With decades in the making, Bodrum has evolved into the Aegean's most quietly confident luxury destination. It's where life slows down, all thanks to its shimmering blue waves, the gentle coastal breeze that permeates under the golden sun from dawn to dusk. Its natural beauty has long been a primary captivator, and in recent years the coast's refined edge for glittering hotels with transformative quality stays and experiences has put Bodrum on the map.
Favoured by Turkey's in-the-know crowd and global A-list stars such as Kate Moss, The Carters and George Clooney, Bodrum is a destination whereby curated restoration works in tandem with nature to preserve its heritage while embracing modern elegance. So much so, that town is well on its way to becoming the next Saint-Tropez or Mykonos.
Where to stay
The Bodrum EDITION
There are places that you holiday, and then there are places that you already begin planning your return to whilst you're still on a trip. The Bodrum EDIITON effortlessly falls into the latter. Part curated sanctuary, part slow-living manifesto come to life, and wholly the reason Bodrum has quietly become the new destination for the luxury-inclined.
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The hotel contains 110 rooms and suites - many with private plunge pools and terraces that angle towards the rugged hills and endless blue seas. Guest services are of course available 24/7, as are the electric buggies stationed across the property - with steep hills, stairs, late nights, and early morning fitness classes, you'll be glad that they're there.
Mornings ease in gently here. A traditional Turkish breakfast spread- pillowy simit, olives plucked from local groves and platters of local fruit arrive with cold-pressed juice and sea views that reset any of life's woes. With this kind of start, the day is yours to plan out however you please. Whether it's a fitness class on the terrace (squats aren't so bad with an endless horizon in view), or SUP yoga for the sporty set.
By early evening, the momentum is yours to set, be it dinner at KITCHEN by Osman Sezener (expect nothing less than fresh local catch, seasonal Aegean flavours and aromatic herbs) followed by the EDITION's very own ice cream, or a glass of something chilled on the beach front. Or, for those looking for total peace and privacy, each room is complete with a balcony and room service which promises sea and silence. For the rest, the beach club stays open until the early hours of the morning as live saxophonists, bands and DJs play everything from house and Turkish techno to rhythmic beats and chart throwback songs across the decades.
Where to eat
Bagatelle
While Bagatelle may be situated in Yalikavak, you'll feel as though you've been whisked away to the South of France with its fusion of French and Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and seasonal dishes such as burrata from Puglia, pepper smoked beef carpaccio and razor clams.
Sait
A terrace on Yalikavak's marina, Sait boasts some of the freshest seafood you'll find in Bodrum, set against its simplistic yet chic venue, all eyes are on its standout dish - grilled octopus and an array of meze to choose from.
Lika
The search for vibrant flavours ends when you find yourself at LIKA. Indulge in the delicacies from all corners of the Mediterranean as Greek, Persian and Turkish delights collide as you dine on crowd pleasers including baby calamari, braised red seabream and more.
Where To Day Trip
Bodrum City Centre
Set in the heart of Bodrum is its city centre, where you'll find everything from castle ruins, to stunning whitewashed houses with blue accents, local markets, coffee shops by the harbour, museums and beaches.
Etrim Hali Carpet Village
For those looking to soak in a different kind of richness, Etrim Hali Carpet offers a quieter kind of luxury - one that is woven by hand. Nestled in the hills, this carpet-making village is steeped in a history where crafted rugs, home decor, and more is at the heart of what they do. Learn to weave or watch the experts as you sip on freshly brewed Turkish coffee.
Yalikavak
Best to arrive late in the afternoon, Yalikavak is known and loved for its relaxed boho vibe that eases throughout it. Venture in and out boutiques and beach clubs that line the marina. As the sun sets, choose from a number of restaurants to enjoy fresh seafood, right from the Aegean Sea.
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