City of Side: Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village

Explore the City of Side with a day trip that combines natural wonders, cultural sights, and authentic Turkish village life. For $45 per person, this 8-hour tour offers visits to Altinbesik Cave, known for its largest underground lake in Turkey, along with charming stops like Ormana Village and Button Houses. Led by a professional local guide, the journey promises scenic views, delicious local food, and a chance to experience rural Turkey away from busy tourist spots.

This tour is flexible, with options for a shared group or a private experience. It starts with hotel pickup in Side and takes you through impressive landscapes, historic villages, and natural marvels. Keep in mind, the tour involves some walking and hiking, so suitable footwear is recommended, and it is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments.

Key Points

• Visit the largest underground lake in Turkey inside Altinbesik Cave with a 20-minute boat trip.
• Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant in Ormana Village.
• See the famous Button Houses in Ürünlü Village and relax at a local café.
• Hike through scenic villages and natural parks, with views of Green Canyon, Green Lake, and Manavgat River.
• Experience rural Turkish culture and architecture, including a 650-year-old Ottoman mosque.
• Tour duration is 8 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transportation in Side

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in the Side area, making the day convenient and comfortable. The transportation is in an air-conditioned minibus driven by a professional local guide, ensuring a smooth journey through scenic landscapes.

After pickup, the group heads toward Avasun (“laurel village”), where the tour introduces you to traditional village life. The transport allows for ample time at each stop, with views of the Taurus Mountains providing a stunning backdrop.

Visiting Avasun: Laurel Village and Scenic Views

Your first stop is Avasun, also called laurel village. It offers a glimpse into authentic rural life with its traditional houses and peaceful streets. From there, the tour ascends to around 1,200 meters, where spectacular vistas of Green Canyon, Green Lake, and Manavgat are visible.

The panoramic views from this elevated point provide excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the area’s natural beauty. This part of the trip emphasizes the contrast between lush nature and the quiet charm of mountain villages.

Exploring Ürünlü: The Village of Button Houses

Next, the tour visits Ürünlü, an authentic Turkish village famous for its handmade Button Houses. The Button Houses are a point of local pride and curiosity, constructed with unique craftsmanship that visitors find fascinating.

Here, visitors can relax at a local café before heading to the national park, where they will sip natural tea—a simple but meaningful local tradition. This stop offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the countryside ambiance before the adventure inside the cave.

Inside Altinbesik Cave: The Gold Cradle

The highlight of the trip is the visit to Altinbesik Cave, also called “Gold Cradle Cave”. This natural wonder features Turkey’s largest underground lake, which you will explore during a 20-minute boat trip inside the cave.

The boat ride is a smooth, scenic experience that highlights the cave’s impressive natural formations. The underground lake creates a mystical atmosphere, and the entire experience is designed to inspire awe at the power of nature.

It’s important to note that there is no swim break in the cave, so visitors should be prepared for walking and boat riding without water activities. The cave’s cool, humid environment adds to its sense of mystery and beauty.

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Lunch in Ormana Village

Following the cave exploration, the tour stops for a delicious Turkish lunch at a local restaurant in Ormana village. The meal provides a taste of regional cuisine, offering a satisfying break after a busy morning of sightseeing.

The restaurant setting is simple yet authentic, allowing you to enjoy traditional dishes in a relaxed environment. The emphasis on local food ensures a genuine culinary experience, complementing the cultural highlights of the day.

Discovering Sarhaclar and Ottoman Heritage

In the afternoon, the tour takes visitors to Sarhaclar village, home to a 650-year-old Ottoman mosque. Exploring this historic site offers insight into the area’s architectural and cultural history.

The visit combines a sense of history with the peaceful rural setting, allowing for reflection on the legacy of Ottoman craftsmanship and community life that persists in the region.

The Practicalities and What to Bring

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, the boat trip inside Altinbesik Cave, and a professional guide who speaks German and English. The group size can be flexible, with options for shared or private tours.

Travelers should bring an umbrella for protection against unexpected weather and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and hiking on village streets and uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the walking involved.

Handling Reviews and Expectations

While the majority of feedback emphasizes beautiful scenery and cultural sites, some reviews mention delays in pickup and crowd levels at certain stops. One reviewer notes that parts of the experience, like the Button Houses and mosque visit, can feel somewhat mass-produced, but the overall experience remains positive for most.

The price of $45 offers good value for the variety of sights, including the boat trip, lunch, and guided commentary. Tour timings are flexible, so checking availability for your preferred date is recommended.

Final Thoughts on the Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village Tour

This day trip provides a balanced mix of natural wonders, rural charm, and historic sites. The Altinbesik Cave’s underground lake is a standout highlight, offering a memorable experience with its boat ride and impressive formations.

The stops at Button Houses and Ottoman mosque add cultural depth, while the scenic views from the mountain lookout point make the journey visually rewarding. The lunch in Ormana completes the experience with authentic regional flavors.

Suitable for those interested in nature, culture, and scenic landscapes, this tour makes for an engaging day outside of Side’s busy tourist areas. It offers a good balance of guided exploration and free time, perfect for travelers seeking an authentic rural adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who can walk and hike comfortably will enjoy the scenic stops and the boat trip inside the cave.

How long is the boat trip inside Altinbesik Cave?
The boat ride inside the cave lasts approximately 20 minutes.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included, so bring your own water or purchase beverages during stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes suitable for walking and hiking are recommended. An umbrella might be helpful if rain is expected.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility impairments?
No, the tour involves some walking and hiking, making it unsuitable for travelers with mobility issues.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch?
The provided information does not specify dietary options, so it’s advisable to request special arrangements in advance if needed.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides speak German and English.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned minibus transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $45 per person.

This tour promises a rewarding day with scenic views, authentic cultural sights, and natural beauty, making it a well-rounded choice for explorers in Side.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby