4 reasons hotel+bistro, Yalikavak, near Bodrum, Turkey - Explore & Book

"The 4 they claim - serenity, design, quality, attitude - all apply, but there's one overriding reason to book here: it's our favourite hotel on the Bodrum peninsula (and we've checked out lots). So overlook the groany name and go for it. You'll find a cluster of bougainvillea-draped houses spilling down to the lush valley of Yalikavak, with the sea glimmering in the distance behind a sparkling pool. Each house has a handful of slick and stylish rooms, combining natural materials with modern comforts in an airy, all-white space. Down by the pool, you can kick back on low white sofas to the gentle beat of chilled jazz, play pool or darts in the sociable living room, or order a cocktail from the award-winning barman. If you fancy staying in, they do a tasty line in salads, wines and seafood; if not, bustling Bodrum is just a few bays away, with no shortage of boutiques, bars and nightlife. By day, you can hop on a gulet cruise, get a day pass to one of the beach clubs, go horse-riding or watersporting, or explore Bodrum castle. Highs The funky pool with its chillout music and white cushions is a cool place to top up your tan by dayAfter dark, with a ring of flickering torches and candlelit tables, it makes a magical spot for evening cocktails, tooBeing so near Bodrum, there's no shortage of things to do, but there's also an abundance of tranquil spots to sit and do nothing…Rates are refreshingly reasonable for an area aspiring to be the Turkish St. TropezGreat and always friendly staff Lows WiFi can be patchyThe Bodrum peninsula has come out in a rash of boxy holiday villages, though most are mercifully hidden out of sight from hereThe 'easy listening' music in the dining areas may not be to everyone's tasteOnly children aged 12 and over permitted, to preserve the tranquil atmosphere" - Michael Cullen