Side Altinbesik Cave And Ormana Village Tour With Boat Tour

Discover the Side Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village Tour with Boat Trip

For those seeking a full-day adventure that combines natural wonders with authentic local culture, the Side Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village Tour offers an engaging experience. Priced at $45 per person, this tour spans 6 to 7 hours, starting with hotel pickup and ending with a return to your accommodation. It is designed for travelers eager to explore Taurus Mountains, visit Europe’s third-largest underground lake, and enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine. The tour’s well-rounded itinerary ensures a balance of sightseeing, culture, and relaxation, making it a worthwhile choice for most visitors to Side.

While the tour covers several highlights, it is especially suitable for those interested in natural formations and local village life. With all entry fees, lunch, and transportation included, guests appreciate the good value. However, the overall experience depends on weather conditions and the group’s pacing, so flexibility is advisable.

Key Points

• Visit the Altinbesik Cave, home to Turkey’s largest underground lake and Europe’s third-largest.
• Enjoy a 30-minute boat ride inside the cave on inflatable boats with a capacity of 10 people.
• Explore Ormana Village, including a traditional restaurant and the famous Buttoned Houses, built without cement.
• Meet a local family and gain insight into Turkish rural life.
• Visit a 300-year-old mosque with welcoming local hospitality.
• Includes all entry fees, lunch, and round-trip transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off.

Starting from Side: Comfortable Transportation and Scenic Stops

The tour begins early in the morning with hotel pickup in Side. A comfortable bus takes travelers through the Taurus Mountains, offering scenic views along the way. During the drive, there are stops for photo opportunities and a visit to a traditional coffee shop in a local village. The transportation setup ensures a relaxed start without the hassle of organizing your own transfers.

This initial phase sets a leisurely tone, giving guests a chance to appreciate the landscape before reaching the natural and cultural highlights of the day.

Visiting Altinbesik National Park and Europe’s Third-Largest Underground Lake

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Altinbesik Magarasi, located within Altinbesik National Park. The Golden Cradle Cave features natural bridges and an underground lake renowned as Turkey’s largest and Europe’s third largest. The steady 16°C temperature inside the cave ensures comfort year-round.

A 30-minute inflatable boat ride allows exploration of the underground lake’s stunning natural formations from the water. The inflatable boats accommodate up to 10 people, providing an intimate experience of the cave’s depths. Inside, visitors observe natural bridges and unique geological features, making it a memorable highlight.

The cave’s natural beauty and the boat trip offer a perfect blend of adventure and awe-inspiring scenery. The included entry fee simplifies planning, making this a straightforward and hassle-free experience.

Lunch at a Traditional Ormana Village Restaurant

After exploring the cave, the tour moves to Ormana Village for a lunch break at a local restaurant. The menu features stewed fish, grilled chicken, or Turkish pizza, accompanied by yogurt and fresh salad. The meal is described as very good, often surpassing expectations for included tour meals.

The restaurant is situated at the backyard of a Buttoned House, a traditional structure built without cement or mortar. Visitors can tour over 300 houses of this architectural style, gaining a glimpse into authentic Turkish rural building techniques. The experience combines culinary delight with cultural appreciation of regional architecture.

Exploring the Architectural Charm of Buttoned Houses

Following lunch, guests visit the Buttoned Houses in Ormana Village. These over 300 houses are notable for their unique construction materials and architectural style. The lack of cement or mortar highlights traditional building methods, making this a fascinating stop for architecture enthusiasts.

The visit offers an opportunity for photos and a deeper understanding of village craftsmanship. It is a peaceful, picturesque setting that provides a break from the more active parts of the tour.

Visiting the Historic 300-Year-Old Mosque

Next, the tour includes a visit to a mosque in Ormana that is over 300 years old. This sacred space is open to visitors, and the hospitality of the locals shines through as they graciously open their doors. The mosque adds a historical dimension to the day, illustrating the long-standing religious and community traditions of the area.

This stop lasts about 30 minutes and offers a tranquil atmosphere to appreciate local religious architecture and history.

Ending the Village Excursion at Sarhaclar

The final stop in Ormana is at the village of Sarcahlar. Here, the group can enjoy the village ambiance before beginning the bus ride back to Side. The drive provides a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

By the afternoon, guests arrive back at their hotels, full of beautiful memories and unique experiences in the Taurus Mountains.

Practical Details: Logistics and Group Size

The tour departs at 8:30 am, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. It caters to up to 25 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size that balances social interaction and personal space. The guided service is described as informative, with some reviews praising guides like Umit and Yücel for their knowledge and friendly manner.

Transport is arranged in a comfortable bus, allowing for a relaxed journey through scenic landscapes. The walks and stops are generally manageable, though the overall pace can feel long, particularly on hot days or if combined with long drives.

The Tour’s Value and Limitations

All necessary entry fees—including the Altinbesik National Park and cave boat ride—are included. The lunch and transportation are also covered, making the $45 price a reasonable deal for the full-day experience.

However, some reviews note that the cave visit can be brief, and the overall time spent in transit may seem long for certain guests. Plus, the tour language may be primarily in German, with some English commentary, so travelers with limited German should plan accordingly.

The experience is weather-dependent, with cancellations possible if conditions are poor, but a full refund is available if that occurs.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who appreciate natural wonders and cultural heritage. It suits those interested in underground lakes, traditional Turkish architecture, and village life. Families with children should consider their patience for longer drives and brief cave visits, but the overall pace is manageable.

People who enjoy guided experiences with all-in-one pricing will find this tour offers great value. It also appeals to those wanting to combine nature exploration with culinary delights in a scenic, rural setting.

The Sum Up: A Well-Balanced Day in the Taurus Mountains

The Side Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village Tour delivers a comprehensive glimpse of the region’s natural beauty and local traditions. The highlight is undeniably the underground lake within Altinbesik Cave, complemented by a boating adventure that many find enchanting.

The tour’s inclusion of cultural visits, such as the Buttoned Houses and historic mosque, enriches the day beyond just natural sights. The lunch at a traditional village restaurant is a notable aspect, often praised for its quality.

While some may find the long drives and brief cave visit less satisfying, most will appreciate the value for money and the opportunity to see diverse facets of rural Turkey. This tour appeals most to curious travelers eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots in Side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour.

What is the price of this tour?
The cost is $45 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours.

What are the main highlights?
The Altinbesik Cave, underground lake, boat ride, Ormana Village, its Buttoned Houses, and historic mosque.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, some water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially for outdoor and walking parts.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider the long drives and brief cave visit for younger children.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

How do I book this tour?
Most bookings are made 13 days in advance, and confirmation is received immediately upon booking.