Macakizi

Those wanting to relax with buckets of rosé and rub shoulders with beautiful American and British celebrities, Saudi petroleum heirs and a new class of young Russian businessmen, should look no further than sexy and sleek Macakizi.

• Sleek, contemporary design and fantastic water views from the rooms
• Glamorous crowd, including celebrities, models and business tycoons, at the beach club
• Excellent food prepared from local produce at the restaurant

The Macakizi moved between several locations in Bodrum before finding its permanent home on the northern coast of the Peninsula in 2000. Originally a 1970s bohemian enclave for Turkish socialite Ayla Emiroglu’s friends, the hotel is run now by Ayla’s son Sahir Erozan. Nestled amongst the shrub-covered hillside (a problem for those with mobility issues), Macakizi’s 74 rooms and suites peek out from behind rampant bougainvillea to the spectacular views of the bay below. The entire property recently underwent a full renovation, so every room has flat-screen TVs, mirrored walls, heated travertine floors, huge rain showers, and cushions and fabrics custom designed by Turkish artist Suat Akdemir. While not high luxury, the rooms offer a very comfortable retreat after a day on the beach. Book one of the sea view rooms higher up the hillside for a clearer view of the expansive bay and the beach club action below.

Macakizi has become the “it hotel,” a place to see and be seen. Guests aren’t lounging in their room all day at Macakizi, but rather sipping cocktails by the water, meeting new friends on the decks of the beach club, or hobnobbing at the lauded restaurant run by famous Turkish chef Avet Sahakyan. Guests also receive a credit card to use at the restaurant and beach bar, so there is never a need to sign receipts.

The property is sleek, fun, and a sight to behold in the summer months. Come here to get a taste of the glamorous scene in Bodrum – flashy (this is where Saudi wives come for a girl’s weekend on their yachts to let their hair down) but not garish. The music tones down by the evening, and all of the tipsy rabble-rousers head off to the clubs in nearby Türkbüku or Bodrum.

Those who want to experience Bodrum’s fabulous, scene, as well as one of the Peninsula’s best restaurants, without ever having to get in a car.