From Side: Altnbeik Cave and Ormana Village Day Trip

Traveling in Turkey often means stunning coastlines and ancient ruins. But if you’re craving something a little different—something that combines natural beauty with cultural authenticity—this Altnbeik Cave and Ormana Village day trip is worth considering. For around 8 hours, you’ll explore Turkey’s largest underground cave, enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch, and wander through a village famous for its ‘Buttoned Houses’ built without nails or cement. It offers a good mix of adventure, local flavor, and eye-opening sights.

What we really appreciated about this tour is how it balances nature and history. The boat ride through Altnbeik Cave, with its saline underground lake, is a definite highlight—an experience you won’t forget. Equally compelling is the chance to step into Ormana, a village that feels like a preserved snapshot of rural Turkish life. These are experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots and give a genuine taste of local culture.

One thing to keep in mind is that weather can impact the cave visit—heavy rain in winter might make the cave inaccessible due to flooding, so check the forecast. Plus, some travelers have noted the drive can be a bit fast and close to cliffs, which might make nervous travelers or those prone to motion sickness pause and consider their comfort.

This tour suits curious travelers who want a meaningful day outside of the beaches and resorts. If you enjoy exploring natural wonders and authentic villages, this trip offers a satisfying blend.

Key Points

• Natural Wonder: Explore Turkey’s largest underground cave with a boat tour inside.
• Cultural Experience: Walk through Ormana Village and see the unique “Buttoned Houses.”
• Biodiversity: The cave and park are home to over 600 plant species, including 69 endemics.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch in Ormana.
• Breathtaking Views: Take in scenic vistas of Green Canyon and Oymapnar Dam.
• Guided Insight: Knowledgeable guides make the experience enriching and informative.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a comprehensive package, including hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, entrance fees to Altnbeik Cave and the national park, and a traditional lunch in Ormana. It’s a good value considering the access to natural and cultural sites that might otherwise be tough to reach on your own.

Beverages and personal expenses are not included, so you might want to bring some water, especially on warm days, and money for souvenirs or additional snacks.

The Itinerary in Detail

Altnbeik Cave: The Underground Marvel

Starting about 75 km from Side, the journey to Altnbeik National Park feels like entering a different world. Upon arrival, you’ll descend into Turkey’s largest subterranean lake—the third-largest in Europe—accessible only by boat. The boat ride itself is a peaceful, almost meditative experience, as you glide across saline waters surrounded by impressive limestone chambers.

The cave maintains a steady 16°C year-round, making it a cool respite even in summer. The saline lake prevents fish but allows pigeons and bats—an interesting reminder of how life adapts in surprising places. The cave’s vast chambers and shimmering water create a surreal atmosphere, perfect for photography and quiet reflection. The guide will share insights into the geology and biodiversity, highlighting how the park hosts over 600 plant species, including 69 that are endemic.

Ormana Village: A Step Back in Time

After the cave adventure, you’ll head to Ormana Village, a serene place on the ancient Silk Road route. Here, the real charm lies in the “Buttoned Houses”—a testament to regional ingenuity. These homes are built without nails or cement, using juniper, cedar, and tar woods secured with a special locking system. As you walk through the narrow streets, you’ll see how these structures have withstood centuries of weather and time.

Lunchtime is in a local restaurant, where you’ll enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine—think fresh bread, local vegetables, and perhaps some homemade specialties. The guide will explain the significance of the architecture and local lifestyle, giving you a glimpse of traditional rural life that’s rarely captured in tourist spots.

More Great Tours Nearby

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

If you’re interested in natural landscapes combined with cultural history, this day trip ticks those boxes beautifully. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy boat rides and exploring underground caves, as well as travelers curious about rural Turkish architecture and village life.

However, keep in mind that weather conditions can affect the cave visit, and the drive may be a bit brisk, so it’s better suited for those comfortable with a full day of activity and some minor travel risks.

This tour is ideal if you want a balanced day that offers both adventure and insight, away from busy beaches or archaeological sites. It’s also a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who love nature and authentic cultural experiences.

Detailed Review: A Closer Look

The Natural Wonder of Altnbeik Cave

Few underground sites in Europe can match the grandeur of Altnbeik Cave’s submerged chambers. The boat tour inside the cave is the highlight, offering a peaceful glide through limestone caverns and saline waters that shimmer in the dim light. The cave’s consistent temperature of 16°C makes it a comfortable visit, but it’s wise to bring a light jacket if you tend to feel cold.

