Bodrum Loft - Bodrum, Turkey
Turkey boasts a distinct and exclusive climate, undoubtedly attributed to its exceptional geographical positioning. Straddling the crossroads of Western Asia and Southeastern Europe, Turkey's breathtaking landscapes have been sculpted by the embrace of saline seas, the touch of arid soils, and the radiant glow of an intense sun. With each visit, my affection deepens as I find myself captivated by its enchanting pine forests, warm-hearted locals, and the delightful array of Turkish delicacies that beckon the senses.
Jutting into the Aegean, the Bodrum Peninsula lies opposite the Greek island of Kos and between Turkey's brasher resort areas of Kusadasi and Marmaris. With its marinas, clubs and smartly-dressed clientele from Istanbul and beyond, the feel of the peninsula is French Riviera with an exotic twist. The cuisine, the bazaars and the hammams are inherently oriental, while the culture is an easygoing variety of Islamic: the mix of mosques and bikini-lifestyle is optimally achieved. Development is carefully monitored, and much of the peninsula retains an intrinsic charm. Inland there are pine-clad hills, and narrow roads; coastal towns and villages remain low rise, and are dotted with flowering bougainvillaea. Although the beaches in Bodrum generally are underwhelming, many of the hotels have wooden jetties, furnished with white umbrellas, sun loungers and scattered cushions, with ladders into the glorious turquoise water below.
The stunning Loft pool
The property
Bodrum Loft is situation in the secluded Deminbuku Bay, an enclave of greenery with the backdrop of the Aegean Sea. Built upon a base of sun-kissed Aegean beaches gently caressed by the waves, surrounded by graceful floating pontoons adorned with inviting loungers, this resort showcases meticulously designed gardens and terraces shaded by lush trees. These lush grounds are home to a blend of Italian and Aegean dining establishments. Complementing these culinary options are a selection of vibrant bars, a refreshing pool, a rejuvenating spa, and a fully-equipped gym. All of these amenities are harmoniously arranged alongside spacious, elegantly appointed villas and suites with a minimalist aesthetic. As a backdrop to this idyllic setting, the glistening sea remains an ever-present and soothing presence.
The gym being one of the main draws for me, it truly has every bell and whistle you could imagine. Yoga, Pilates and personal training options are also available on the gym menu should you opt for a fitness activity during your stay.
Our villa
And what is to be expected from the rooms with a setting like this? Let’s start with the views, which look out over the stunning Aegean sea below. The decor is very much Japandi meets minimalist - with grown-up undertones and plenty of exposed wood. There are no cars on the property, and navigating around from the villa to the beach and pool is done through electric buggies summoned by mobile phone.
The main dining area in the villa
Each cubist-style villa is simplistic in the best way, the furniture complimenting the endless sea backdrop from every window. The bathrooms are wide and spacious, with a doorless rainfall shower and heated toilets. Our villa came with two bedrooms, a full kitchen area and laundry room. This property invites the outdoors inside, and nature is evidently part of almost every feature.
Dining at the Loft
The property houses two restaurants; Paper Moon, and Elia. The world-famous Italian Paper Moon from Milan is located right by the water at the property, and offers regional Italian favourites in quite possibly one of the most romantic restaurants I’ve been to.
For the latter, think classic Turkish cuisine with a modern twist. We enjoyed a full Turkish breakfast here before we checked out.
Breakfast is served!
With such an incredible array of restaurants and facilities with that underlying consistent luxury, Bodrum Loft truly reigns as Bodrum’s most accomplished hideaway - and has made it to one of my favourite properties globally. With all the luxurious benefits of a larger hotel, but the personable feeling of staying in a boutique hotel, this is a place you'll want to come back to again and again. It really was an exceptional stay, and genuinely intend to stay at this gem of a property every time I revisit the Turkish Riviera.
Thank you to Molly and Derya for such a memorable stay.
Address: Göltürkbükü, 48483 Bodrum/Muğla, Türkiye