Escape the coastal crowds and discover the hidden beauty of the Taurus Mountains. This 8-hour tour features a unique boat ride inside the Altınbeşik underground cave lake, a walk through the historic Ormana Village with its famous "Button Houses," and an authentic Turkish village lunch. Perfect for nature and culture l
Step away from the bustling beaches and embark on a captivating journey into the heart of the Taurus Mountains with the Ormana Village & Altınbeşik Cave Tour. This full-day excursion offers a perfect blend of natural wonder and cultural heritage, starting with a scenic drive through winding mountain roads and lush pine forests.
Your first major stop is the magnificent Altınbeşik Cave (Golden Cradle Cave), home to Turkey’s largest underground lake. Here, you will board a small boat for a short, mesmerizing glide across the crystal-clear, emerald waters, surrounded by ancient stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by natural light.
Afterward, the journey continues to the picturesque Ormana Village. Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old walnut trees and admire the unique "Button Houses" (Düğmeli Evler), traditional stone houses built with wooden pegs instead of nails. The day culminates with a delicious, authentic Turkish lunch at a local village restaurant, offering a true taste of Anatolian hospitality before your comfortable return to your Side hotel.
The underground cave maintains a cool, constant temperature of around 15°C (59°F) year-round. The boat ride inside the cave is short (approx. 10-15 minutes) and completely safe. Walking in Ormana Village involves uneven cobblestone streets, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are essential.
We pick you up at your hotel's main gate at the time listed for your area. If your area is not listed, message us on WhatsApp.
| Pickup area | Time |
|---|---|
| Side | |
| Colakli | |
| Evrenseki | |
| Kumkoy | |
| Kizilagac | |
| Kizilot | |
| Sorgun | |
| Titreyengol | |
| Gundogdu | |
| Cenger | |
| Orensehir |
Typical time back at your hotel: 17:30.
This tour is a personal favorite because it shows guests the "real" Turkey, far away from the crowded tourist traps. The warmth of the Ormana villagers and the sheer awe on guests' faces during the cave boat ride never get old.
No, swimming is strictly prohibited inside the cave to protect the delicate natural ecosystem and for safety reasons. You will experience the lake via a short, guided boat ride.
"Button Houses" (Düğmeli Evler) are traditional Ottoman-era stone houses unique to this region. They are built using wooden pegs (resembling buttons) instead of metal nails, showcasing historic Anatolian architecture.
Yes, the temperature inside the cave remains a constant, cool 15°C (59°F) year-round. Bringing a light jacket or sweater is highly recommended, especially after being in the warm coastal sun.
SideKickTours is a licensed local tour operator based in Side and Manavgat, Antalya.
Send us your date and group size on WhatsApp and we will reply with availability. Your tour is confirmed only after we reply.