In Turkey’s Central Anatolia is Cappadocia, an otherworldly destination that tops the bucket list of many travelers. Valleys, rock formations and caves form naturally, with some of those caves housing sprawling rooms, churches and even accommodation carved out by early Christians over the centuries.
If you’re planning a trip to Cappadocia, you don’t have to settle for an ordinary hotel. Instead, you can have an amazing in one of the cave hotels of Cappadocia. These are entire hotels carved out of the landscape, letting you experience the true culture and beauty of the region. This list highlights some of the most memorable cave hotels found in Cappadocia.
10. Phocas Cave Suites
Phocas Cave Suites is located in Cavusin Village, which means that you’ll be just two miles from the town center of Goreme and it’s popular Open Air Museum. Although the rooms are equipped with comfortable amenities, it is still clearly a cavernous atmosphere. That only adds to the appeal of staying in Cappadocia.
A large terrace offers spectacular views over the landscape, and you’ll have a great vista out over some of the area’s fairy chimneys and rock formations. Enjoy a breakfast buffet featuring local products, or end the day by selecting a bottle of wine from the large wine cave.
9. Museum Hotel Cappadocia
Head to Uchisar to experience a stay at the Museum Hotel Cappadocia. This is a luxurious, boutique hotel that is akin to spending the night in one of the world’s top museums.
Stone and cave units are found in restored historic ruins, and the decor in some rooms are priceless antiques. A heated outdoor swimming pool is one of the top-ranked amenities, and the terrace is a favorite spot to sip a glass of wine or participate in a Turkish cooking class.
8. Travellers Cave Pension
If you want to stay in the heart of Goreme, you may enjoy the Travellers Cave Pension. Rooms are built from stone or carved out of the landscape, and arched walls remind you of the incredible caverns in this part of the world.
Rooms are elegantly outfitted with traditional decor as well as modern amenities like a flat-screen television. The terrace restaurant is the best place in the hotel, offering views over the fairy chimneys. A tour desk can help you book hot air balloon rides or ATV tours.
7. Cappadocia Cave Suites
Step back in time with a stay at the magnificent Cappadocia Cave Suites. Centrally located in Goreme, this hotel is situated in ancient caves and has a distinctly medieval feel.
However, all of the suites are luxuriously outfitted and some even offer living rooms and private fireplaces. At the hotel’s Historia Restaurant, you can dine on an incredible selection of local Turkish favorites as well as a few international dishes.
6. Kelebek Special Cave Hotel
Overlooking the town of Goreme, the Kelebek Special Cave Hotel boasts remarkable views and a chance to experience traditional Cappadocian life. A Turkish bath, a sauna and an outdoor swimming pool offer excellent opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
The stone and wood cave hotel uses local textiles to create an authentic, traditional style. Many of the suites offer fireplaces and even private balconies, bringing the beauty of Cappadocia right to your room.
5. Kayakapi Premium Caves
Just a few miles from major attractions like the Zelve Open Air Museum and the Al Nazar Church is Kayakapi Premium Caves. At this hotel, you’ll be able to stay in medieval rooms carved right from the rocks of the landscape, creating a truly Cappadocian environment.
Inside, the decor is upscale, and you can expect features like ornate stone murals, hand carved furniture and even private hammams in some of the largest suites. You’ll have access to an outdoor swimming pool as well as two restaurant on site, not to mention an enormous collection of local wines.
4. Terra Cave Hotel
The Terra Cave Hotel in Goreme is housed in a cave dwelling that dates back to the 19th century. Staying at the hotel puts you in touch with the many people that have lived in Cappadocian cave homes for centuries.
Although you’re connected to the rustic past, the Terra Cave Hotel offers up-to-the-minute amenities. Enjoy free Wifi as you sit by the fire, arrange a horseback riding tour or tuck into the extensive breakfast buffet set out each morning for guests.
3. Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel
Many of the cave hotels in Cappadocia have a rich history, but few can compete with the Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel. This hotel in Urgup dates back to the fifth century. It also boasts an adjacent 19th century Greek mansion, and you’ll have your choice of rooms in both structures.
Handcrafted furnishings and marble bathrooms are some of the upscale touches you can expect on the property. It’s also a five-minute walk from the Goreme National Historic Park, where you can hike, ride horses and explore the incredible landscape for which Cappadocia is known.
2. Artemis Cave Suites
Goreme is home to the Artemis Cave Suites, a lavish hotel that feels out of this world. While the rooms are wonderful, most guests rave about the private garden and the abundance of terraces.
At night, lights illuminate the landscape, and the fairy chimneys set the tone for a memorable evening. The hotel staff can help you make the most of your time in Cappadocia, whether that means booking a tour to ride horses or a cycling adventure through stunning rock formations.
1. Sultan Cave Suites
Sultan Cave Suites is located at the top of Aydinli Hill, which means that guests are treated to panoramic views over the town of Goreme below. Rooms carved from stone are equipped with modern amenities such as free Wifi and luxurious showers, but step outside and you’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time.
Admire hot air balloons soar overhead as you sip wine from the terrace, or head out onto your private balcony to watch the sun set over the cave dwellings of Goreme below.