Altinbesik Cave Tour from Alanya

Altinbesik Cave Tour From Alanya Itinerary

• Pick up from your hotel or apartment in Alanya.
• Visit the ancient village of Sarıhacılar
• Visit button houses
• Visit the ethnographic museum (optional)
• Visit Sarnch (antique cisterns and reservoirs)
• Visit the village mosque, get information about the mosque and the Islamic religion
• Tour of the village of Ormana
• Lunch break
• Arrival at Altinbesik cave
• Boarding inflatable boats and sailing inside the cave.
• Drop off at your hotel and apartment in Alanya

Alanya boasts some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the country, and among them is the remarkable Altinbesik Cave. Embarking on the Altinbesik Cave Tour from Alanya promises an unforgettable experience, offering panoramic views, visits to quaint villages nestled in the Taurus Mountains, an exploration of the renowned underground lake, and an immersion into the beauty of the national park.

Commencing in the morning, our team will pick you up from your Alanya hotel, providing essential details about the day's itinerary during the scenic road trip. The tour unfolds with a visit to the Green Canyon, where the Oymapinari dam reveals itself from an elevation of 1250 meters, creating a picturesque setting perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The journey continues through charming villages like İbradı, Ormana, and Sarıhacılar, each holding historical significance as the earliest settlements in the Taurus Mountains. These villages showcase unique architecture, with houses constructed from juniper, cedar, and tar trees without the use of cement, earning them the moniker of "buttoned houses."

A pivotal stop occurs at the Altınbesik Cave, Turkey's first and Europe's third-largest underground lake cave. With a length of 450 meters and a depth of 15 meters, the cave boasts 20 small lakes and an overall length of approximately 50 km. Guided by an experienced tour guide, you'll navigate the cave and marvel at the enchanting underground lake, immersing yourself in its majestic atmosphere.

Following the cave exploration, you'll have leisure time to discover the wonders of Altınbesik National Park, officially designated as such in 1994. Renowned for its diverse flora, the park harbors 605 different plants, including 69 endemic species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists alike.

Given the nature-focused excursion, comfortable shoes and attire are recommended. A scheduled lunch break is included in the itinerary. As the day concludes, the bus will transport you back to Alanya, leaving you with cherished memories upon your return to your hotel in the afternoon.

Ancient village of Sarıhacılar

The historic village of Sarıhacılar, nestled in the embrace of the Taurus Mountains, exudes an air of timeless charm and cultural significance. This ancient settlement, with its roots tracing back through the annals of time, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its people and the rich history that unfolds within its rustic boundaries.

Wandering through Sarıhacılar, one is transported to an era where tradition and heritage interweave seamlessly. The village is renowned for its unique architectural style, characterized by houses crafted from juniper, cedar, and tar trees, a construction method eschewing the use of cement. These distinct dwellings, often referred to as "buttoned houses," evoke a sense of craftsmanship and cultural identity that has withstood the passage of centuries.

As one strolls through the narrow lanes of Sarıhacılar, the echoes of the past resonate in the timeless structures, each telling a story of the generations that have called this village home. The rustic simplicity of daily life unfolds against the backdrop of the Taurus Mountains, creating a picturesque tableau that captures the essence of rural Anatolian life.

Sarıhacılar holds a unique place in the historical tapestry of the Taurus region, being one of the earliest settlements in these ancient mountains. The village has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, preserving its cultural heritage and traditions that are still evident in the daily lives of its inhabitants.

For those who seek a journey through history and a glimpse into the soul of Anatolia, the ancient village of Sarıhacılar beckons with its cobbled streets, traditional houses, and the warm hospitality of a community deeply rooted in its heritage. It stands as a living testament to the enduring legacy of the past, inviting travelers to step back in time and immerse themselves in the timeless allure of this ancient Anatolian village.

Button Houses

The term "button houses" in Alanya refers to a unique and distinctive architectural style found in certain villages, including Sarıhacılar, nestled in the Taurus Mountains. These houses are characterized by their construction method, which involves using juniper, cedar, and tar trees without the use of cement. The houses are assembled in a way that resembles buttoning, giving rise to the name "button houses."

The architectural design of these button houses is not only aesthetically charming but also serves practical purposes. The use of natural materials and the absence of cement contribute to the houses' ability to withstand the mountainous terrain and the region's climatic conditions. The juniper, cedar, and tar tree construction provides insulation against the elements while maintaining a unique and rustic appearance.

The button houses showcase the ingenuity and adaptability of the local people who have, for generations, built their homes using materials readily available in the Taurus Mountains. Beyond their functional aspects, these houses have become symbolic of the cultural identity and historical heritage of the villages where they are found, creating a distinctive architectural landscape that stands out in the Alanya region.

Exploring these button houses in Alanya, especially in villages like Sarıhacılar, offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional craftsmanship and lifestyle of the local communities. The houses not only reflect the resourcefulness of the residents but also contribute to the overall charm and character of the region, making them a unique attraction for those interested in cultural and historical experiences.

Note:

• It is allowed to take your camera with you
• Wear comfortable shoes and outfit depending on the season's conditions.