A trip to Turkey wouldn’t feel complete without visiting one of the natural wonders of the world - especially if you are in Antalya. Altinbesik Caves is the largest underground lake in Turkey and the world’s third-largest. This cave system is about 2.5km long. With an array of stalactites and stalagmites, one of the most stunning things to see at this cave are the stunning thick white travertines. Some these travertines are more than 40 meters high. You can get a rowboat to take you into the cave to take a closer look. Enjoy the serenity of the area or watch how the rocks above your head wink back to the reflection of the blue-green water.
Altinbesik Caves are on the western side of the steep Manavgat Hill and the National Park is accessible by road. The cave system is horizontal and partly active. There are three different levels; bottom and middle levels are active in the rainy seasons while the upper level is always dry. During the spring months, there are streams that flow from the sub and middle levels of the cave.
After your lake caving exploration, most travellers then make a trip over to Side Ancient City, Sillyon Ancient City or Selekueia Ancient City to get a better grasp of how Ancient Lycia was.