Koza Cave Hotel: The “King of Rooftops” in Cappadocia
Family-run warmth meets the highest terrace view in Göreme. An honest review for the discerning traveler.
TurkeyHotel Editor’s Verdict
Koza is not just a hotel; it’s a vantage point. With the highest inhabited terrace in Göreme, you don’t look up at the balloons—you look them in the eye. Run by the Dural family, it combines Dutch eco-sensibility with authentic Anatolian hospitality.
If you have spent any time scrolling through Cappadocia hashtags on Instagram, you have likely already seen Koza Cave Hotel. But strip away the influencers and the flying dresses, and what do you actually get?
You get substance. Unlike many “cave” hotels that are essentially concrete rooms with stone cladding, Koza offers 10 authentic, restored cave suites. But the real magic lies in the Dural family’s philosophy: a commitment to sustainability (grey water recycling, upcycled furniture) that is rare in this region.
The “Koza” Experience: Why It’s Famous
1. The Rooftop (The USP)
Let’s be direct: You are booking this hotel for the terrace. Koza sits at the very pinnacle of Göreme’s inhabited zone. While guests at other hotels are craning their necks to see the balloons, at Koza, the balloons often dip into the valley below you. The 360-degree view of Pigeon Valley and Rose Valley is unmatched.
2. The Rooms
With only 10 rooms, the attention to detail is high. The King Suite is the showstopper, featuring its own private terrace. However, even the standard stone rooms feature handcrafted furniture and “living history” vibes. Note that because these are real caves, natural temperature regulation is excellent—cool in summer, warm in winter.
3. Sustainability & “Dusk by Koza”
The owner, Derviş, lived in the Netherlands for decades, bringing back a “Dutch eco-mindset.” This isn’t greenwashing; it’s structural. From recycled ironwork to water conservation, the footprint is light. In the evenings, the terrace transforms into “Dusk by Koza,” a reservation-only bar serving craft cocktails—a sophisticated alternative to the loud backpacker bars in town.
