Travelling with a roof tent in Sardis: Discovering ancient treasures of Türkiye

The historic city of Sardis in western Turkey offers travelers a fascinating journey back in time. As the former capital of the Lydian Empire, it is home to impressive ruins that bear witness to a turbulent history. Alexandre and his family explored this cultural gem with their Isuzu pickup and two Tanami Plus roof tents . Gordigear enabled this family of four to have an unforgettable adventure by offering the option to customize the tents - one opening sideways and one opening backwards. This flexible setup ensured optimal comfort during their tour of discovery through the historic sites.

This is what our customer says about Sardes

"Impressions of Sardis in Turkey. Alexandre sent us these photos of Sardis, Turkey." *Images and/or text were provided by Alexandre Andrieu.*

Sardis: A historical jewel in the Turkish landscape

Sardes, also known as Sardis, is one of the most important archaeological sites in Turkey. The ancient city is located about 90 kilometers east of Izmir at the foot of the Tmolos Mountains. As the former capital of the Lydian Empire, it was an important trading center and is considered the birthplace of the world's first coinage. The impressive remains include a majestic Temple of Artemis, a Roman gymnasium, a Byzantine church and a well-preserved synagogue. These architectural testimonies from different eras make Sardes a true open-air museum.

Exploring with a pickup truck and roof tents

A robust Isuzu pickup truck proved to be the ideal vehicle for this exploration. The combination of off-road capability and load capacity makes such pickup trucks perfect for trips off the beaten track. Before you go on tour with a roof tent, however, be sure to find out about the roof load of your vehicle. Take into account both the dynamic roof load while driving and the static roof load when stationary. Don't forget to include the weight of the roof rack. Special care must be taken when loading, as excessive weight can not only affect the handling but also cause damage to the vehicle.

The perfect camping equipment for Sardis and the surrounding area

For exploring historic sites like Sardis , Tanami Plus rooftop tents offer significant advantages. These sturdy pop-up roof tents can be set up and taken down quickly, which is particularly useful when changing locations frequently. For travelers who plan to stay in one place for a longer period of time, upgrading to a hard-shell rooftop tent might be a good idea. These offer additional comfort and increased resistance to the elements.

Additional comfort through additional equipment

A trip through Turkey can bring extreme weather conditions - from intense heat to sudden rain showers. For additional protection and living comfort, we recommend supplementing the basic equipment with a vehicle awning . This creates a shady outdoor area, perfect for shared meals or as a place to retreat in the midday heat. A practical shower tent can also significantly increase travel comfort, especially in regions with limited infrastructure.

Sights around Sardis

The region around Sardis offers numerous other attractions. The following highlights are in the immediate vicinity:

• The Pactolos River with its legendary gold deposits
• The impressive Tmolos mountain with hiking opportunities and spectacular views
• The hot springs of Salihli, ideal for relaxation after long exploration tours
• Nearby Manisa with its Ottoman heritage
• Lake Gygea (Marmara Gölü) with its rich birdlife

Practical travel tips for Turkey with roof tents

When traveling through Turkey with roof tents, there are a few important points to consider. The best times to travel are spring and autumn, when temperatures are pleasant and the tourist hotspots are less crowded. Wild camping is not permitted by law in Turkey, but is often tolerated in remote locations. Nevertheless, we recommend using official campsites or obtaining permission from property owners in advance. Strict rules to protect archaeological treasures apply, particularly in historical sites such as Sardis.

Driving a pickup truck off the main roads can be challenging. Watch out for rough roads and gravel paths, especially during the rainy season. Always carry plenty of water and spare parts, and check local conditions before embarking on off-road adventures.

Discover the freedom of roof tent travel

The impressive experiences of Alexandre and his family in Sardis show how rooftop tent travel can combine cultural immersion with adventure. Our robust products are specially designed to offer explorers like you maximum flexibility and comfort - whether in the Turkish heat or other extreme conditions. Thanks to our worldwide spare parts guarantee, you can rely on reliable support even in remote regions. Start your own adventure and experience the fascinating combination of historical wealth and untouched nature that Turkey has to offer. Discover our range now and find the perfect equipment for your next trip!