Cappadocia Antique Gelveri Wine Cave is a distinctive cave bar located within the carved volcanic-rock architecture of Güzelyurt, a small historic town approximately 45 km east of central Aksaray in Turkey. Known historically by its Greek name Gelveri, Güzelyurt sits within a valley of monastic cave churches, Byzantine-era frescoes, and stone-cut houses. The wine cave reflects that subterranean character: the bar occupies a carved cave room beneath the hotel property, with rough-cut stone walls, low arched ceilings, and subdued lighting that creates an intimate, cellar-like atmosphere quite unlike any other bar in Aksaray province.
The drinks programme centres on Turkish wine and raki. A rotating selection of regional Anatolian wines — primarily reds and whites from Cappadocian and Central Anatolian producers — is served by the glass and bottle, alongside raki, ayran, and soft drinks. The cave setting and wine-focused menu attract culturally curious travellers who have spent the day visiting Güzelyurt's Byzantine cave churches and the valley walking routes that cut through the surrounding landscape. The crowd tends toward adults over 30, including domestic Turkish cultural tourists, European heritage travellers, and small-group tour clients.
The atmosphere is quiet and contemplative, well matched to the surroundings. There is no DJ and no amplified music; any background sound is at low volume, typically Turkish folk or classical. Dress code is entirely relaxed — the venue caters to walkers and day-trippers arriving directly from outdoor excursions. Hours are seasonal, running approximately 18:00 to 23:00 from spring through early autumn. No cover charge applies.
Güzelyurt is a small settlement with very limited evening facilities; Gelveri Wine Cave is one of the very few options for an evening drink in the area. Visitors on multi-night Aksaray itineraries often include a day trip to Güzelyurt, making the wine cave a natural and atmospheric endpoint. Reaching Güzelyurt from central Aksaray requires a rental car, taxi, or arranged transfer, as public transport connections are infrequent.
Good to know
- Hours
- Daily 18:00-23:00 (seasonal)
- Signature
- Turkish wine and raki served in a carved cave room below the hotel
Location
Yukarı Mahallesi, Akropol Sokak No:14, 68500 Güzelyurt, Aksaray, Turkey
38.2761, 34.3678 View on map
Highlights
- Cave bar carved into the volcanic rock of historic Güzelyurt (ancient Gelveri), roughly 45 km east of Aksaray
- Anatolian and Cappadocian regional wines served by the glass in an intimate stone-walled cave setting
- Rare evening option in a heritage village known for Byzantine cave churches and valley walking routes
- Low-arched cave architecture and subdued lighting create an atmosphere found nowhere else in Aksaray province
- Raki alongside wine, accommodating both Western visitors and domestic Turkish guests
Tips for visiting
- Visit in the evening after exploring Güzelyurt's valley routes and cave churches during daylight — the combination makes for a full cultural day trip from Aksaray
- The cave bar is seasonal; confirm it is currently open before making the journey from central Aksaray
- Transport from Aksaray requires a car or pre-booked taxi — no reliable evening bus service connects the towns
- Turkish wine availability changes with the season; ask about current bottles rather than expecting a fixed list
- The venue closes by 23:00 — arrange a return taxi to Aksaray before settling in for the evening if not staying overnight in Güzelyurt
Frequently asked questions
Is the Gelveri Wine Cave open to non-hotel guests?
The cave bar primarily serves the hotel's own guests but typically welcomes walk-in visitors, particularly travellers who have come to Güzelyurt for the day. Calling ahead to confirm is advisable, especially outside peak season.
How do visitors travel from Aksaray to Güzelyurt?
The drive from central Aksaray takes approximately 45–50 minutes via the D300 highway. Taxis are available from Aksaray but should be arranged in advance; public bus connections are infrequent and do not run to a tourist schedule.
Is the wine cave open year-round?
The wine cave operates seasonally, generally from spring through early autumn. Hours and availability may be reduced or suspended entirely in winter months.
What wines are available?
The selection focuses on Turkish regional wines from Anatolian producers, including Cappadocian labels. The list changes seasonally and is relatively short; staff can advise on what is currently available.
Is food available at the wine cave?
Light accompaniments are typically offered alongside drinks. A fuller meal is served in the hotel's main dining room, which operates separately from the cave bar.