City of Side: Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village

If you’re looking for a day filled with stunning scenery, fascinating underground wonders, and a taste of authentic Turkish village life, then the Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village tour might just be your perfect match. This 8-hour experience, offered by Seven Tours, combines nature, history, and local culture into one well-rounded package. With a mix of optional private or shared group options, it caters to those seeking flexibility and a genuine adventure away from the busy tourist spots.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances the thrill of exploring Turkey’s largest underground lake with relaxing moments in picturesque villages. It’s clear that the focus isn’t just on ticking boxes but on giving you a real sense of place and natural beauty. That said, the tour’s pace and some of its mass-tourism aspects could be a consideration for travelers craving a more exclusive or seamless experience. Overall, it’s best suited for curious travelers eager to see diverse landscapes and enjoy cultural encounters in one day.

Key Points

• Stunning underground lake in the Altinbesik Cave makes this experience unforgettable.
• Beautiful panoramic views from the high points, including Green Canyon and the Taurus Mountains.
• Cultural stops like the Button Houses of Ürünlü and the Ottoman mosque in Sarhaclar add authentic local flavor.
• Flexible tour options available, including private tours for more intimacy and personalized attention.
• Great value at $45, considering the included boat trip, lunch, and guided insights.
• Not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers due to some walking and hiking involved.

A Deep Dive Into the Day Tour Experience

Starting the Journey: Hotel Pickup and First Stops

Your adventure begins with hotel pickup in the Side area, usually in an air-conditioned minibus with a professional local guide. This transportation setup already sets the tone — comfortable, relaxed, and ready for a full day of exploration. The guide, often fluent in both English and German, will be your friendly narrator, sharing insights into each stop and answering questions along the way.

The first destination is the quaint village of Avasun, also called “laurel village.” It’s a calm start, offering a glimpse into rural Turkish life, with lush greenery and traditional stone houses. We loved the way the guide described the area’s history, making it more than just a photo stop.

Scenic High-Altitude Viewpoints

Next, the bus climbs to approximately 1,200 meters, rewarding you with sweeping views of the Green Canyon, Green Lake, and the expansive Manavgat region. These vistas are a highlight, offering perfect photo opportunities and the chance to appreciate the landscape’s diversity. The air feels crisp, and the calming natural scenery sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Ürünlü and the Iconic Button Houses

After soaking in the views, you’ll visit Ürünlü, famed for its hand-made Button Houses. These tiny, uniquely decorated homes are a charming throwback to local craftsmanship. You’ll have time to relax in a cozy cafe and perhaps chat with locals. The guide might mention the craftsmanship involved, adding depth to the visit.

You’ll also stop at a local national park to enjoy natural tea, a simple yet delightful experience that underscores Turkey’s love for tea in scenic settings. This part of the tour emphasizes the authentic local lifestyle, making the entire experience more meaningful.

Exploring the Altinbesik Cave

The highlight of the day is Altinbesik Cave, often called the “Gold Cradle Cave.” It’s home to Turkey’s largest underground lake, a sight that truly impresses. The cave’s interior is dark, cool, and mysterious, but the boat trip across the underground lake offers a surreal experience. The boat ride lasts around 20 minutes, during which you can marvel at the cavern’s natural formations and sheer size.

Visitors have noted that the cave is quite accessible but should be approached with comfortable shoes since there are some walking and hiking between the village streets and the cave entrance. One reviewer mentioned that although there’s no swimming break in the cave, the boat trip alone provides enough wonder.

Lunch in Ormana Village

After exploring the cave, the group heads to Ormana, where a local restaurant serves a hearty Turkish lunch. The meal typically includes traditional dishes, giving you a taste of regional flavors at an excellent value considering the overall experience. It’s also a great chance to relax and share impressions with fellow travelers.

Final Cultural Stop: Sarhaclar Village and Ottoman Mosque

Before heading back to Side, the tour visits Sahraclar, a village with a 650-year-old Ottoman mosque. This historical site adds a layer of cultural richness to the day, allowing you to appreciate Turkey’s architectural heritage in a peaceful setting. The guide may share stories about the mosque’s history, enhancing your understanding.

Practicalities and What to Expect

Tour Logistics and Value

For $45, this tour covers a lot — transportation, guide services, boat trip, lunch, and multiple sightseeing stops. The air-conditioned minibus ensures comfortable travel, and the professional local guide enriches each part of the trip with insights. The tour duration of about 8 hours means you’ll have a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

Some reviews note the tour is well-organized but also mentions that it can sometimes feel like a mass-tourism experience. The shared group option is perfect if you’re on a budget or enjoy meeting fellow travelers, while the private tour provides more privacy and flexibility.

What to Bring and Considerations

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes due to some walking and hiking involved, especially around village streets and the cave entrance. An umbrella might be useful if the weather is sunny or rainy.

While the tour is largely accessible, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments because of the walking involved. Also, note that pets are not allowed in the cave or villages.

Tips for a Better Experience

• Camera: Bring yours to capture the stunning views and cave interior.
• Water and snacks: While lunch is provided, carrying some water or snacks can keep you energized.
• Arrive early: To maximize time at each stop and avoid missing out on views or photo opportunities.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many travelers have expressed how stunning the underground lake inside Altinbesik Cave is, with one noting it’s truly inspiring. Others have appreciated the chance to see local craftsmanship in Ürünlü’s Button Houses, describing it as a charming, authentic experience.

However, some reviewers have pointed out that the experience can feel mass-produced, especially at the Button Houses, with one mentioning the constant yala yala, a Turkish cheer, that sometimes detracts from the quieter, more genuine moments. Plus, the late pickup in one review was an inconvenience, so planning for a slightly early arrival might be wise.

The tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of the region’s natural beauty and local culture. It’s a value-packed day, especially considering the boat trip and lunch are included in the price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day tour suits adventurous travelers eager to see Turkey’s underground marvels and enjoy panoramic mountain views. It’s perfect for culture enthusiasts who want a taste of rural life, with visits to villages and historical sites. If you’re on a budget but want a comprehensive experience, this tour offers excellent value.

Those who prefer more personalized or exclusive experiences might find the mass-tourism aspect a bit less appealing, but overall, the variety and natural beauty make it a compelling choice.

The Sum Up

The Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village tour offers a balanced mix of natural wonders, cultural insights, and scenic views, all packed into a manageable 8-hour day. The highlight — Turkey’s largest underground lake — is truly a sight to behold and makes the trip worth every penny. The visits to local villages, Button Houses, and historical sites add depth and authenticity, giving you a well-rounded experience in a rural Turkish setting.

While it’s not without its mass-tourism moments, most travelers will find the value and variety of this tour make it a worthwhile addition to your Side itinerary. The tour is particularly suited for those curious about Turkey’s landscape and culture who want a full, scenic, and memorable day out.

If you love stunning views, underground marvels, and authentic village life, this tour could be the highlight of your trip. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, your camera, and a spirit of adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in the Side area, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long is the boat trip in Altinbesik Cave?
The boat trip inside the cave lasts approximately 20 minutes, allowing you to experience the cavern’s underground lake from the water.

Can I do this tour privately?
Yes, there is an option for a private tour, which might be more suitable if you prefer a more intimate experience or customized schedule.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, an umbrella if needed, and your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, and pets are not allowed in the cave or villages.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is included at a local restaurant in Ormana.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience lasts around 8 hours, with starting times varying based on availability.

What kind of guide will I have?
A professional local guide fluent in English and German will accompany you, providing insights and answering questions.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How does the pricing compare?
At $45 per person, the tour offers good value considering the transportation, guide, boat trip, lunch, and multiple sightseeing stops included.

This detailed exploration should help you decide if the Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village tour fits your travel style. Whether you’re after natural beauty, cultural sights, or simply a change of scenery from the usual tourist trail, it’s a day that promises memorable moments.