Despite being just a short hop from Antalya’s bustling old town, BIJAL feels like its own private island, minus the jet lag. Channelling the spirit of a far-flung island escape with Maldivian-style villas, a talc-soft private beach and meticulous attention to detail, you’ll see why this place is already luring those looking for something altogether more low-key. Opened in March 2024 by the brains behind JOALI Maldives, this ultra-exclusive retreat brings tropical serenity to Turkey’s bustling Riviera. There are just 19 private villas, each with lush gardens, Balinese-inspired pools, sleek, light-filled interiors filled with handwoven Anatolian textiles and ceramic pendant lamps crafted by Turkish artisans, alongside a personal on-call butler to cater to your every whim. Days drift by between the lake-like pool, lying horizontal on a beachfront cabana and an array of activities – from sunrise pilates on the terrace, to guided coastal hikes. Or maybe just a snooze-inducing ayurvedic in-villa massage. Dining is a highlight – from just-caught seafood at Mavi to Anatolian classics at Terra, washed down with knockout sunsets and sweeping sea views.
Address: Büyükkumluca Mahallesi, Bijal Hotel, Konyaaltı, Antalya, Türkiye.
Ethno Belek
Forget cookie-cutter resort living, this hotel leans into its Anatolian roots with style, blending local craftsmanship and culture into every corner. Opened in 2024, it’s already turning heads with its bold mix of tradition and modernity. The architecture is grand but playful with domed roofs, mosaic tiles and lush landscaped gardens filled with native flora. The 200+ rooms and suites are all about earthy tones, rich textures and handmade details, with terraces that look out over olive groves, infinity pools, or the glistening Med beyond. There’s a sense of warmth here that’s rare in large resorts; staff greet you like family and your personal concierge seems to appear just before you realise you need them. Travelling with the sprogs? They’ll be as holiday-happy as you with a lively mini-village, while you dip between hammam rituals, rooftop yoga or sun-drenched lunches under vine-draped pergolas. Dining leans into regional flavours – expect fire-grilled meats, tangy pomegranate molasse and just-baked flatbreads served with flair.
Address: Ethno Belek, Kadriye Mahallesi, Belek, Serik, Antalya, Türkiye.
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