5th to 17th  May 2009

This etapa enables you to experience a truly rare insight into the worlds of ancient Persia and the Ottoman Empire. From the intriguing city of Tehran, through the heart of the Caucasus to the stunning city of Istanbul the entire journey is tinged with a timeless sense of adventure and discovery.

Tehran itself is fascinating with an incredible location that has the Caspian Sea on one side and the Elburz Mountains on the other. It is worth spending a little time here to wander the streets, take in the bazaar, enjoy a qalyan (water pipe) in one of the many teahouses, visit the museums and perhaps even watch some wrestling €“ the favourite sport of Iranians.

Iran is full of incredible history, culture and contrasts and a real joy to discover. If you can make the time it is worth heading south in order to visit Esfahan an age old centre for trade, which contains some of the country´s finest architecture including the fabulous Emam Mosque. The former Persian capital of Shiraz and the palace complex at Persepolis are also well worth a detour, but be careful not to forget that ultimately your route lies to the north. 

The thriving city of Tabriz is home to Iran´s oldest and largest bazaar and be prepared, you will be expected to haggle for the bargains that you acquire here!   Also in this north western territory are the ruins of the Temple of Soleiman set high in the hills close to Zanjan. Near Qazvin are the mysterious Castles of the Assassins named after the religious cult known as The Assassins that built them. 

Iran´s northern border connects with Turkey, Azerbaijan and Armenia. Rarely visited during the Soviet era, these states are now gradually revealing their rich cultural heritage to the more intrepid explorers. Lake Sevan, in Armenia is some way from the border, but has a stunning mountain setting and amazing fresh water fish to reward your endeavours.  

Do not underestimate just how big Turkey is, from Iran in the East to Greece in the West it really is the extended gateway between Central Asia and Europe. You can either travel along the beautiful Black Sea Coast, with its pretty wooden houses and fertile land, famous for producing cherries, tea and chestnuts, or you can thread a route through the Caucasus Mountains, experiencing hilltop palaces, walled cities and the Ataturk Dam. Here you will also find Sanliurfa the reputed birthplace of the Prophet Abraham and Hattusas the former capital of the Hittite Empire. 

Turkey´s Mediterranean coast is dotted with remains of the Roman and Byzantine Empires. Pergamon, Aphrodisias, Termessos and Pamukkale are all worth visiting, but you must not miss Ephesus, site of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis. 

However, be sure to leave enough time to properly explore Istanbul. This city really is incredible, with a wealth of history and culture almost unrivalled in the rest of the world. The Blue Mosque, the Church of Santa Sofia, the Harem of the Sultan of Constantinople and the Topkapi Palace should all be on your list, not to mention the main bazaar.