Macakizi

Though it’s hardly the household name that some other Mediterranean destinations are, Turkey’s Bodrum Peninsula can’t stay secret for long. The combination of hilly seaside geography and crystal blue waters isn’t exactly a hard sell. And the hotels aren’t half bad either — Maçakizi, for its part, is the kind of stylish and sophisticated luxury hotel that’ll put a jealous glint in the eyes of Côte d’Azur or Greek Isles hoteliers.

It’s named after the owners, a mother-and-son team — apparently the lady’s nickname is “Ace of Spades,” and we suspect it’s a good idea to stay out of any high-stakes card games while you’re on premises. Fortunately there’s no end of other diversions, from the beach club, where the beautiful people of Istanbul lounge on decks over the waters of Turkbuku bay, to the gardens, the restaurant, and the bar. This last is no typical bar — Turks take their nightlife seriously, and there’s a DJ on duty most nights.

As for the accommodations, the Maçakizi feels smaller than its eighty-odd rooms. The décor is breezy and minimalist, but never harsh — this place is meant to be all about the good life, and on that it certainly delivers. All mod cons are present, and yet there’s little in the way of flash — imagine a room in the house of a well-heeled and well-connected local friend, and you’re on your way there.

Please note: Macakizi is open seasonally from late April through late October.