D Maris Bay
Following a year long renovation, D Maris Bay has re-opened its doors and is back with a vengeance.
Located on the hillside in the Datça Peninsula, the D Maris is surrounded by pineforests, islands and volcanic mountains, and many of the rooms have views of the panorama, including of course the Aegean Sea. There are 194 rooms and suites, and most of the deluxe suites have a bathtub on the balcony, ideal for soaking up the spectacular views.
Also in the enclave of the Datça Peninsula are five beaches (one of which has been decreed a 'Silence Beach' - a slightly more glamorous take on the quiet carriage on trains), and the hotel itself has a gym, a spa with a hammam, indoor and outdoor swimming pools,and tennis courts where lessons can be arranged. There is a dive centre across the bay, as well as a sailing school, and guests can explore the nearby Greek islands on a private yacht charter.
There are four restaurants at DMaris Bay serving gourmet Ottoman and Aegean cuisine, and seven bars from which to choose from.
Why We Love It
The Datca Peninsula is known for having the third highest level of oxygen in the world, and is therefore said to have natural healing properties that date back to 12th Century. True or not, it makes us feel better already, psychologically at least.
Kempinski Barbaros Bay
Overlooking the Aegean Sea, this modern resort hotel is ideal for families and anybody looking for a wide range of facilities and activities.
Each of the hotel's rooms has its own balcony and beautiful views over the bay; and the suites have two bathrooms - perfect for families - and a Jacuzzi.
The hotel and its surroundings offer a wide variety of activities for all ages, including yachting from the private marina. There is also a private beach complete with watersports centre. Massages and beauty or health treatments are available at the extensive Six Senses spa.
You won't go hungry here; guests can choose from Italian, Asian or Turkish restaurants, as well as al fresco dining on the beach, poolside, terrace, or at the grill.
As well as being able to enjoy a wide range of sporting activities, younger guests are very well catered for at the Kempi Kids Club and the Turtle Club kids restaurant. Better still, they can now do yoga...yes, yoga. If everyday life is starting to take its toll, children from the age of six learn breathing techniques and simple poses through storytelling.
Why We Love It
The Kempinski claims to have the largest swimming pool in Bodrum... we don't know, we haven't measured!
Villa Mandarin
This intimate hideaway near southwest Turkey's beautiful coastline was opened in 2007 and is one of the area's most exclusive retreats.
With magnificent views over the sea, the eight spacious rooms have been tastefully decorated in a traditional style with bespoke, hand made wooden furniture and the bathrooms all have Jacuzzi baths.
Delicious breakfasts of homemade breads, jams and eggs cooked to order are served on the dining terrace or in your room and in the evening, enjoy a gourmet five course meal which focuses on traditional recipes using fresh local ingredients.
Walking is high on the list of things to do in the region as the hotel lies alongside the famous Lycian Way. However if you'd like something a little less energetic, there are several archaeological sites nearby or why not spend a day on a traditional wooden gullet cruising around the stunning Turquoise Coast. Scuba diving and paragliding can also be arranged.
Why We Love It
For the ultimate private holiday, Villa Mandarin can be rented in its entirety - perfect for a group of friends or a family.
Hillside Beach Club
With its stunning location overlooking Turkey's glittering Aegean and backed by pinewood forests, Hillside Beach Club is dreamy beyond words. Boasting three private beaches - two of which provide adult-only exclusivity - and with a generous selection of activities, restaurants and entertainment, it is an ideal spot for a fun family holiday or couples getaway.
The bright white rooms - many of which have their own private terraces with views over the sea or gorgeous gardens - are calming and comfortable; the perfect oasis to return to after a day immersed in the exotic surroundings. Ranging from the Double Park View Rooms to the luxurious Superior Double and Family Rooms there are plenty of options for guests to choose from.
Children are well-catered for at the Hillside Beach Club, with two pools, including one with four slides. At the kids club, there is a daily entertainment programme for all ages, offering everything from DJ courses and beach volleyball to sailing and boat trips (some with an additional charge). Come evening, entertainment varies from films under the stars on the beach, to afterparties at Pasha Bar.
Adults, meanwhile, can get away from it all on the private adult-only Silent Beach or Serenity Beach, where early morning yoga classes are held. Here phones and gadgets are banned, guaranteeing the ultimate digital detox on your holidays.
Why We Love It
With its adult-only Silent Beach and fun kids club, Hillside Beach Club offers the perfect getaway for couples and families alike.
