The Best Cave Hotels in Cappadocia, Turkey

In the heart of Göreme city centre, the Charming Cave Hotel is built into the volcanic rock of Cappadocia’s famous landscape. Its vaulted ceilings and traditional-style Turkish decor will make you feel like you’re getting an authentic piece of the historic Cappadocia experience. The hotel restaurant serves traditional mezes of olives and cheese, and the breakfast buffet comprises local delicacies such as home-made jams and local honey. Don’t leave without posing for photos on the cushion-festooned terrace, with stupendous views of the landscape and the ever-present balloons.

Though not technically a cave hotel, the Old Town Stone House in central Göreme stands out with hand-carved wooden details, ornamented ceilings and beautifully intricate furniture. Although the overall feel is rustic, this cave hotel has all the modern conveniences you’ll want, such as Wi-Fi, LCD TVs and more. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in bed before ramping up the adrenaline levels with hiking, cycling and horse riding – just ask the staff to arrange these for you.

This traditionally styled hotel on Göreme’s southern edge lets you experience what it’s like to live among the rock caves of Cappadocia, providing an authentic atmosphere. With a bloom-filled terrace overlooking the magnificent fairy chimneys, this cave hotel’s rooms have beautiful local carpets, stone carvings and vaulted ceilings for a historical feel. Enjoy local cuisine in the hotel restaurant and a breakfast buffet of classic Turkish cold cuts in the garden.

Charming and rustic, the Henna Hotel is a free-standing stone building in the city centre of Göreme, with a terrace overlooking the pockmarked landscape. Inside, high ceilings with ornate details and traditional decor feel like a journey back in time, but with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi. In the mornings, enjoy your traditional Turkish breakfast in the lounge, with its lovely arched ceilings. For tips and advice on tours, speak with the staff, who can book that essential hot-air balloon ride and much more.

This castle-like cave hotel in Göreme is carved out of fairy chimney rock formations that date back to the Hittite, Roman and Byzantine periods. Colourful cloth textiles lend warmth to the stark stone surroundings, and the facilities are far from medieval. Free Wi-Fi minibars, flat-screen TVs and coffee machines bring these caves into the 21st century. If you’re looking to indulge, the on-site spa provides a Turkish bath, saunas and a gym to help you unwind and relax.

The heritage of ancient civilisations combines with the craftsmanship of talented architects to create this cave-like hotel in Uçhisar. Wake to an indulgent breakfast of cold meats, cheeses and figs on the hotel’s balcony and enjoy panoramic views of the area’s unique rock formations. In the evening, observe the hot-air-balloon-filled sky as the sun sets. Two of the suites even include Jacuzzis, so you can enjoy the view in ultimate luxury.

If you’re looking to impress your loved one, look no further than Mithra Cave Hotel in Göreme, possibly Turkey’s most romantic escape. Browse through the different honeymoon packages, and prepare to be wooed by the Cappadocia skyline and architecture – if you ever want to leave your room, that is. Draped curtains surround the circular French beds, and in-room Jacuzzis make for a memorable trip with your partner. In the evening, chow down on traditional Turkish kebabs on the terrace with a view.

Attention to detail is key at Millstone Cave Suites. Hand-carved stone walls and aged teak wood furniture, specially made in Indonesia, decorate the spacious chambers at this cave hotel. Step outside to enjoy the incredible views of Göreme, Red Valley and Pigeon Valley, visible from the hilltop hotel’s balcony, which also provides a perfect vantage point for the Cappadocia hot-air-balloon display. All rooms have internet, TVs and bathtubs with provided bath salts. And the on-site Millocal Restaurant serves local dishes prepared in a stone oven – make sure you try its speciality drip-brew coffee.

Claiming to be “Europe’s best luxury boutique hotel”, the Museum Hotel has collected many awards over the years – and you can see why. It has a unique location, offering unrivalled views of the nearby districts, with Mt Erciyes towering overhead. The name comes from the founder’s antique collection, with pieces from the Ottoman, Seljuk, Roman and Hittite periods on display. The colourful, eccentric interiors add to the magic of your stay at this unique living museum. Taste authentic Turkish cuisine at the Lil’a restaurant, and don’t forget to unwind with a massage, either in your room or on the terrace with the Cappadocia scenery surrounding you.