Side:Golden Cradle Cavern & Ormana Village Tour

Explore the Unique Landscape of Antalya Province on a Full-Day Tour

The Side: Golden Cradle Cavern & Ormana Village Tour offers a compelling mix of natural marvels and cultural sights in Turkey’s Antalya Province. Priced at $57 per person and lasting about 8 hours, this tour takes you from the comfort of hotel pickup to explore Altnbeik Cave, the largest underground lake in Turkey, and the charming buttoned houses of Ormana Village. The tour is perfect for travelers interested in natural beauty, traditional architecture, and scenic mountain landscapes.

While the tour’s pace is generally smooth, it’s worth noting that it involves some walking and outdoor activities, so comfortable shoes are recommended. This experience suits those wanting a full day of sightseeing that balances natural wonders with cultural insights, all with guided commentary in English, German, or Turkish.

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Key Points

• Price & Duration: $57 per person for an 8-hour tour
• Highlights: Visit Altnbeik Cave with its underground lake, explore Ormana Village, and enjoy panoramic views of Green Canyon
• Cultural Stops: Discover the buttoned stone houses in Ürünlü Village and walk around Akseki
• Activities: Boat cruise inside Altnbeik Cave, sightseeing at scenic viewpoints, and guided village tours
• Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, guiding, air-conditioned transportation
• Entrance Fees: 10 Turkish Lira for Altnbeik Cave and National Park
• Not suitable for: People with mobility impairments

Starting the Day with Hotel Pickup and Scenic Drives

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Side around 9:00 AM, with the exact time confirmed after booking. Travelers are transported comfortably in an air-conditioned bus through the scenic countryside. The first stop is Yaylaalan Village, perched 500 meters above sea level, offering a glimpse of local village life and lush landscapes.

The journey continues with a breathtaking viewpoint at 1000 meters altitude, providing spectacular panoramas of Green Canyon. This is an ideal spot for photos and for taking in the expansive views of the mountains and river below. Nearby, a tea break in Ürünlü Village allows visitors to relax while admiring the buttoned stone houses, which are a distinctive feature of this charming village.

Visiting Altnbeik Cave, the Nation’s Largest Underground Lake

A highlight of this tour is the exploration of Altnbeik Cave, also called the Golden Cradle Cave. It is renowned for its massive underground lake, which visitors can admire during a 20-minute boat trip inside the cave. The boat cruise provides close-up views of natural formations and a sense of wonder at this underground wonder.

The entry fee of 10 Turkish Lira covers access to the cave and the national park area. Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the spectacular scenery inside the cave. The entire exploration inside the cave typically lasts around 20 minutes, but the overall visit includes walking and exploring various natural formations.

Discovering Ormana Village and Traditional Buttoned Houses

After the cave visit, the tour makes a stop at Ormana Village for about one hour. Here, travelers explore the buttoned houses, which are notable for their unique stone facades decorated with buttons or protruding stones. The guided tour of the village offers insights into the local architecture and traditions that have been preserved over generations.

This cultural segment provides a glimpse into rural life, with the opportunity to walk through narrow streets and observe the village’s authentic charm. The experienced guides share stories about the heritage and craftsmanship behind these distinctive houses, making it a meaningful part of the day.

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Lunch in a Local Restaurant

A delicious lunch is included during the tour, typically served in a local restaurant within the national park area. The meal offers a taste of regional cuisine, providing a satisfying break before continuing the sightseeing. The food quality is generally praised, complementing the day’s natural and cultural discoveries.

Scenic Stops and Photo Opportunities in Altınbeşik National Park

Following lunch, the tour visits Altınbeşik National Park for another 20-minute scenic stop. This allows travelers to take photos of the lush landscape surrounding the park, which features towering mountains and scenic valleys. The park’s natural beauty makes it a great spot for brief walks and capturing memorable images of the Turkish countryside.

Boat Cruise Inside Altnbeik Cave and Final Village Walk

The tour concludes with a 30-minute boat cruise inside Altnbeik Cave, providing an immersive experience of the underground lake and natural formations. The boat ride is a highlight for many, offering a peaceful moment amid the impressive underground scenery.

After the cave tour, visitors head to Akseki for about 1.5 hours. Here, they can explore the local area, walk through the village streets, and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere. This stop offers a chance to stretch, photograph, and absorb the rural vibe of the region.

Return Journey and Drop-Off in Side

The return trip takes about 1.5 hours, with drop-offs at the original pickup points: Gündodu, Çolakl, and Side. The tour typically wraps up around 5:00 PM, leaving travelers with plenty of time to relax after a day full of sightseeing and discovery.

Practical Details and Tips for a Smooth Experience

The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward. It’s important to wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing for outdoor exploration. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, as some walking and uneven surfaces are involved.

While all major sights are included, visitors should be aware that entrance fees of 10 Turkish Lira are payable for Altnbeik Cave and the National Park. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views and natural wonders along the way. The tour is available in English, German, and Turkish, with guides providing engaging commentary.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty and cultural insight. Nature lovers will be drawn to the underground lake and scenic viewpoints, while those interested in local architecture will enjoy the buttoned houses of Ürünlü Village. It suits visitors who don’t mind moderate walking and outdoor activities but prefer a well-organized, guided excursion.

Given the 4.8 out of 5 rating from 4 reviews, it’s clear that most participants find the tour offers a beautiful, enriching day. The delicious food, stunning views, and well-paced itinerary contribute to its positive reputation.

Final Thoughts on the Golden Cradle Cavern & Ormana Village Tour

This tour provides a balanced combination of natural wonders and cultural sights in Turkey’s Antalya region. The highlight is undoubtedly Altnbeik Cave’s underground lake, paired with scenic stops at mountain viewpoints and the village’s buttoned houses. The inclusion of lunch and guided commentary makes it a convenient choice for those wanting to explore without the hassle of planning.

The $57 price point offers good value for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering the boat cruise inside the cave and the guided village walk. The experience is most suited to travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration and authentic rural scenery.

This tour stands out as a relaxing yet engaging day trip that highlights some of Turkey’s most distinctive landscapes and traditional architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $57 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 8 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and meals.

What are the main highlights?
Visitors explore Altnbeik Cave and its underground lake, visit Ormana Village with its buttoned houses, and enjoy scenic views of Green Canyon.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a delicious local lunch is part of the tour.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to Altnbeik Cave and National Park (cost 10 TL) are paid separately.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to walking and outdoor activity requirements.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, and Turkish.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

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