The explosion of Nemrut volcano led the formation of the largest lake in Turkey; Van and the deepest lake. You may go for outdoor sports such as trekking or hunting in the mountains surrounding it, especially Mount Suphan, the second highest mountain in Turkey after Mount Ararat. Alternatively you may head for on the beach, or visit the Urartian sites and Turkish cultural centers. The islands on the lake are also interesting, most of them housing many monasteries and churches. The most important of these is the Akdamar Island with its 10th century church of Holy Cross. The church is now restored as a museum and its richly decorated walls have Old Testament relieves. Urartus, Armenians, Kurds, Arabians, Romans, Seljuks, Ottomans, Byzantines all met on this gorgeous land.

The old town of Van was burned by Ottoman forces in 1915 as they retreated before a Russian army which had invaded Ottoman territory in support of Armenian revolutionaries. The Russians held the town until 1917, when the Russian Empire itself suffered revolution and collapse.

The modern city of Van grew up 5 km (3 miles) inland from the lakeshore and the Rock of Van during the 20th century, with wide boulevards and town planning. Because it has the best hotels, restaurants, transportation and other services, Van is the best base for explorations of the region.

Van is an important stop on my Recommended Itinerary of Eastern Turkey. It’s a long way from western Turkey by bus or car, and an even longer trip by train, so if you’re coming directly you’ll want to fly. Turkish Airlines has a daily flight from Istanbul, and two from Ankara.