Our History
Located within the historical texture of Ayvalı Village, Gamirasu Cave Hotel combines its cave structure bearing traces from the Byzantine period with modern comfort.
Gamirasu Cave Hotel is located in Ayvalı Village, formerly known as Aravan, a historic settlement approximately 10 kilometers south of Ürgüp. Surrounded by Cappadocia’s unique geological formations, rock structures, and valleys, this region offers visitors not only remarkable natural beauty but also a rich history spanning thousands of years.
Research conducted in the area indicates that Ayvalı and its surroundings have been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological findings include obsidian traces dating back to the Stone Age, ceramic remains from the Assyrian period, and a bronze casting furnace from the Hittite era. In this respect, Ayvalı is one of Cappadocia’s most valuable destinations, not only from a touristic perspective but also for its archaeological significance.
The area surrounding Ayvalı Village is also home to frescoed cave churches dating back to the Early Byzantine Christian period. Since these sites lie outside the main tourist routes, they have preserved their untouched atmosphere over the centuries. Ayvalı Church, a 12th-century Byzantine church located within the grounds of Gamirasu Cave Hotel, is an important part of this historical heritage with its remarkable frescoes.
İçeridere Valley, which begins right at the hotel’s doorstep, is one of Cappadocia’s hidden valleys waiting to be discovered. The valley features natural cave houses, rock-carved spaces once used as storage areas, traces of underground cities, and small natural springs. The fact that some cave houses are still used as living spaces today keeps the connection between the past and present alive.
With a walking route of approximately 7 kilometers, İçeridere Valley offers guests the opportunity to discover the peaceful and natural side of Cappadocia. At the end of the valley, visitors can enjoy impressive views of Damsa Dam and its surroundings from Golgolu Hill. This unique setting makes Gamirasu Cave Hotel not only a place to stay, but also a gateway to Cappadocia’s history, nature, and cultural heritage.
Cappadocia is the historical name of the region located 300 km south of Ankara, which today is associated with Nevsehir, Kayseri, Nigde, and Aksaray. This region covers an area of 100 square kilometers, with Urgup and Goreme at its center.
Due to the wide expanse of the region, you will need a vehicle no matter which hotel you stay in, or you can join tours organized by the hotels.
Ayvalı village is located 10 km southeast of the district of Ürgüp, bordering Mustafapaşa (Sinasos) to the north, Mazı to the south, Cemil village to the east, and Bahçeli villages to the west. Its population is around 1,200 people.
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