From city of Side: Ormana Village Day Tour with Lunch

Exploring the Taurus Mountains: An Honest Look at the Ormana Village Day Tour

If you’re planning to visit the Antalya region and looking for a full-day escape into nature, culture, and history, the Ormana Village Day Tour with Lunch might just be a solid choice. We’ve looked into this experience, and it seems to strike a nice balance between scenic beauty and culture—all for an accessible price.

What really caught our attention are the stunning views of Green Canyon and the chance to visit the famous Golden Cradle cavern, which promises a dose of adventure and wonder. Plus, the included Turkish lunch in a local restaurant adds a hearty touch to the day. On the flip side, some might find the duration a little long, especially if travel is a concern, or prefer more active or unique experiences. But overall, this tour feels well-suited to those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, nature, and cultural charm, without too much hassle.

This tour isn’t necessarily for everyone—if you’re after an adrenaline-packed or very personalized experience, there might be options better suited. But if your goal is to see some of Turkey’s breathtaking mountain scenery, explore quaint villages, and learn from knowledgeable guides, then this one’s worth considering.

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Key Points

• Stunning Views: Offers spectacular panoramas of Green Canyon, Manavgat, and Side from high elevations.
• Cultural Stops: Visits to old villages and the ancient Sar Haclar mosque provide a glimpse into local history.
• Unique Experiences: Cave boat trips and exploration of Turkey’s largest subterranean sea add a sense of adventure.
• Inclusion and Value: For $44, you get transport, guided commentary, boat rides, and a Turkish lunch—making it good value.
• Well-Reviewed Guides: Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and impressive scenery.
• Duration and Comfort: The 8-hour day is comprehensive but might be tiring for some; consider your pace.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Drive into the Mountains

The tour kicks off with a convenient hotel pickup from Side, which is a real time-saver and removes any logistical stress. From there, it’s about an hour’s drive into the Taurus Mountains, a region celebrated for its natural beauty and historic villages. The journey itself is part of the charm, as you watch the scenery shift from coastal resorts to more rugged, lush terrain.

First Stop: Laurel Village (Avasun)

Your first destination is Laurel Village, also called Avasun. Here, the traditional Taurus houses and old village charm come into view. It’s a quiet, picturesque spot that offers a window into rural Turkish life, away from the busier tourist areas. Some reviews mention that walking through these old streets feels like stepping back in time, especially if you enjoy architecture and local culture.

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Panoramic Views at 1300 Meters

Next, your guide takes you up to about 1300 meters elevation, where the views are truly spectacular. From this vantage point, you’ll see Green Canyon, the Green Lake, and the nearby towns of Manavgat and Side. This is a highlight for many travelers: the chance to stand above the landscape and take in the sprawling scenery. Expect plenty of photo opportunities, especially if the weather is clear.

Ürünlü Village and the Button Houses

Down the road, you visit Ürünlü, famed for its “button houses”—a quirky and historic architectural style. Here, you might have some time to walk around, soak in the village atmosphere, and perhaps visit a local cafeteria for a brief refreshment. The charm of Ürünlü lies in its preserved traditional homes and quiet streets, perfect for those interested in authentic local life.

Exploring the Golden Cradle Cavern

Perhaps the most unique part of the trip is the visit to the Golden Cradle cavern inside the Ürünlü National Park. This is reputed to be Antalya’s most famous cavern and contains Turkey’s largest subterranean sea. The highlight is a boat trip inside the cavern, lasting about 25 minutes, where you’ll experience the cool air, impressive stalactites, and quiet waters. Several reviews note the cave as being highly recommended and impressive, with some travelers expressing surprise at the cavern’s size.

Lunch in Ormana Village

After the caves, you’ll head to the village of Ormana, which is described as the “richest village” of the area. Here, the included Turkish lunch awaits in a well-rated restaurant. The meal is usually a variety of traditional dishes—think fresh salads, grilled meats, bread, and local specialties. Travelers mention the delicious food and appreciate the chance to try authentic Turkish cousins in a relaxed setting.

Final Stop: Sar Haclar and the Ottoman Mosque

The last stop is a deserted village named Sar Haclar, where a 650-year-old Ottoman mosque stands. Visitors can explore the abandoned village, take photos of the well-preserved mosque, and see the remnants of the Silk Road—a route that historically connected different regions and civilizations. This spot offers a quiet, contemplative end to the day, highlighting Turkey’s layered history.

Back to Side

After a leisurely exploration, the bus heads back, and you’ll be returned to your hotel in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on the group size and traffic.

The Practicals and Value

For $44 per person, this tour includes hotel transfers, guided commentary in multiple languages, boat trips, entrance fees, and a tasty Turkish lunch. Many travelers feel this offers good value, especially considering the diversity of experiences packed into one day. However, keep in mind that the 8-hour duration means a full day of sightseeing—definitely a commitment, but one that pays off for those craving a comprehensive look at the mountains and villages.

Group Size and Guides

The guided experience is noted for professional guides in English, German, and Russian, which broadens accessibility. While the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest it’s a comfortable, well-managed group, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

Considerations

The tour’s schedule and long drive might not appeal to everyone—especially those with limited time or preference for a more leisurely pace. Also, if you’re not a fan of caves or boat trips, you might find some parts less engaging. But for most, the combination of scenery, culture, and adventure makes this an attractive option.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience works best for travelers who enjoy nature, scenic vistas, and cultural insights. If you’re curious about rural Turkish life and appreciate a good mix of outdoor and indoor experiences, this tour has plenty to offer. It’s also suitable for those who value guided tours with knowledgeable guides, especially since many reviews praise the expertise and friendliness of the guides.

It’s a good pick if you want a day away from the beach or city hustle, with a mix of adventure and relaxation, without the need for strenuous physical activity. However, if you’re looking for more adrenaline or highly specialized activities, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes a pickup and drop-off directly from your hotel in Side, making logistics easy and straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts around 8 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What languages are guides offered in?
Guides are available in English, German, and Russian, ensuring a good level of understanding for most travelers.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Many say it’s the views from the mountain vantage points and the Golden Cradle cavern boat trip—both quite memorable.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, you’ll be treated to a traditional Turkish meal in a local restaurant at Ormana Village.

Are there any age restrictions or considerations?
The tour involves walking in villages and some boat trips inside caves, so comfortable footwear and a reasonable level of mobility are recommended. No specific age restrictions are mentioned, but families with children should consider these factors.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is around $44 per person, which includes transportation, guides, boat trips, entrance fees, and lunch.

Is this tour suitable for travelers interested in history?
Yes, especially with stops like the 650-year-old Ottoman mosque and Silk Road remnants, which offer tangible links to history.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

The Ormana Village Day Tour offers an engaging way to explore Turkey’s stunning mountain landscapes and charming villages without the need for strenuous planning or expensive excursions. With reliable guides, breathtaking views, and memorable cave experiences, it’s a well-rounded way to spend a day outside the usual tourist spots.

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic drives, loves discovering rural areas, and enjoys a taste of local culture and history, this tour will likely hit the right notes. The inclusion of a traditional lunch and boat trips inside caves makes for a varied and satisfying experience, especially considering its reasonable price point.

While it’s not a tour for adrenaline junkies or those seeking hyper-customized experiences, it offers a solid taste of what the Taurus Mountains and surrounding villages have to offer—authentic, scenic, and thoughtfully organized. Perfect for curious travelers who want a memorable, hassle-free day in Turkish nature.

Happy travels, and may your adventures be filled with beautiful views and meaningful discoveries!

You can check availability for your dates here: