Amy Adejokun
Section editor
Located in the middle of nature on a well kept, small bay, the Babaylon hotel is great for both restful and sporty holidays. Watersports fans will like the wind.
In Ciftlik bay, 4 miles from Cesme, opposite the Greek island of Kios. Although the Club Pomelan is just next door, the setting is natural. To reach the hotel from Izmir airport, located 56 miles away, allow 1 hour and 15 minutes.
The rooms are bright and comfortable (and carpeted). They all overlook the sea and have a balcony, bathroom with bath (no hairdryer), telephone, minibar, satellite television, and central air conditioning system (10 hours per day).
Built in 1995, the Babaylon was renovated in 2002. It has a main 3-storey building (with 111 rooms) in a rather impersonal style. For charm, we prefer the pool and clear spaces which overlook the sea and the private bay which is prettily laid out in several terraces.
A pleasant restaurant serving local and international cuisine and offering a view of the pool and the sea through the large bay windows.
The small beach is opposite a private bay with three terraces in exposed stonework. You will deplore the lack of sand, but the setting is still very pleasant, with very clear water and a number of banks of roses. You can enjoy the numerous loungers and parasols, have a drink on the beach or a snack from the kiosk above. Unfortunately watersports can only be practised outside the hotel.
In July, Cesme hosts international competitions of sailors and windsurfers. The hotel offers a day excursion by schooner (a typical Turkish fishing boat that has been overhauled) which goes to Donkey Island, the thermal waters and the creeks of Cesme.
massage, beauty salon, sauna
tennis, gym, aqua gym, football, beach volley, paddle boats, canoe, step, water-polo, sports
With its two panoramic towers, three football arenas, eleven restaurants and innumerable illuminated lifts, the Adakule offers a vast range of activities in a slightly off-beat setting...
Built along the Ladies Beach to the south of Kusadasi, the Asena has just been renovated in a modern style that will suit clubbing fans. Between trips out, you can go to the restaurant, mini-pool, and enjoy the beautiful view from the panoramic terrace.
Small houses in a light architectural style inspired by antiquity - this is the Atlantis club which occupies a small hill where there are caves and private creeks. Relaxation, leisure activities, sports and gastronomy are the assets of this feel-good club.
A club on a human scale that will charm you with its authenticity, charming setting, and fun activities. You will feel at home in the countryside.
Very recent, the Sheraton hotel is the most upmarket in the region. Programme: luxury, calm and sumptuousness, and quality services.
The Club Sultan is set in luxurious gardens next to a superb creek sheltered from the wind. Its exceptional location and multiple pools and gardens make it one of the nicest hotels in Gumuldur.
The Cactus Paradise is a member of the Turkish Cactus Hotels chain and, just like its nearby cousin, the Club Yali, from the same group, it has good quality facilities although perhaps a little thinner on the ground. The entertainment here, however, is certainly more discreet, so guests can choose the kind of holiday that suits them best. The main building was constructed in 2004 and is severely lacking in the charm department, although the outdoor facilities are certainly spacious enough to accommodate all of the hotel's guests comfortably, even during high season.
The brand new, recently completed Paloma Pasha is already considered as one of the jewels in the Club Eldorador crown. Ideally located at the far end of Ozdere beach, this upmarket establishment offers a 24 hour ultra-inclusive board basis and will undoubtedly be popular with well-being enthusiasts, as it also boasts a wonderful spa. Not only that, children will enjoy the waterslides, sports enthusiasts will be pleased to discover the hotel's fitness centre and many other sports facilities, and those who enjoy fine dining will be delighted with the 3 gourmet restaurants. The hotel's absolutely gigantic swimming pool actually runs right around the resort!
The Mövenpick Hotel Izmir is a comfortable and convenient choice in this seaside Turkish city. This five-star address attracts a mixed foreign and mostly business clientele but it's a smart choice for any holidaymaker looking for location, location, location.
Very recent, the Sheraton hotel is the most upmarket in the region. Programme: luxury, calm and sumptuousness, and quality services.
With a private marina full of yachts and sailing boats, the Dauphin d'Or is reminiscent of Monaco. Located in Cesme bay, this vast holiday village offers all the facilities and comfort you would expect from a quality hotel.
The Richmond Ephesus is a large modern hotel located on one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Its villas, pools with slide, and welcoming attitude to children mean that it is great for families.
The Club Sultan is set in luxurious gardens next to a superb creek sheltered from the wind. Its exceptional location and multiple pools and gardens make it one of the nicest hotels in Gumuldur.
Built on a rocky peninsula, the Korumar hotel has a beautiful panoramic view over two bays, and is only 1 mile from the centre of Kusadasi. Its private creek, large pool and many facilities with sea view make it particularly pleasant.
The Ephesus Princess is a large complex located on one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. With its endless list of leisure facilities, sound system amphitheatre, kids club to the glory of Disney, aquapark and heliport... it could almost be America!
The Surmeli Efes, located on one of the most beautiful beaches in the region, has all the activities you would expect from a modern hotel. However, it could do with some renovation.