When you book a hotel for the first time, there’s often a moment of anxiety. Will it meet expectations? What if the beds are uncomfortable, the décor shabby or the food poor? Perhaps you made your decision based on TripAdvisor reviews or Facebook recommendations, but what one person loves, another might hate.

If there’s one place these fears are generally unfounded, it’s Antalya. The area is renowned for its superb choice of luxury hotels offering the very highest standards of food, entertainment and accommodation.

Holidaymakers return year after to year to enjoy the legendary Turkish hospitality and the region’s many attractions. Those seeking to buy a holiday home in Antalya often choose to combine viewing trips with a stay in one of the area’s top hotels – it is the perfect chance to indulge yourself, after all. And for many people – expats, visitors and Turkish citizens – a luxury Christmas and/or New Year break in Antalya is an annual highlight.

The global pandemic has of course had a huge impact on tourism in Antalya, as it has everywhere. But the swift reaction of the Turkish authorities to manage the spread of Covid-19 and roll out the vaccination programme means hopes are high for the coming season.

As borders begin to open and travel restrictions ease, Antalya will be top of the list for many people booking a holiday in Turkey. With Antalya Airport on the doorstep, it’s easily accessible whether travelling direct from overseas or on a domestic flight from Istanbul. Traditionally, guests in Antalya’s top hotels come primarily from the UK, Russia, Germany and Scandinavia; it remains to be seen whether recovery from the pandemic affects this, but the demand is certainly still there.

So, if you’re among those hoping to visit this year, either for a much-needed holiday or because you want to invest in a holiday villa in Antalya, where should you stay? Here are five of our top recommendations.

Titanic Mardan Palace

The Titanic Mardan Palace in Antalya is renowned for its opulence and sumptuous accommodation. Many rooms offer views of the pool or shimmering Mediterranean, while some feature a marble bathtub or private jacuzzi. Treat yourself to a suite, and you could enjoy a private sun terrace and butler service.

There’s a family-friendly aquapark and several swimming pools or, if you’re a beach lover, pristine sand and clear blue waters are just a few steps away. When it’s time to eat, choose from some 35 different options for wining and dining. Shopping enthusiasts can indulge themselves without leaving the hotel, too, as the Titanic Mardan offers a range of high-end shops and boutiques.

Lara Barut Collection

The Lara Barut regularly receives rave reviews for being family friendly while still offering the highest levels of style and luxury. The rooms are designed with the ideal combination of comfort, elegance and quality in mind, and there is no shortage of dining options where gourmet chefs will tempt your tastebuds with their treats.

There is an extensive programme of activities and entertainment to keep the family’s younger members occupied, and the private beach has plenty of gazebos and pavilions where guests can relax. The spa is highly recommended as an oasis of wellbeing, with skilled therapists melting away your cares through a range of treatments.

Delphin Imperial Hotel

Fans of the Delphin Imperial Hotel in Antalya say it’s like a home from home – but infinitely more luxurious. Its unique architecture houses chic rooms decorated in a contemporary style, while remaining mindful of guests’ comfort.

Relax by the pool or on the private beach or take advantage of the many facilities – a bowling alley, tennis court, billiards, water sports, spa centre and more are all available. The open buffet in the main restaurant comes highly recommended but wine buffs might prefer to check out the DaVinci Restaurant, which is known for its range of high-quality beverages. Other dining options include Fusion Restaurant, which serves mouth-watering international cuisine.

Bellis Deluxe Hotel, Belek

As well as beach holidays, one of Antalya’s main draws is its reputation as a golfer’s paradise. Belek is known as Turkey’s golfing capital, featuring numerous championship-standard courses with ultra-modern facilities and sumptuous clubhouses. Tiger Woods is known to have played here, while former US president Barack Obama took to the fairway in 2015 when Antalya hosted the tenth G20 summit.

The Bellis Deluxe is the perfect retreat, set on a large estate surrounded by pine trees. It features numerous eateries, including five á la carte restaurants, snack bars, and a dedicated patisserie. Horse riding, yoga, Pilates and volleyball are just a few of the extensive range of activities available, and there is a spa centre, Turkish bath and several pools.

Although it’s ideal for families, the Bellis Deluxe is also highly popular with couples due to its secluded location and outstanding accommodation and facilities.

Palm House 17

Not everyone wants to stay in a large, all-inclusive hotel. Luckily, Antalya caters for those who prefer quieter surroundings too – it boasts some wonderful boutique establishments.

Palm House 17 is one such place, lying just over half a mile from the Old City Marina and close to Mermerli Beach. Set on the beachfront with its own private garden, only guests over the age of 12 are accepted and it is an oasis of calm. The rooms are beautifully and tastefully decorated and there is a private courtyard terrace. Accommodation is on a bed and breakfast basis, with a choice of continental or à la carte, offering plenty of opportunity to discover Antalya’s excellent restaurants.

For those who enjoy quiet refinement and a truly personal service, it’s the ideal getaway.

Considering property investment in Antalya?

Our team has extensive experience in the Antalya real estate market, from helping our clients decide on the best location for an Antalya holiday home to finding the perfect property. Whether you are looking for a luxury villa to rent out or your own private bolthole, we’d love to help you too – just get in touch.