City of Side: Sapadere Canyon & Alanya Tour with Lunch

Exploring the City of Side: Sapadere Canyon & Alanya Tour with Lunch

If you’re visiting the Antalya region and looking to escape the coast’s heat while soaking up nature, history, and local flavor, this full-day tour offers a compelling mix. Offering a blend of outdoor adventure, cultural sights, and city exploration, it’s a versatile choice for many travelers. From hiking through the lush Sapadere Canyon to wandering Alanya’s vibrant streets, this experience packs a punch for those craving both relaxation and activity.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, the stunning views of the Taurus Mountains and cascading waterfalls are genuinely impressive. Secondly, the opportunity to try authentic Turkish food in a village setting adds a warm, local touch. Lastly, the optional cable car ride to Alanya Castle offers panoramic vistas that are worth the extra fee. The one potential hiccup? The 1.5-hour bus rides between stops may feel lengthy for some, especially if you prefer shorter travel times.

This trip suits travelers who want a well-rounded day mixing nature, history, and city sights without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just in search of a scenic escape, this tour provides good value and authentic experiences.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery: Breathtaking canyon views, waterfalls, and mountain landscapes.
• Authentic local experience: Lunch in Sapadere village with fresh, regional produce.
• Flexible exploration: Free time in Alanya to explore at your own pace.
• Additional options: Cable car ride to Alanya Castle for panoramic city views.
• Comfortable transportation: Modern coach with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Affordable price: At $40, offers solid value considering the inclusions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This guided day trip from Side is thoughtfully designed to showcase the region’s natural beauty, historic sites, and lively city atmosphere. Starting with a hotel pickup, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours traveling from the coast to the Taurus Mountains, where the lush wilderness awaits. The journey gets you into the right mindset for a day of exploration, with an experienced guide providing insights along the way.

Sapadere Canyon: A Natural Marvel

Once you arrive at Sapadere Canyon, the real adventure begins. Walking along well-maintained wooden pathways, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of waterfalls and the sight of water cascading down rocks. You might find yourself stopping frequently for photos, as the views are truly spectacular. A notable feature here is the array of waterfalls and the chance to swim in ice-cold waters—a refreshing break after a hike. A review from a participant mentions how the route is accessible and scenic, with plenty of wildlife, especially colorful birds and butterflies adding to the experience.

Dining in Sapadere Village

After working up an appetite, you’ll pause at a local restaurant where lunch is included. Expect a meal of regional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients—perfect for recharging before continuing your exploration. Many visitors appreciate this authentic touch, noting that it’s a chance to taste genuine Turkish cuisine in a village setting.

Goblins Cave and Additional Activities

For those interested, there’s an optional visit to Goblins Cave for an extra fee, and a chance to swim in mineral waters from the Taurus Mountains. While these extras are not included in the base price, they add an extra layer of adventure for curious travelers.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Scenic Drive and City Sights

After returning to the coach, you’ll head to Alanya for a two-hour free period. Here, the highlights include Cleopatra Beach, known for its fine sand, and the Red Tower, a historic landmark. Many also choose to take the cable car to Alanya Castle, which offers sweeping views of the coastline and city skyline—an optional upgrade that many find worth the small additional fee.

Final Return

At the end of the day, the coach returns to Manavgat, concluding a well-paced, varied itinerary. The entire experience lasts approximately nine hours, making it a full yet manageable day trip.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Transfer

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Side or nearby areas, with a comfortable coach transporting you approximately 1.5 hours to Sapadere Canyon. The travel time is typical for day trips in the region, but some reviews mention the punctuality of the service, which helps set expectations for a smooth experience.

Sapadere Canyon Exploration

Once there, you’ll be guided along wooden pathways through the canyon—a walk that’s neither overly strenuous nor difficult, suitable for most fitness levels. The sound of waterfalls and the cool mountain air make it a refreshing contrast to the coast. The guide might point out some interesting wildlife, and you’ll have opportunities to take pictures at various viewpoints. Random waterfalls along the way create ideal spots for photos, and the natural setting offers a peaceful escape.

Lunch with Local Flavors

Lunch is served in a local restaurant in Sapadere village. Many reviews mention the quality of the food, which typically features fresh, regional ingredients. This is a chance to try Turkish specialties and enjoy a relaxed meal in a rustic setting before heading back into nature or the city.

Optional Goblins Cave and mineral water swims

While not included in the base package, visiting Goblins Cave can be a quirky addition. Some travelers find it interesting, especially if they enjoy caves or are curious about local legends. The mineral waters, when accessible, provide an additional soothing experience, adding to the sense of connection with the mountain environment.

Drive to Alanya and Free Time

Returning to Alanya, you’ll have about two hours free for independent exploration. The highlights include Cleopatra Beach, famed for its fine sand and clear waters, and the Red Tower, a medieval fortress offering scenic views. You might also opt for the cable car ride to Alanya Castle, which provides impressive vistas over the city and coast.

Return Journey

After your free time, the coach departs for Manavgat, with many travelers noting the punctuality and comfort of the return trip, as echoed in reviews mentioning the tour provider’s reliability.

Value and Practicality: Is It Worth It?

At just $40, this tour offers a solid value considering the many highlights: stunning natural scenery, a traditional Turkish lunch, and the flexibility of free time in Alanya. The transportation, guided insights, and entrance fees to Sapadere Canyon are included, which means no unexpected costs. For travelers on a budget seeking a full, active day with varied experiences, this trip covers all bases.

The optional activities, like Goblins Cave and the cable car, allow for customization—perfect if you want to add a little extra adventure without overspending. The only caveat is the travel time between stops, which might feel long for those eager to spend more time in each location. However, many reviews emphasize the punctuality and comfort of the coach, making the journey manageable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is excellent for nature lovers eager to hike through scenic landscapes and waterfalls. It’s also suited for culture and history enthusiasts who want a taste of Alanya’s historic sites alongside natural beauty. With a reasonable price point, it appeals to travelers seeking value and variety without sacrificing authenticity.

If you prefer shorter travel times or are sensitive to long coach rides, this might be less ideal. However, if you’re up for a full day of exploring mountains, waterfalls, and city sights, it’s a strong choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long is the drive from Side to Sapadere Canyon?
The drive takes about 1.5 hours each way, providing a comfortable transition from the coast to the mountain scenery.

What should I bring for the hike?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking along well-maintained wooden walkways and exploring waterfalls.

Can I swim in the waterfalls?
Yes, many visitors do take the opportunity to swim in the icy waters of the waterfalls, which offers a refreshing break.

Is the lunch included in the price?
Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch made with local produce is included in the tour package.

How much free time do I get in Alanya?
You will have approximately two hours of free time to explore sights like Cleopatra Beach, the Red Tower, or take the cable car.

What are the optional extras?
Visiting Goblins Cave and swimming in mineral waters are available for an additional fee.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
Most likely yes, since the walk is accessible and the activities are not overly strenuous, but always check with the provider if you’re traveling with young children.

What is the main highlight of the trip?
Travelers often mention the spectacular canyon views and waterfalls as the most memorable parts of the experience.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Side to Alanya offers a well-balanced mix of outdoor adventure, cultural sightseeing, and city exploration at an attractive price point. The stunning views of Sapadere Canyon and the waterfalls alone make it worth considering, especially if you enjoy being in nature. The inclusion of a traditional lunch and free time in Alanya enhances the overall value, giving you a taste of local life and historic charm.

Perfect for those wanting a full day of activity without feeling rushed, this trip suits travelers eager to see the region’s natural beauty and historic sites in one go. The optional cable car and cave visits allow for some customization, catering to different interests.

If you’re after a scenic, varied outing that balances adventure with relaxation, this tour offers a compelling, affordable option that will leave you with plenty of memorable moments.

You can check if your dates are available here: