City of Side: Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village

City of Side: Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village

If you’re staying in Side and craving a full day of authentic scenery, this tour offers a fascinating mix of underground marvels and scenic mountain views for just $45 per person. Led by local guides, you’ll visit Altinbesik Cave, explore Ormana Village, and enjoy a hearty Turkish lunch. The trip lasts about 8 hours, making it a manageable, well-rounded escape from the busy coastal scene.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience: First, the opportunity to see the largest underground lake in Turkey, which is both breathtaking and a geological wonder. Second, the chance to stroll through Button Houses in Ürünlü, where handmade architecture tells stories of traditional village life. A potential downside is that the tour involves some hiking on village streets—so suitable footwear is a must. This tour suits travelers eager to combine natural beauty with cultural authenticity, especially those interested in scenic views, local villages, and underground caves.

Key Points

Natural Wonders: Visit the country’s largest underground lake in Altinbesik Cave.
Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas from 1,200 meters up, including Green Canyon and Manavgat.
Cultural Charm: Explore historic Button Houses and a 650-year-old Ottoman mosque.
Local Flavors: Savor a delicious Turkish lunch and natural tea in Ormana Village.
Authentic Experience: Hike through village streets, see handmade Button Houses, and experience local life.
Flexible Options: Tour available as shared or private, with hotel pickup included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Your Day Out in Nature and Culture

This tour strikes a good balance between natural spectacle and culture. Starting with hotel pickup in Side, you’ll find yourself swiftly transported into the hills, away from the beach resorts into authentic rural scenery. Your first stop is Avasun, known as “laurel village,” a quiet spot where you can breathe in fresh mountain air and enjoy views of lush greenery.

Next, your journey takes you to about 1,200 meters altitude, where the vistas of Green Canyon, Green Lake, and Manavgat unfold before you. These viewpoints are genuinely stunning, offering sweeping panoramas that make your camera work worthwhile. We loved the way the guide emphasizes the natural beauty—this isn’t just a quick stop; it’s a chance to really take in Turkey’s diverse landscapes.

From there, you’ll visit Ürünlü—a tiny village famous for its hand-made Button Houses. Here, you can relax in a local café and admire the craftsmanship that has preserved this tradition for generations. The tour includes a stop at a local national park, where you can sip on natural tea—an authentic touch that gives you a taste of rural Turkish hospitality.

The highlight for many visitors is the Altinbesik Cave, dubbed the “Gold Cradle Cave,” which houses the largest underground lake in Turkey. The cave’s interior is both impressive and mysterious, with stalactites and stalagmites framing the underground water body. You’ll take a relaxing 20-minute boat ride across this subterranean lake—a unique experience that combines adventure with peacefulness. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the boat trip added a special element of tranquility and wonder.”

After exploring the cave, a delicious Turkish lunch awaits at a local restaurant in Ormana, offering hearty, traditional fare that keeps your energy up. Later, you’ll stroll through Sahraclar village, home to a 650-year-old Ottoman mosque, where history and architecture blend seamlessly.

Finally, the trip winds down with the return to your hotel, filled with new impressions and plenty of photos, especially of the spectacular views and natural formations.

For broader city exploration in Side, we've covered these other tours

What to Expect: Practical Details and Tips

Transport and Comfort: The tour uses an air-conditioned minibus, making the roughly 8-hour day comfortable even under warmer weather. As reviews note, pickup is included from your Side hotel, which saves planning time and effort.

Tour Guide: You’ll be accompanied by a professional local guide speaking either German or English, who will fill you in on the history, geology, and local stories of each site. Having a knowledgeable guide can turn a sightseeing trip into a memorable cultural experience.

Itinerary Timing: The stops are spaced out reasonably, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The boat trip inside the cave lasts 20 minutes, which is just enough to soak in the atmosphere without fatigue.

Hiking and Footwear: Expect to hike a few meters on village streets. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since cobbled and uneven surfaces can be tricky. If you’re prone to fatigue or mobility issues, this might not be the best fit.

Other Practicalities: Bring an umbrella if rain is expected, and don’t forget your camera—there are plenty of photo-worthy moments. Pets are not allowed, and there’s no swim break inside the cave, so plan accordingly.

Cost and Value: For $45, you get a full day’s worth of sightseeing—lunch, boat trip, and hotel transfers included. The value is particularly high considering the variety of experiences, especially the underground lake, scenic views, and cultural stops.

The Authentic Experience and Overall Impression

From the moment we read the reviews, it’s clear this tour appeals to travelers looking for more than just a quick sightseeing drive. Fenja called it “a super tour with many beautiful places,” emphasizing the variety of locations, while Christina appreciated the “beautiful experience,” despite some initial sales tactics.

Some travelers, like Robert, pointed out the less charming aspects—such as the late pickup and feeling somewhat rushed or mass-produced at certain stops. However, most reviews highlight the stunning natural scenery and the authentic charm of the Button Houses and local villages. This suggests that the overall experience is genuine, with the cave and scenic viewpoints being the star attractions.

The boat trip inside Altinbesik Cave is unique—few tours include this subterranean water adventure. It’s a peaceful, awe-inspiring moment that sets this tour apart from more typical cultural excursions.

This experience is best suited for those who want to escape the coast, enjoy nature, and see rural Turkish life. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic vistas, underground mysteries, and traditional architecture, and who don’t mind a bit of walking.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a compelling mix of Turkey’s natural and cultural highlights. For a fair price, you gain access to stunning mountain views, the largest underground lake in Turkey, and the chance to walk through historical villages. The boat ride inside the cave is a particular highlight, making the experience memorable and truly worth the effort.

While there are minor inconveniences—such as the possibility of mass tourism at some stops—the overall value and authenticity make this a worthwhile day trip. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see a different side of Turkey, away from the beaches and bustling tourist spots.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally rich experience that offers a bit of adventure and plenty of photo opportunities, this tour in Side is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy natural beauty, traditional villages, and underground wonders.

More Great Tours Nearby

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel in the Side area are included in the tour price.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, allowing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Bring an umbrella in case of rain, comfortable shoes for walking, and your camera to capture the scenery.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options for lunch?
The provided information doesn’t specify dietary options, but you can usually ask the local restaurant in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It involves some walking on village streets and a boat trip inside the cave, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

In the end, this tour offers a genuine taste of Turkey’s natural beauty and traditional village life. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just after a unique experience outside the tourist crowds, it’s a day well spent.