Turkey travelers--I want a beach resort in Kusadasi--ideas?
 

While in Istanbul we are staying in a "charming" hotel that is small and will give the "flavor" of Turkey. We want to spend 4 or 5 days relaxing at a resort environment in Kusadasi, so that we are central to sites like Ephesus, Aphrodisias and others. Please don't tell me we "should" stay outside the touristy type hotels, as a resort is exactly what I'm looking for.

I am not interested in the all-inclusive type buffet for 1000 guest type hotels, but a place with restaurants so we can dine on the property or go out, as we are moved to do so.

We are looking for beach access and 1 or more fabulous pools, and a health spa or hammam for turkish bath/ and or massage.

I have searched this forum, and the closest I have found is the Kismet, but there seem to be reports of problems from many travelers.

Looking forward to suggestions, thanks in advance.

I had a wonderful experience at the Kismet in June. What kind of problems did you read about? They upgraded us to a suite at no extra charge, the grounds were gorgeous, the food at the restaurant was good. I didn't check the pool out or the beach or swimming platform area. I don't think there was a spa though???? I have never read about any other property in this area that even remotely has the amenities of the Kismet. This place is slightly outside Kusadasi, and I thought that was great. I drove through the city a little and it didn't look at all appealing to me.

Thanks for your reply. Most recently, there was a warning posted on Turkey Travel Planner that some had experienced problems and were not satisfied with value.

How long did you stay, and what was your rate? Also, did you do day tours on your own, or with a guide?
I have been reading this site for months, trying to nail down our trip details, and now I want to confirm everything. Thanks for your help. I just now went back and found your trip report, which answered some of my questions. I will take another look at Kismet, but if anyone has other suggestions, they are welcomed.

Don't know if this will help or not. I went to Kusadasi a few years ago and there was a hotel called Pine Bay Beach Hotel. We went inside to have a look around and it was very nice. We said if we ever went back to Kusadasi we would stay there. It's obviously on the beach and from a quick web search it seems you can go half board or all inclusive.

Dear Barb,

I don't know if Charley is talking about Pine Bay Beach Hotel/Holiday Village or Pine Bay Marina Hotel. Beach Hotel is about 6 km. outside Kusadasi where the Marina Hotel is almost in the town centre overlooking Kusadasi and the marina. If you want to be so close to town centre (about 10 minutes on foot) and benefit from the other attractions in town go for the Marina Hotel. For more info visit their website

http://www.pinebay.com/eng/resort/index.asp

I also recommend Korumar Hotel http://www.korumar.com.tr/english/ and Adakule http://www.adakule.com/ (Mind you Adakule is the most tourity)

Enjoy your stay in Kusadasi.

With all good wishes.

I was talking about the one that is 6km out of town. It was a few years back now!

I've checked with the Kismet, and they have 4 nights available(I wanted 5) at $145 USD
The breakfast is included.

Pine Bay Beach Resort has all five days available for 125 Euro/day all-inclusive.(About $156 USD)

I'm thinking of going with Kismet, and spending 1 night in Bodrum, possibly at El Vino Hotel. Is 1 night and day enough to get a taste of Bodrum?

Should I rent a car for traveling around Kusadasi and down to Bodrum, or rely on buses?

We loved our stay at Kismet, and on the day we checked out to go to Samos, but found the boats cancelled, we headed back to the Kismet where they promptly put us up in another room -- nicely upgraded from our original one, but at the same reduced price we had paid.

I'd opt for the car! Driving in Turkey (we didn't in Istanbul) was wonderful and easy.

Another vote for the Kismet, the garden area is a great place to relax after a hard day being a tourist !!! The staff were very friendly.

Most difficult part of the Aegean for small cosy and beach front hotels... However one of the best chances you have Kismet or Korumar not with a beach beach but beach platforms and swimming pools. There are some hotels little out towards Davutlar where most summer residences could be another option. But I am not able to give name other than above. hope you will find what you look for.
Happy travelling,
Murat

Since I posted this message, I have read almost every review I could find on Kusadsi beach hotels. There are numerous large properties that seemed to fit the bill as far as amenities and location, but most seemed to be "package" type properties, so ultimately I was convinced that the Kismet was a good choice. I hooked up with an Istanbul based travel agent recommended by Tom Brosnahan of turkeytravelplanner.com , and she was able to reserve my 4 nights at $100 each. The quote I got direct from the hotel was $145. My hotels and domestic flights are booked, now I just need to list my "must-see" attractions, especially for Istanbul, and try to prioritize and plan my days there.

Woo-hoo! Only 10 days to go!