Have you ever seen a view so breathtaking that time stands still? Perhaps a historic scene that sets your imagination wild envisioning days of yore, or the serenity of an endless sea which instantly washes away the day’s stresses. As the old adage goes, you never get a second chance at a first impression and the bucket list-worthy view that greets guests at Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum leaves an impression that you won’t soon forget.
Taking pride of place on the aptly named Paradise Bay in the swish resort district of Göltürkbükü, Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum boasts the best beachfront on the Turkish Riviera and is an ideal destination for those searching for a summer of undisturbed bliss, where the only sounds are lapping waves and happy campers ooh-ing and aah-ing at the sights.
The property blankets an astonishing 60 acres of the Bodrum Peninsula, delicately adorning the hillside with minimalist structures that house its 130 rooms, suites and villas. Sleek and modern, the architecture seamlessly flows into the surrounds with a sophisticated subtlety that complements, rather than competes with, the landscape.
As for the interiors, honey-hued woods add warmth to contemporary spaces and the outdoors edges its way in, whether through wild courtyards, rainfall showers on private terraces or the skylight-lit bathtub that encourages stargazing while you soak.
Nabbing a room with uninterrupted vistas of the Aegean sea is a given — most accommodation options come equipped with incredible views courtesy of private sundecks and meticulously manicured gardens perfect for winding down after adventures or practising sun salutations with a sea breeze. Treat yourself to a one-bedroom villa if you’re settling in for the season, or upgrade to the four-bedroom Blue Beach villa if you’re (rather generously) hosting the entire family — the infinity pool and sprawling lawn make easy work of tiring out little ones.
Though there is much to keep guests occupied inside suites and villas, simply strolling the greenery-lined grounds can while away an afternoon. Bid adieu to schedules for the season and soak up the sun-drenched luxury of time.
What’s New
The property celebrates its 10th anniversary this year and is marking the occasion with a host of experiences, including the reveal of two extraordinary multi-bedroom villas equipped with terraces, pools and the utmost privacy. This season also sees the opening of Ferdi Baba, a locally renowned, seafood- focused restaurant serving elevated Aegean cuisine; the launch of a specially curated menu at Hakkasan; rejuvenating wellness packages; a visit from Chef Luigi Stinga, who helms the Michelin-starred Talea by Antonia Guida at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi; and the debut of Villa del Arte, an immersive art gallery showcasing works from emerging and established creatives.
Where To Eat
Meander the pathways and find yourself arriving at pristine beaches and the hotel’s 11 bars and restaurants (there are golf carts on hand to whizz you from beach to bar, should you forgo the option to smash your 10,000-step target).
Expansive breakfasts are served at Sofra in the main building overlooking the Aegean and, likely unsurprising to those familiar with Turkey, dining companions include the property’s curious cats, who are as well-behaved as you would expect from felines born and raised on the shores of a Mandarin Oriental resort. Elsewhere, Kurochan by Ioki serves Nikkei favourites by Nobu alum Scott Hallsworth and is an ideal sundowner spot — its beachside sister restaurant, Ioki on the Beach, offers a more casual affair on the sands. World-renowned Chinese restaurant Hakkasan also calls Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum home and comes alive at night, while Mandarin Bar beckons for expertly-crafted nightcaps.
What To Do
One of the (many) selling points of Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum is its three-storey spa, which features a dizzying amount of facilities and ensures you discover something new at every turn, including an indoor and outdoor pool, private couples cabanas, 12 treatment rooms, a Pilates studio, state-of-the-art gym and hammam. No time on your itinerary? This is the kind of spa you plan events around; feigning sickness and skipping your significant other’s golf excursion is a no-brainer.
The property is also home to a unique on-site shopping district brimming with favourites including Chanel, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Hermès, Audemars Piguet, Louis Vuitton and Chopard, alongside beach pop-ups and local boutiques.
Luxurious shopping sprees and beaches aside, Bodrum has long topped the lists of travellers fascinated by ancient history; a mere 20-minute drive from the resort lands you at world-famous sites. This includes the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus — one of the seven wonders of the ancient world — which was built in 353 BCE. Although it requires a fair amount of imagination to picture the structure in all its glory, it is an essential stop on any historical tour. Bodrum is also home to the classical Antique Theatre and the Castle of St. Peter, both of which provide sweeping views and a new perspective on an ancient, historically important destination that has largely become popularised thanks to its reputation as a party-lover’s paradise. Further afield is the ancient city of Ephesus, which is not only a UNESCO Heritage Site but one of the most significant and well-preserved ancient cities in Europe and home to the Temple of Artemis, another of the world’s seven wonders.
