Mustafapaşa
Mustafapaşa, the old Greek town of Sinasos in Cappadocia: stone mansions built with caviar money from…
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Monday, November 9, 2026
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Photo: courtesy of Gamirasu Cave Hotel
Thirty-five cave rooms in a restored Byzantine monastic retreat in the village of Ayvalı, south of Ürgüp, with a frescoed church in its grounds.
Gamirasu Cave Hotel lies in Ayvalı, a small village about 10 km (6 miles) south of Ürgüp in Cappadocia. The hotel fills a restored Byzantine monastic retreat. It has 35 cave rooms and suites, each designed on its own.
The rooms keep the original cave architecture of the old monastic setting. Within the hotel grounds stands Ayvalı Church, a 12th-century Byzantine church with frescoes on its walls.
Ayvalı was once called Aravan. To the north, it borders Mustafapaşa, once called Sinasos. İçeridere Valley begins right at the hotel's door. For example, a walking route of about 7 km (4.3 miles) runs past cave houses, rock-cut storerooms and small springs. At the end, Golgolu Hill looks out over the Damsa Dam.
Each suite has its own character, from the Byzantine King Suite to the Hittite Suite and the Eagle Nest Suite. The kitchen cooks organic food, and there is also a heated outdoor pool.

We suggest it for travelers who want a village and a valley at the door, rather than the shops of Göreme. However, you will need a car or a guide for the main sights, so it pairs well with a private tour.
Our Hidden Cappadocia tour visits Mustafapaşa, the next village north, and the rock churches of the Soğanlı Valley. From Ayvalı, it makes a natural full day out. On a free morning, walk İçeridere Valley straight from the hotel.
We book your stay at Gamirasu Cave Hotel. For more cave hotels, read our list of The 5 Best Cave Hotels in Cappadocia, Village by Village.
Updated: October 31, 2026.
From Ayvalı, write to us with your nights and we will plan the valleys. Our guide in Cappadocia can meet you at the hotel.
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