Altinbesik Cave, Antalya, the largest underground lake in Türkiye
There are many wonders underground and anyone who has seen the inside of underground caves will attest to this fact. Turkey has unique underground natural treasures, of which Altinbesik Cave, located in the south of Antalya province, is one of its most important works.
Altınbesik Cave, located in the Ibradı district of Antalya, is part of the Altınbesik National Park, which is located a few kilometers from the village of Ürünlü on the outskirts of the Taurus Mountains. The road leading to the park is a fascinating area in itself and an exciting route that is likely to be particularly suitable for those who enjoy climbing and high altitudes. This cave, at an altitude of 450 meters above sea level, was discovered in 1966 by Temuçin Aygen, who was the founder and honorary president of the Turkish Caving Foundation. Stay with us to learn more about Besik’s Altin Cave and its beauty.
Introducing Altin Cave, Beşiktaş, Antalya
Altinbesik Cave was declared as a national park in 1994 and over time, especially in the last five years, it has become a popular tourist area in Antalya, attracting many domestic and foreign tourists every year. This cave has beautiful natural lighting that illuminates the ceiling and the beautiful lights are reflected on the water of the underground lake.
This cave hosts the largest and longest underground lake in Turkey, which is known as a special phenomenon of nature and has an amazing view, and Altınbesik is the third longest lake in the world, which extends more than 2,500 meters in the cave.
Altinbesik Cave is one of the important tourist attractions of Türkiye due to its natural beauty and geological features. This cave got its name from the golden stalactites that are found in its upper part and are hanging from the ceiling like sharp spears, and it is of great scientific importance for geological studies. Altınbesik Cave, with its natural structure and unique beauty, is a must-see destination for nature and adventure lovers.
Icy travertines, which are formed from limestone deposits, keep the air in the cave cool, so the inside of the cave is much cooler than the outside. Also, the pristine and beautiful water of the lake has added more beauty to the unique and otherworldly environment of the cave.
This underground lake collects the waters of the Manavgat River before it turns into a river and is known as a true natural wonder that can be crossed by boat. Altin Besik cave lake is a part of Jambos lake. In addition, the rich flora around the cave and the karst topography of Altin Cave in Beşiktaş Antalya are very beautiful and have made the national park famous.
In 1999, the World Wide Fund for Nature identified 100 forest areas that are the most valuable in terms of biodiversity in Europe and should be protected immediately, one of which is Altinbesik in Antalya.
Attractions and nature around Altinbesik Cave
Located under a mountain, Altin Cave in Beşiktaş Antalya includes several levels, each with its own unique characteristics. Note that due to safety considerations, only part of its extensive two-kilometer network can be viewed.
After returning from Altinbesik Cave, we suggest you visit Ormana village, which is famous for its distinctive houses and ancient mosque. This historical village is a treasure of the beautiful architecture of the region and you can see the medieval history and cultural heritage of Turkey in it.
At a distance of about 5 km from the city, Altinbesik National Park hosts diverse and rare plant species that have given it a beautiful and different appearance. This national park, which houses Altinbeşik Cave in its heart, is known as one of the most visited tourist destinations in Antalya, and visitors can see sycamore trees, carob trees, wild olives, cypresses, figs, blackberries, and all kinds of wild flowers and plants in its nature. .
Also, the diverse wildlife of this area includes animals such as wild boars, foxes, rabbits, squirrels, bats, woodpeckers, cuckoos, sea turtles, snakes, and chameleons. Tourists can enjoy watching this pristine nature and its wildlife while visiting Altinbesik Cave.
Features of Altinbesik Cave
Altinbesik Cave, in addition to housing the largest underground lake in Turkey, is also notable for its stalactites and stalagmites. The interior of the cave has a mesmerizing atmosphere with natural light effects and clear waters. This cave consists of three levels, the upper levels are generally submerged and suitable for diving.
Altinbesik Cave Lake is 125 meters wide and 2200 meters wide with a depth of 15 meters, and you should take a boat trip in the cave and visit the natural bridges and limestone holes.
Access route to Altinbesik Cave
Altinbesik Cave of Antalya is located in the area of Ürünlü village in İbradı district of Antalya and its distance from Antalya city center is about 160 km. To reach this cave, you can take a bus or minibus from Antalya Bus Terminal to İbradı. After reaching İbradı, you can also go to Ürünlü village by mini bus or taxi. Also, if you want to travel comfortably, you can rent a car from Antalya to easily go to this area.
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