Exploring the Gazipa Hole Sea and King’s Bay Tour from Alanya: A Detailed Review
Planning a day trip out of Alanya? The Gazipa Hole Sea and King’s Bay Tour offers a blend of history, nature, and relaxation. From ancient ruins to crystal-clear waters, this tour hits many of the highlights in Antalya Province, all packed into a single day. Whether you’re into exploring Roman sites, wandering picturesque caves, or simply lounging by the water, this excursion has something to offer.
What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the diversity of experiences—there’s sightseeing, adventure, and downtime, making it suitable for a variety of travelers. The guides are known for their knowledge and friendly attitude, which adds value to the trip. However, keep in mind that the tour involves some walking and swimming, so it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues or aren’t comfortable in the water. This trip is best suited for those looking for an active, scenic day with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and relaxed moments alike.
Key Points
- Diverse attractions: Ruins, caves, natural pools, and scenic viewpoints all in one tour.
- Knowledgeable guides: Guides speak multiple languages including English, Russian, and German.
- Comfortable transportation: Pickup and drop-off from Alanya hotels are included.
- Value for money: Includes insurance, guide, lunch, and cave entrance fees.
- Limited flexibility: Not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with mobility issues.
- Great for nature lovers and history buffs: Perfect mix of outdoor exploration and cultural insights.
What to Expect from the Gazipa Hole Sea and King’s Bay Tour
This tour is designed for travelers eager to see both natural wonders and historical sites in a manageable day trip. Starting early from Alanya, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and driven about 60 kilometers east to Gazipasa district in Antalya Province. The distance means you’ll spend some time on the road, but the scenery along the way makes the journey pleasant.
You can check availability for your dates here:Discovering Delik Deniz and Gazipa Hole Sea
One of the tour’s stars is Delik Deniz, named for its unique natural hole carved between rocks. This formation looks like a water-filled cave, created by natural erosion over time, making it a truly impressive sight. Photographers love this spot for its dramatic views, and visitors often comment on how peaceful and untouched it feels. Expect to spend time exploring around the lagoon and walking along the surrounding paths, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Delik Deniz is about 60 km from Alanya, making it a manageable stop that offers a quiet break from city life. You’ll get to admire the natural bridge and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere—ideal for those wanting to connect with nature.
Looking for more options in Gazipasa? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Exploring Ancient Ruins: Antiochia Ad Cragum
History buffs will appreciate the visit to the ruins of Antiochia Ad Cragum, an ancient Roman city perched above the sea. This site provides fascinating insights into Turkey’s layered past, with remains that include walls and structures overlooking the water. The guides are usually very knowledgeable, explaining the significance of these ruins and sharing stories about the ancient civilizations that once inhabited this area.
While you might not have hours to explore every corner, the short walk around the site gives you a sense of the scale and history. It’s a good reminder of the region’s importance in antiquity, and the views from the ruins are worth the visit.
Cave Exploration: Yalan Dünya Cave and Surroundings
Another highlight is Yalan Dünya Cave, renowned for its stalactites and stalagmites. This underground marvel provides a cool contrast to the daytime heat, and the guided walk inside offers a chance to appreciate the natural formations up close. Visitors often mention how impressive the cave’s interior looks—like something out of a fantasy film—and note how the guides do a great job explaining geological features.
Relaxing at Koru Beach and Natural Pools
After the caves and ruins, the tour includes time at Koru Beach, where you can swim in natural pools or relax on the rocky shore. The water here is crystal-clear and inviting, perfect for cooling off after the morning’s excursions. If you love swimming, you’ll find these natural pools a much more authentic experience than crowded beach resorts.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Practicalities of the Tour
This full-day experience is packed with activities but remains flexible enough to cater to most travelers’ needs. The price covers insurance, a guide, lunch, and cave entry fees, making it a convenient, all-in-one package. Keep in mind that drinks (non-alcoholic drinks start from about 3-4 USD) are not included, so bringing some water or snacks might be wise.
Transportation is provided from your hotel in Alanya, with pickup occurring about 10 minutes before the scheduled time. The group size typically keeps the atmosphere lively but not overwhelming, and guides speak multiple languages, including English, German, and Russian, ensuring clear communication.
The tour duration is approximately one day, so it’s a full but manageable schedule. Most visitors find the pace comfortable, but be prepared for some walking and swimming—wear comfortable shoes, a swimsuit, and sun protection.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hat and sunscreen for sun protection
- Swimwear for swimming
- Camera for capturing scenery
- Water to stay hydrated
Restrictions and Considerations
This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, mobility impairments, or non-swimmers. Smoking and eating during the tour are restricted to maintain the natural environment.
Authentic Experiences and Tips
Our review of various traveler comments suggests that the guides make a real difference. Several mention the guides’ extensive knowledge and friendly attitude, which enhances the overall experience. Guides often share interesting details about the ruins and caves, turning sightseeing into a story-filled adventure.
One traveler noted, “The guide was incredibly knowledgeable, explaining the history of Antiochia Ad Cragum in a way that brought the site alive.” Others appreciated the opportunity to take stunning photos, especially at Delik Deniz, describing it as a “magical place” that’s perfect for picture-perfect moments.
Some travelers mention that the tour is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed. They also appreciate the included lunch, which typically features Turkish cuisine, offering a taste of the local flavors.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is ideal for adventure seekers who want a mix of history, nature, and relaxation. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy walking and swimming, but not so much for travelers with mobility constraints. Nature lovers will enjoy the caves, natural pools, and scenic viewpoints, while history enthusiasts can appreciate the ancient ruins.
If you’re after a flexible, well-organized day out that avoids the hustle of crowded beaches, this tour offers a peaceful yet engaging escape. It’s also a good choice for travelers looking for a value-packed day, with transportation, guiding, lunch, and entrance fees included.
The Sum Up
The Gazipa Hole Sea and King’s Bay Tour from Alanya offers a balanced combination of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and outdoor fun. The natural formations like Delik Deniz and the caves stand out as highlights, while the ancient ruins add a historical dimension that enriches the experience. The tour’s knowledgeable guides and all-inclusive pricing make it a convenient choice for travelers wanting to see more of Antalya Province in a single day.
While it’s not suited for those with accessibility needs or who prefer a more relaxed, less active day, it does cater well to those eager for exploration and adventure. The natural beauty, combined with cultural sights, makes this tour a well-rounded, worthwhile option for most travelers.
FAQ
Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Alanya are included, making logistics hassle-free.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about one day, with different stops allowing enough time to enjoy each attraction without feeling rushed.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, a camera, and water are recommended for the trip.
Are drinks included?
No, non-alcoholic drinks start from about 3-4 USD, so you might want to bring some extra refreshments.
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Swimming is part of the experience at natural pools and beaches, so non-swimmers should consider their comfort level before booking.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
This tour offers a good mix of history, nature, and relaxation. It’s especially perfect for travelers who enjoy an active day exploring outdoor sites, capturing stunning photos, and learning about the area’s past—all while being supported by friendly guides and convenient logistics.
You can check availability for your dates here: