Christopher C.
Yelp
Caresse opened just last year and recently joined the Luxury Collection and Starwood. The hotel is attached to a condo village at the edge of Gumbet just outside of Bodrum proper. It is the last development on the bayside of the penninsula, providing both isolation and proximity.
This isn't the place to stay to be in the nightlife scene or daily action. It is relaxing and serene. I'd originally just planned to use it as a place to sleep and have breakfast, but there were so many different and unique places to sit, rest, reflect, and recline all over the place, with great views, access to water, and elegant, modern design, that I ended up spending a lot more time on property.
The hotel and condo development share a common entrance with security. Once waved in, you head down the hill (either in your car or taxi or in one of the resort's golf carts) to the hotel. Because of this layout and the hotel's location, you won't see anyone who isn't a guest or hotel staff during your stay, as no one can or does just wander by. The arrangement does make it a little less likely that you'll just spontaneously head off the property, but that's not necessarily a bad thing.
My room had a wide, clear view of both the sea and the infinity pool. Stunning. I enjoyed the modest beach and the pool immensely, as well as the ample chairs and interesting seats of every kinds sprinkled all over the place, including the wooden decks jetting over the sea. Food and beverage on the beach isn't ready yet, but a staffer often patrols the area for orders and then retrieves them from the pool lounge, up a couple of floors.
I often have a bit of trouble sleeping due to just small amounts of light getting in at night, and even due to little red lights on smoke detectors and clock displays. Caresse has this down to a science, and I slept perfectly because the room achieves complete darkness.
Breakfast in the Glass restaurant on the outside deck overlooking the pool and the sea was an ample mix of Turkish and European/American fare. Internet service was solid and reliable.
Caresse proved to be a perfect surprise after I'd booked it just to see the new SPG/Luxury hotel at a great rate. The staff doesn't seem large, but their friendly, knowledgeable, and very helpful. Looking forward to a return.
