City of Side: Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village

The City of Side in Turkey offers a captivating excursion that showcases the country’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can embark on a scenic boat trip across the largest underground lake, exploring the stunning stalactites and limestone formations within Altinbesik Cave. In the nearby Ormana Village, travelers can enjoy traditional life, strolling through picturesque stone houses, savoring local cuisine, and interacting with friendly residents, all set against a backdrop of serene mountain vistas. This unique experience promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to uncover Turkey’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• Altinbesik Cave, located near Side, features Turkey’s largest underground lake and captivating limestone formations accessible via a 20-minute boat tour.
• The tour includes a visit to the picturesque stone houses and unique ‘button’ architecture of Avasun (Laurel Village) and Ünlü (Button Houses).
• Ormana Village, where the tour includes a delicious local lunch, is home to the 650-year-old Sarıhacılar village mosque showcasing traditional Ottoman architecture.
• The tour offers an immersive experience in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Side region, with a knowledgeable local guide.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments due to uneven terrain and navigation of the Altinbesik Cave.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This day excursion to Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village in Side, Turkey, is priced at ₺3,780 per person and lasts 8 hours, with pickup included from the Side area hotels.

Travelers can choose between private or small group options, available in both German and English.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

While drinks and personal expenses aren’t included, the package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, a 20-minute boat trip to Altinbesik Cave, and a professional local guide to lead the group through the stunning natural landscapes and cultural sites.

Itinerary Highlights

The excursion visits Avasun (Laurel Village) and Ünlü (Button Houses), offering breathtaking views at approximately 1,200 meters elevation of the Green Canyon, Green Lake, and Manavgat. Next, visitors explore the awe-inspiring Altinbesik Cave, home to Turkey’s largest underground lake, with a 20-minute boat trip. Lunch is served at a local restaurant in Ormana, followed by a tour of the 650-year-old Sarıhacılar village mosque. The itinerary provides a well-rounded experience, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Highlights	Description
Avasun and Ünlü	Picturesque villages with stunning views
Altinbesik Cave	Turkey’s largest underground lake
Ormana Lunch	Authentic local cuisine
Sarıhacılar Mosque	650-year-old Ottoman architectural marvel

Included Services

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off in the Side area, a delicious lunch, and a 20-minute boat trip to explore the captivating Altinbesik Cave.

Plus, visitors benefit from the expertise of a professional local guide and transportation in an air-conditioned minibus.

However, drinks and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.

This ensures a seamless and immersive experience for participants, allowing them to fully focus on the breathtaking natural wonders and cultural insights without having to worry about logistics.

The inclusion of these key services contributes to the overall value and convenience of the tour, making it an attractive option for travelers seeking an enriching day excursion in the region.

Customer Feedback

In the ‘City of Side: Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village’ tour, reviewers have consistently praised the experience for its exceptional value, with a 4.4/5 overall rating based on 54 reviews.

The tour’s standout features include:

• High marks for the knowledgeable and engaging local guide

• Positive feedback on the quality and authenticity of the included lunch

• Appreciation for the absence of any high-pressure sales tactics

• Suitability for families, with beautiful scenery and an informative experience

• Strong ratings for the tour’s transportation, with a 4.5/5 score

Customers have noted that the tour offers a well-curated, immersive glimpse into the natural and cultural wonders of the region, providing excellent value for money.

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Accessibility

This tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as the emphasis is on enjoying nature and cultural experiences without feeling rushed or pressured.

The excursion involves traversing uneven terrain and navigating through the Altinbesik Cave, which may pose challenges for those with limited mobility.

However, the tour is well-suited for able-bodied individuals who can comfortably explore the stunning natural landscapes and historic sites.

Visitors can expect to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region, without the burden of a hectic pace or high-pressure sales tactics.

The tour’s focus on providing an informative and leisurely experience makes it an appealing option for those seeking an authentic glimpse into Turkey’s captivating countryside.

Visiting Avasun and Ürünlü

Visitors begin their excursion by exploring the charming villages of Avasun (also known as Laurel Village) and Ürünlü (home to the captivating ‘Button Houses’), both offering a glimpse into the region’s traditional way of life. These quaint settlements showcase:

• Picturesque stone houses surrounded by lush laurel forests

• Intricate architecture featuring the unique ‘button’ design, where protruding stones create a distinctive pattern

• Opportunities to interact with locals and learn about their daily routines and centuries-old customs

• Stunning mountain vistas that provide the perfect backdrop for photography

• A serene atmosphere that allows visitors to enjoy the area’s rich cultural heritage

This exploration sets the stage for the upcoming visits to Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village, providing a holistic understanding of the region’s natural and human elements.

Exploring Altinbesik Cave

Reaching the heart of the tour, visitors embark on a 20-minute boat ride across the mesmerizing waters of Altinbesik Cave, home to Turkey’s largest underground lake. Carved by centuries of natural erosion, this captivating cavern system beckons explorers with its serene, mirror-like surface and towering limestone formations. As they glide through the tranquil waters, guests are treated to a breathtaking display of stalactites, stalagmites, and otherworldly rock structures that have taken millennia to form.

Feature	Description
Subterranean Lake	Spanning over 3,000 square meters, the underground lake is the largest in Turkey and a highlight of the Altinbesik Cave experience.
Limestone Formations	The cave is a veritable symphony of stalactites, stalagmites, and other limestone structures, each one a testament to the power of natural processes.
Boat Tour	The 20-minute boat ride allows visitors to fully enjoy the cave’s captivating beauty and serene atmosphere.

Touring Sarıhacılar Village

After exploring the mesmerizing Altinbesik Cave, the tour takes visitors to the charming Sarihacılar village, where they can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region. The highlight is a visit to the 650-year-old Ottoman mosque, a testament to the area’s history.

Visitors can also wander through the quaint streets, admiring the traditional architecture. They have the opportunity to learn about the village’s long-standing crafts, such as basket weaving and pottery making.

Plus, guests can visit a family-owned olive oil mill and sample the locally produced olive oil. Interacting with friendly locals allows visitors to gain insights into their daily lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour package does not include bringing your own food and drinks. Lunch at a local restaurant is provided, but any other personal expenses, such as additional food and drinks, are not included in the tour price.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour company doesn’t offer any discounts specifically for children or seniors. However, they do have private or small group options available which may be more affordable for families or groups. Travelers should inquire about pricing details when booking.

How Long Is the Drive From Side to the Altinbesik Cave?

The tour itinerary doesn’t specify the exact driving time, but it’s noted that the excursion lasts 8 hours total, including the visit to Altinbesik Cave. Travelers can expect a scenic drive of approximately 1-2 hours each way from the Side area to the cave.

Can I Opt-Out of the Boat Trip and Explore the Cave on Foot?

Yes, travelers can opt-out of the 20-minute boat trip to Altinbesik Cave. They’ll still be able to explore the cave on foot and experience the largest underground lake in Turkey during their tour.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Mentioned in the Tour Details?

The tour details don’t mention any additional fees or costs beyond what’s included. The price quoted covers the key services like transportation, lunch, and the boat trip to the cave.

Recap

The City of Side’s excursion to Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Turkey’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

From the underground lake to the traditional stone houses, this tour provides a captivating glimpse into the country’s diverse landscapes and customs.

Whether seeking adventure or culture, this excursion is a must-see for those exploring the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: