About fifteen kilometres east of Alanya, the Dim valley opens into the Taurus foothills. Here you will find the Dim Cave, one of the largest show caves in Turkey, and the Dim River, a cold, clear stream that tumbles past rows of shaded riverside restaurants. The jeep safari linked here is an outing that includes the cave and a river lunch, giving you underground scenery, a scenic drive and a chance to cool off on a hot day. It suits families, couples and anyone who wants a break from sun and sand.
The cave is the main attraction, and it is far larger than Damlatas. A lit walkway of several hundred metres leads through high chambers hung with stalactites, columns and rock curtains, with a constant cool temperature that feels wonderful after the heat outside. A small underground pool and a viewing platform at the far end give the visit a clear shape, and there is a café and a lookout over the valley at the entrance. Allow about an hour for the cave, longer if you stop for photographs.
After the cave, the river takes over. Dim River is fed by mountain springs, and its water is cold and clean even in August. Restaurants set tables on platforms over the stream, so you eat grilled trout or meat dishes with your feet nearly in the water, and some will let you dip in for a swim. The shaded terraces are among the most pleasant lunch spots in the region, especially in July and August when the coast is baking and the valley stays several degrees cooler.
The jeep element gives the day its adventurous feel. You travel in a convoy of open vehicles along forest tracks into the hills, stopping at viewpoints and a village or two, before descending to the cave and river. It is a fun, dusty ride rather than a technical drive, and children usually love it. Wear closed shoes, a hat and sunscreen, and bring a light layer because the cave and river are cooler than the road. Hotel pickup is common and saves arranging transport.
For planning, choose a morning departure if you want to avoid the heat and the crowds at the cave. Low season is quieter but some riverside restaurants close, so check ahead if you travel outside the main months. If you want a more relaxed pace, you can also visit the cave and river by taxi or dolmus and arrange your own lunch. Whichever way you go, bring a swimsuit and a towel, and plan to stay for a long, slow meal beside the water.
A few extra notes help the day run smoothly. The cave floor is damp and the steps can be slippery, so avoid flip-flops. The restaurants along the river are broadly similar, so choose one with a shaded terrace and tables by the water, and ask the price of fish by weight before ordering.
On busy summer days book a table or arrive before the lunch rush at around noon. If you have time, a short riverside stroll after the meal is a pleasant way to digest and cool off before the drive back to the coast.
What to expect
The experience
A jeep safari into the hills with a visit to the large Dim Cave and a riverside lunch on the cold, clear Dim River.
Best time
Summer, when the cool valley and cave offer relief from the heat; mornings for the cave.
How long
Plan on a half day, with about an hour in the cave and a long lunch by the river.
Tips
Bring a swimsuit and a light layer, wear closed shoes, and ask about hotel pickup when you book.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a cool, scenic escape from the beach with an easy dose of adventure.
- Families
- Children love the open jeep and the cave, and the river terraces are relaxed.
- Couples
- A shaded table over the river is a calm, romantic lunch.
- Pair with
- Sapadere Canyon, a Turkish bath or a sunset boat trip.
- Time needed
- Four to five hours including the transfer, cave and lunch.
Good questions
How far is Dim Cave from Alanya?+
It is roughly fifteen kilometres east of town in the Taurus foothills, a drive of around thirty minutes.
Is the cave suitable for children?+
Yes. The walkway is lit and paved, though some steps can be slippery, so keep an eye on young children.
Can I swim in the Dim River?+
Some riverside restaurants allow swimming. The water is cold, so it is refreshing in summer.
What should I bring?+
A swimsuit, towel, closed shoes, sunscreen and a light layer for the cool cave.
Is lunch included?+
The product linked here includes a river lunch, but confirm the details when you book.