The saline underground lake, despite lacking fish, is bustling with pigeons and bats, adding to the mystical ambiance. The fact that this cave is Turkey’s largest and the third-largest in Europe speaks to its significance and the rarity of such natural formations.

Exploring Ormana and Its Unique Architecture

The village of Ormana is a charming contrast to the cave’s grandeur. Its Buttoned Houses are a curiosity—homes built with a technique that requires no nails or cement. As you walk through the village, you’ll appreciate the craftsmanship and the preservation of a building style that’s almost lost elsewhere.

The guide’s explanations help you understand how these houses fit into the region’s history and why they’ve survived so well. The village still feels like a living museum, with locals going about their daily routines, offering a glimpse of rural Turkish life untouched by modernization.

The Lunch Experience

The included traditional Turkish lunch adds a culinary dimension to the trip. Usually held in a local restaurant, it features regional dishes that reflect the area’s agricultural bounty and culinary traditions. This is an excellent opportunity to relax and taste authentic flavors, often with friendly local hosts who are proud of their heritage.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the day, you’ll get spectacular views of Green Canyon and Oymapnar Dam. These spots are perfect for scenic photos, especially if you enjoy capturing landscapes and water features that enchant by their serenity.

The Guide and Logistics

Based on reviews, guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience more engaging. The organization seems smooth, with pickups arranged efficiently and clear instructions. One reviewer mentioned the bus drive was “very fast and very close to the cliff,” which might be a concern for some, so if you’re sensitive to fast driving or heights, it’s worth considering.

The entire day is about 8 hours, giving ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. The price includes all entrance fees, boat tour, and lunch, making it a reasonable investment for a full day of exploration.

The Value of This Tour

Compared to more typical sightseeing options, this trip offers value in its variety. You’re paying for a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and culture—something you won’t find in a standard museum or beach day. If you love nature-based activities and learning about local architecture, this tour provides a comprehensive snapshot.

The inclusion of guides in multiple languages (German, English, Russian) ensures accessible explanations, and the flexible booking policy allows you to cancel if weather or other circumstances aren’t ideal.

Who Should Consider This Adventure?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see underground caves and scenic dams, as well as those interested in traditional Turkish architecture. If you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, enjoy boat rides, and want an authentic taste of rural life, this trip is a solid choice.

It’s less suitable for travelers who prefer luxurious comforts, minimal walking, or a very slow pace, or if winter rains are expected, which could restrict access to the cave.

The Sum Up

This From Side: Altnbeik Cave and Ormana Village day trip offers an engaging blend of natural wonder, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. It’s especially appealing for those looking to escape the beaches and explore Turkey’s underground marvels and traditional village life. The boat ride inside the cave is a must-see, and the architecture of Ormana’s Buttoned Houses is a delightful curiosity. The tour combines adventure with education—guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides—making it a memorable day.

While the drive can be a little swift for some, the overall experience provides good value for the price, especially with included meals and entrance fees. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, cultural stories, and scenic vistas.

If you’re after a day that’s different from the usual tourist trail and want to see some authentic Turkey, this trip deserves a spot on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it generally appeals to a wide age range, especially those interested in nature and culture. However, very young children or those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved and the boat ride inside the cave.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, a light jacket for the cave, and some cash for personal expenses or additional drinks. The weather can affect cave accessibility, so check the forecast.

How long is the drive from Side?
The cave is approximately 75 km from Side, which usually takes about 1.5 hours each way, depending on traffic.

Will I get to see the village’s traditional architecture?
Absolutely. The “Buttoned Houses” are a highlight, and guides will explain their construction and history.

Is the boat ride inside the cave safe?
Yes, the boat tour is conducted with professionals. It’s a peaceful ride, but if you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking precautions.

What’s the meal like?
The tour includes a traditional Turkish lunch in Ormana, featuring local dishes and fresh ingredients.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is helpful if rain or storms threaten the cave visit.

Is this tour available year-round?
It is, but during heavy rains in winter, the cave might be inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast before booking.

This trip promises a day packed with adventure, culture, and natural beauty—an excellent choice for curious travelers eager to see a different side of Antalya beyond the beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here: