Tucked away in the heart of Turkey’s Antalya region, Altinbesik Cave and the charming Ormana Village offer visitors a captivating blend of natural wonder and culture. The cave’s stunning underground lake, the world’s third-largest, is a geological marvel that beckons explorers to embark on an unforgettable inflatable boat ride. Complementing this sublime setting, Ormana Village captivates with its authentic rural Turkish lifestyle, renowned for mouthwatering local cuisine and a wealth of architectural and cultural traditions. Though the journey may be off the beaten path, those who venture to this hidden gem are sure to be rewarded with memories that linger long after the trip has ended.
Key Points
- The Altinbesik Cave features the world’s third-largest underground lake, with a serene, mirror-like surface and captivating limestone formations.
- Ormana Village offers an authentic taste of rural Turkish life, renowned for its delectable local cuisine and unique architectural styles.
- The tour includes a scenic lunch in Ormana Village and explorations of the picturesque Avasun and Urunlu villages.
- Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from a 1200m-high terrace, with rolling hills, densely forested areas, and distant mountain peaks.
- The tour is led by knowledgeable guides fluent in Turkish, English, and German, with hotel transfers and entrance fees to the Altinbesik Cave included.
Tour Details
The tour offers a captivating 6-hour adventure, with pickup from Side area hotels typically between 8:30 and 9:30 am.
Guests can explore the wonders of the region accompanied by knowledgeable guides fluent in Turkish, English, and German.
The tour’s highlights include the world’s third-largest underground lake at Altinbesik Cave, a scenic lunch in Ormana Village, and visits to the picturesque Avasun and Urunlu villages.
Along the way, travelers will witness breathtaking views from a 1200m high terrace and learn about the unique buttoned house architecture of Urunlu.
This immersive experience showcases the natural and cultural richness of the area in an efficient and informative manner.
Tour Highlights
Visitors can look forward to an array of captivating highlights throughout the tour, starting with the world’s third-largest underground lake at the awe-inspiring Altinbesik Cave.
Followed by a scenic lunch in the charming Ormana Village, the journey continues with explorations of the picturesque Avasun and Urunlu villages, showcasing their unique architectural and cultural delights.
Atop a 1200m-high terrace, guests will be treated to spectacular panoramic views, while the distinctive buttoned house architecture of Urunlu Village offers a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.
From the serene natural beauty to the authentic local insights, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for all who embark on it.
Itinerary
The tour commences with a stop at the vibrant Sarilar village orange orchard, allowing visitors to enjoy the lively local atmosphere and witness the cultivation of the region’s renowned citrus fruits.
Proceeding onward, the journey unfolds with an exploration of the picturesque Avasun village, where guests can gain captivating insights into the community’s way of life.
Continuing the adventure, a photo stop at the breathtaking 1200m-high viewpoint promises to reward travelers with unparalleled panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Next, the tour ventures to the unique Urunlu village, showcasing its distinctive buttoned house architecture.
The highlight of the day is the exploration of the Altinbesik Cave, complete with an inflatable boat ride across its world-famous underground lake.
Inclusions
This tour includes a delectable lunch at Ormana Village, allowing travelers to savor the local cuisine and enjoy the village’s authentic atmosphere.
Plus, it covers the entrance fees to the captivating Altinbesik Cave and provides an exhilarating inflatable boat ride across its underground lake.
On top of that, the services of a professional guide fluent in English, German, and Russian are included, ensuring a seamless and informative experience throughout the day.
Hotel transfers are also provided, making the logistics of the tour effortless.
With these comprehensive inclusions, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure, blending culture, natural wonders, and hassle-free convenience.
Exclusions
While the tour includes numerous benefits, a few key exclusions exist. Drinks during the tour and personal expenses like photos and souvenirs aren’t covered, so participants should budget accordingly for these optional add-ons.
| Exclusions | |
|---|---|
| Drinks | Not included |
| Photos & Souvenirs | Personal expenses |
Though the tour provides a comprehensive experience, a bit of financial planning is needed to account for these additional costs. By being mindful of the exclusions, travelers can ensure they have a seamless and enjoyable journey through the stunning Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village.
Altinbesik Cave
At the heart of this captivating tour lies Altinbesik Cave, boasting the world’s third-largest underground lake and offering visitors a truly mesmerizing experience.
Descending into this subterranean wonder, travelers will embark on an inflatable boat ride, gliding across the serene, mirror-like waters that reflect the cave’s stunning limestone formations. Stalactites and stalagmites adorn the cavernous walls, creating an otherworldly ambiance.
As they explore this geological marvel, guests will be awed by the sheer scale and beauty of the Altinbesik Cave. This breathtaking adventure allows visitors to enjoy the natural splendor hidden beneath the earth’s surface, leaving them with lasting memories of their exploration of this captivating subterranean world.
Ormana Village
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the region, Ormana Village offers visitors a glimpse into the authentic charm of rural Turkish life.
Located at the heart of the tour, this quaint village is renowned for its delectable local cuisine served in a serene, tranquil setting. Guests can savor traditional dishes prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and learn about the village’s rich culinary heritage.
Beyond the dining experience, Ormana Village also provides an opportunity to take in the daily rhythms of rural life, with guided walks showcasing the unique architectural styles and cultural traditions that have endured through the generations.
The village’s welcoming atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a cherished highlight of the Altinbesik Cave tour.
Scenic Viewpoint
En route to Ormana Village, the tour makes a stop at a spectacular 1200-meter-high terrace that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
From this lofty vantage point, visitors are treated to a sweeping vista that stretches out in all directions. Rolling hills, densely forested areas, and distant mountain peaks create a stunning natural backdrop.
The viewpoint is an ideal spot for snapping photos and taking in the serene beauty of the region. Travelers have the chance to pause, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and savor the tranquility of this picturesque setting before continuing on to the next highlight of the tour – the charming village of Ormana.
Recap
Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village offer a captivating blend of natural wonder and culture.
Visitors can explore the serene underground lake, admire the limestone formations, and enjoy the charming rural life of the village.
This unique destination promises an unforgettable experience, seamlessly combining the geological marvel of the cave with the authentic charm of traditional Turkish life.
