A world away from Istanbul, the rugged region of eastern Turkey is now opening up to travellers after years of instability. Here visitors can see churches and entire cities hewn from rock, fairytale castles on looming crags and fantasy palaces built by power-crazed Anatolian chieftains. Turkey expert Diana Darke provides all the essential practical advice on trekking and mountaineering; wildlife and bird watching; and, accommodation and eating options. Bradt's Eastern Turkey is the only guidebook dedicated to this fascinating region and includes first-hand accounts about everything from soaking in thermal pools to the ascent of Turkey's highest peak, Mount Ararat. Turkish-speaking Diana Darke has specialised in Turkey for more than 25 years. She is studying for an MA in Islamic architecture and is the author of Bradt's Syria, North Cyprus and Oman.