The City of Side in Turkey offers a captivating tour that showcases the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Venture into the Altinbesik Cave, where you’ll glide across a serene underground lake, and explore the unique "Button Houses" of Ormana Village, renowned for their traditional button-making craft. This 8-hour experience promises a delightful blend of adventure and immersion, allowing you to fully learn about the enchanting landscapes and local traditions that make this area so truly remarkable. Discover the hidden gems that await you in this enchanting corner of Turkey.
Key Points
- The 8-hour tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a boat trip to the Altinbesik Cave, a delicious local lunch, and a visit to the traditional Button Houses in Ormana Village.
- The Altinbesik Cave features the largest underground lake in Turkey, offering a captivating and mesmerizing experience during the 20-minute boat ride.
- The local lunch showcases the region’s rich culinary heritage, featuring traditional Turkish dishes like rice pilaf, grilled meats, salads, and creamy yogurt-based dishes.
- The Button Houses in Ormana Village showcase the traditional button-making craft, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals and their cultural heritage.
- Travelers can choose between a private or shared group tour, catering to their preferences for a personalized or more social experience during the day in nature.
Tour Duration and Inclusions
The tour lasts 8 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off in the Side area, a delicious local lunch, a 20-minute boat trip to Altinbesik Cave, and a professional local guide to lead the way.
Travelers will have the opportunity to explore the largest underground lake in Turkey and spend a day immersed in nature.
The tour also includes a visit to the charming Button Houses, where visitors can witness the art of handmade button making.
Comfortable shoes are recommended as there’s some hiking required between the village streets.
While drinks aren’t included, visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences throughout the day.
Pickup and Drop-off Details
Hotel pickup and drop-off in the Side area are included as part of the tour package. Travelers will be conveniently picked up from their hotel in the Side region and transported to the tour sites, and then returned to their hotel at the end of the day.
This hassle-free arrangement ensures a smooth and seamless experience, allowing guests to focus on enjoying the day’s activities without the worry of transportation logistics. The tour includes air-conditioned minibus transportation, providing a comfortable ride throughout the journey.
With pickup and drop-off included, participants can simply relax and immerse themselves in the wonders of Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village, without the added stress of arranging their own travel.
Discovering the Altinbesik Cave
Venturing into the Altinbesik Cave, visitors are treated to a captivating sight – the largest underground lake in Turkey. This subterranean wonder, located deep within the earth, offers a truly mesmerizing experience for those eager to explore its hidden depths. The 20-minute boat ride across the serene, mirror-like surface allows adventurers to fully enjoy the cave’s natural splendor. As they glide through the tranquil waters, they’re surrounded by towering limestone formations and fascinating rock formations that have been sculpted by time and the elements.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Lake Size | Largest underground lake in Turkey |
| Boat Ride | 20-minute boat trip across the lake |
| Surroundings | Towering limestone formations, intriguing rock formations |
Delicious Local Lunch Experience
After exploring the mesmerizing Altinbesik Cave, visitors can look forward to a delicious local lunch in the nearby Ormana Village.
The meal features an array of traditional Turkish dishes, showcasing the region’s rich culinary heritage and allowing guests to savor the flavors of the countryside. The hearty spread might include fragrant rice pilaf, grilled meats seasoned with local herbs, crisp salads bursting with freshly harvested vegetables, and rich, creamy yogurt-based dishes.
Diners can also sample regional specialties like homemade breads, tangy cheeses, and sweet desserts. This authentic dining experience not only nourishes the body but also offers a deeper connection to the local culture and its time-honored culinary traditions.
Exploring Ormana Village
Following the fulfilling local lunch, visitors can now explore the charming Ormana Village, seeing the authentic rural life and unique architectural highlights of the area.
The village streets are lined with the iconic ‘Button Houses,’ showcasing the traditional button-making craft that has been passed down through generations. Visitors can wander through the winding paths, marveling at the intricate details and vibrant colors of these unique structures.
Plus, the village offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals, providing an opportunity to interact with the friendly residents and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural heritage.
This quaint village experience complements the earlier exploration of the impressive Altinbesik Cave, offering a well-rounded adventure.
Hand-made Button Houses Visit
Wandering through the winding streets of Ormana Village, visitors can admire the charming ‘Button Houses’ – traditional structures showcasing the local craft of button-making that has been passed down through generations.
These unique houses feature facades adorned with thousands of handcrafted buttons in vibrant colors and intricate designs. Guests have the opportunity to step inside and witness the artisans at work, observing the meticulous process of button production.
From selecting the raw materials to painstakingly stitching each button, the skilled craftspeople demonstrate the patience and attention to detail required to create these beautiful and functional items. The Button Houses offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and traditional skills that thrive in this captivating Turkish village.
Private or Shared Group Tour
Travelers can choose between a private tour or a shared group tour for their Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village experience.
The private tour option offers a more personalized and flexible excursion, allowing visitors to set their own pace and tailor the itinerary to their preferences.
Alternatively, the shared group tour provides an opportunity to explore the attractions alongside other like-minded travelers, potentially fostering new connections and a more social atmosphere.
Both options include hotel pickup, a delicious local lunch, the boat trip to the Altinbesik Cave, and the services of a professional local guide.
Whether travelers prefer a more private or a more social experience, they can rest assured that their day in nature will be unforgettable.
Important Recommendations
Proper footwear is essential for the hiking required between the village streets, as the terrain can be uneven.
A camera is also highly recommended to capture the stunning natural scenery and unique architectural features encountered throughout the tour.
While there’s no swim break in the cave, the 20-minute boat trip offers a chance to admire the impressive underground lake.
Guests should be prepared for a day in nature, with comfortable clothing and sun protection.
It’s important to note that no drinks are included, so visitors may want to bring their own water and snacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Boat Ride Safe and How Long Does It Last?
The 20-minute boat trip to Altinbesik Cave is safe and scenic. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil ride across the underground lake while admiring the cave’s impressive limestone formations. The boat trip is included in the tour and is a highlight of the experience.
What Should We Do if We Have Any Dietary Restrictions?
If you have any dietary restrictions, simply notify the tour provider in advance. They’ll be happy to accommodate your needs and ensure you enjoy a delicious local lunch that suits your dietary requirements during the tour.
Can We Make Stops Along the Way to the Cave?
Yes, the tour includes stops along the way to the cave. Guests can make brief stops to stretch their legs, take photos, and explore the local village of Ormana before reaching the main destination of the Altinbesik Cave.
What Is the Average Group Size for the Shared Group Tour?
The shared group tour typically has an average group size of 8-12 participants. The exact group size may vary depending on demand, but the tour is designed for small groups to provide a more personalized experience.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour for Additional Activities?
The tour does not explicitly offer an option to extend for additional activities. However, travelers can inquire with the tour provider about the possibility of adding extra time or activities to customize their experience.
Recap
The Side tour offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and culture.
Visitors can explore the serene Altinbesik Cave, savor a delicious local lunch, and discover the unique ‘Button Houses‘ in Ormana Village.
Whether you choose a private or shared group experience, this 8-hour adventure provides an unforgettable opportunity to fully learn about the enchanting landscapes and traditions of the Side area.
