Cirbin Ali Cave, located within Beşkayalar Nature Park in Başiskele district of Kocaeli, is an unlit natural cave approximately 250 meters long, containing a lake and a waterfall.
Cirbin Ali Cave takes its name from the nickname Cirbin given by the locals to Veysel Candan's father. The cave is located in Beşkayalar Area, Aytepe-Menekşe Plateau, Yuvacık Town, Başiskele district; it is hidden behind a footpath near the Soğukpınar facilities, within Beşkayalar Nature Park. Also known as Veysel Candan Cave, this place is considered one of the region's most attractive natural spots, along with the nearby Soğukpınar Cave.
In the first 100 meters of the cave, a lake greets visitors, and in the inner part, which can be advanced for nearly 200 meters, a waterfall awaits. Visitors state that there is no lighting system in the cave and that in some sections, it is necessary to walk through water barefoot; therefore, they do not highly recommend entering without a headlamp and appropriate clothing. Care must also be taken regarding access to the road: many visitors report serious difficulty finding the cave because the location marked on Google Maps is incorrect. For the correct route, it is necessary to refer to the Beşkayalar Nature Park sign and follow the path that starts immediately behind the sign.
Related explorations: Places to visit in Kocaeli, Natural Beauties, Kocaeli natural beauties, Bayramoğlu Island (Peninsula).
Guide's Note
Cirbin Ali Cave is a place that attracts attention with its natural structure but challenges visitors due to its accessibility and conditions. The footpath leading to the cave is quite rugged; in some sections, you need to walk barefoot, and in others, you need to cross a cliff. The waterfall that appears after approximately 250 meters of progress is particularly emphasized by visitors who find this challenging journey worthwhile. The Soğukpınar facility, located near the cave entrance, offers a clean and peaceful accommodation spot with its wooden structures, mosque, stone oven, and barbecue area.
The inside of the cave is dry and quite traversable. On weekdays, the number of visitors is low, allowing for a quiet experience; on weekends, the area gets a bit crowded. However, multiple visitors state that the cave is insufficient in terms of maintenance and infrastructure.
- Location error: The marked location on Google Maps is reported as incorrect. It is recommended to target Beşkayalar Nature Park or Soğukpınar Facility for navigation, then follow the directions on the signs.
- No lighting: There is no lighting system in the cave; you need to bring a headlamp or flashlight.
- Lack of maintenance: The cave surroundings and access road are described as unmaintained.
- Challenging path: The path can be difficult for physically unprepared visitors; it is advised to go with appropriate clothing and shoes.
- Go in a group: Solo visits are not recommended; going with a group of at least two people is important for your safety.
When to Visit?
The most suitable period to visit the cave is during spring and autumn months. In these seasons, both the air temperatures are more compatible with the cave's internal conditions, and the surrounding nature park offers a lush green view. While visiting in summer is possible, the nearby Soğukpınar facility gets quite crowded on weekends; for those who want a quiet journey to the cave, weekdays are a much better option. Keep in mind that the footpath might be muddy and slippery during winter months.
How to Get There?
Private vehicle is the most reliable option to reach the cave. Instead of directly typing 'Cirbin Ali Cave' into navigation, start your journey by typing 'Beşkayalar Nature Park' or 'İSU Soğukpınar Facility'; visitors repeatedly emphasize that the cave's location on Google Maps is incorrect.
When going from Başiskele towards Aytepe, turn left onto the stabilized road where the Menekşe Plateau sign is located. You can park your car approximately halfway along the road, next to the Beşkayalar Nature Park sign placed horizontally on the ground. From there, follow the path for 100-200 meters to reach the cave entrance. Visiting without a car is quite difficult as public transport connections are extremely limited.
Things to Consider Before Visiting
Cirbin Ali Cave is not a tourist cave with prepared infrastructure; it is an unmaintained exploration spot that has remained in its natural state. Therefore, a few important points need to be considered:
- No lighting: There is no lighting system inside the cave. Do not enter without a headlamp or a powerful flashlight.
- Water crossings: In some sections, it is necessary to walk through water barefoot. Bring waterproof boots or sandals, and carry your valuables in waterproof bags.
- Cliff: Approximately 50 meters after the entrance, there is a cliff section. After carefully passing this point, you need to proceed in the direction from which the water comes.
- Unmaintained area: Visitors state that the cave surroundings are in need of maintenance. It can be challenging for children and inexperienced visitors.
- Go in a group: Solo visits are not recommended; going with a group of at least two people is important for your safety.
Photo Spots
The natural lake inside the cave offers impressive shots with sufficient light. Especially in the entrance section, the natural light seeping in from outside reflecting on the lake surface creates a beautiful photo opportunity. Since the inside of the cave is quite dark, a camera capable of high ISO values or a good smartphone with night mode will make your job easier. As humidity is high near the waterfall, protect your equipment. The path and forest texture around the cave entrance also provide a beautiful backdrop for nature photographers.
What to Eat Nearby?
The Soğukpınar Facility, located right next to the cave, features wooden structures, a mosque, clean restrooms, a stone oven, barbecue area, and seating. Visitors describe this facility as a quiet, clean, and pleasant stopover point. Thanks to the barbecue area, you can bring your own food and have a picnic. For a more comprehensive meal, you need to head to Başiskele district center or the İzmit area of Kocaeli.
How Much Time Should Be Allocated?
Cirbin Ali Cave is perfectly suited for a half-day program on its own. You can advance up to 250 meters inside the cave, see the lake and the waterfall; this takes an average of 1-1.5 hours. If you add walking in the surrounding Beşkayalar Nature Park and taking a break at the Soğukpınar Facility, a total of 3-4 hours of planning is sufficient. It is easily possible to go and return within a day from nearby locations like Istanbul or Kocaeli city center.
Route Suggestion
For those who want to fully explore Beşkayalar Nature Park and its surroundings, the following route might be useful: First, stop by the Soğukpınar Facility, get acquainted with the area, and park your car. Then, walk to Cirbin Ali Cave from the path behind the sign. After exploring the cave, you can follow the walking trails within the nature park and add the nearby Soğukpınar Cave to your visit list. On the way back, taking a break at the Soğukpınar Facility's barbecue and picnic area would be a nice conclusion.
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