If you want a unique experience without sacrificing any modern amenities and conveniences, then the Kelebek Cave Hotel is perfect for you. Our room was, indeed, fashioned into a cave from one of the many rocky hills that abounds in this part of Cappadocia, but it was anything but rustic or primitive. It combined the best of the ancient and the modern: the space was carved out of rock but it had a beautiful modern bathroom with both a shower and a sizeable bathtub. The grounds of the hotel were even more amazing than the rooms. Aside from the spectacular views of the surrounding area, the grounds featured a lovely garden with plenty of trees for shade, a great pool if you want sun, and a nice dining area where a breakfast buffet with tons of options is served daily. In addition, the hotel has a nice hammam spa that offers a variety of massages and treatments. We got Turkish massages and they were wonderful.
The only negative was that our room, while cozy, was small and dark in comparison to others in the same price category. We stayed in suite 105 (it was the only one available in that category when we booked) and did have the opportunity to glance into a few of the other suites around the rose garden, all of which seemed considerably larger than ours, with more windows and light. We didn't complain because the room was fine and we didn't feel like moving, but it's important to note the disparity in rooms as other reviewers have pointed out.
The hotel is located just a short walk uphill from the center of town. But if you want to explore the area around the hotel, there are plenty of fantastic restaurants just a stroll away. One of the best is Seten, a more upscale-feeling yet moderately-priced restaurant, which offers a 10% discount to guest staying at the Kelebek.
One of the most interesting and enjoyable features of the Kelebek is the organic breakfast served on a nearby farm that belongs to the owners of the hotel. Make sure you sign up for this experience when you check in. The manager (who is the owner's nephew) was very warm and hospitable and gave us an insider’s perspective on the way that locals have lived, worked, and eaten in this wondrous place for generations. The farm itself is nestled in a little valley that seems like paradise. They offer up servings of locally produced food including honeycomb, truly organic free-range eggs (you can see chickens roaming the ground as you leave), freshly bread bread, candied fruits and vegetables, and lots of other delicious food grown right there.
The service was lovely throughout and our only regret was not having stayed for more than three nights.
