Tantalising Turkey - Anda Barut Collection
Rooms - I stayed in a Deluxe Room with Sea View. The room was large, the beds were very comfy, a large bathroom (with double sinks), fabulous rain shower, large walk-in wardrobe and a balcony with views across the adult pool and adult bar out to sea. There was a mini bar and mineral water provided (topped up every day).
Resort - There are three ‘zones’ across the resort – Family, Community and Adult. I stayed in the Adult Zone and this was the quietest area when I was there which was lovely. It’s located on a peninsula and surrounded by sea on three ‘sides’. I loved all the different flora and fauna around the grounds. Given the warmer climate in Turkey, it was surprisingly lush and green. There are a series of outdoor art installations dotted around the grounds and I enjoyed walking around looking out for the ‘next’ installation. It was a really nice touch and an added interest.
Pools - There are five pools across the three zones of the resort. There were plenty of sunloungers and umbrellas for guests and towels are available next to the pools. There are bars located by the pools so you can always get a drink throughout the day. There was some music but it wasn’t too loud, and it was quite a relaxed vibe which was great for me. I didn’t use the children’s pool as I wasn’t with kids.
Beach - There are two beaches overlooking the bright blue Aegean Sea, set up with sun loungers, umbrellas and a bar. A great place to relax and soak up the sunshine for those that prefer to feel the sand in their toes and swim in the sea.
Spa & Fitness - There is a fabulous spa at the resort. I booked a Turkish Bath / hammam which involved being scrubbed down, rinsed, then covered in foam and then rinsed again. It was very relaxing and my skin felt very soft and smooth afterwards – perfect before making the most of the sunshine. There is also an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, fully equipped gym and relaxation area. The spa treatments, such as massages and facials, are available to book at an additional cost. Every guest can use the pool, sauna, steam room, gym etc as much as you wish during your stay.
Kids Facilities & Activities - If the children are happy and entertained, then usually the parents are happy too! The Family Zone includes an Aquapark, with waterslide pool, King Cobra – a massive water slide, the Carnival area (which is a bit like a fairground) has dodgems / bumper cars, a merry-go-round, playground, mini rollercoaster, mini theatre plus there are four Kids Clubs – starting with babies 0-3, 4-8 and 8-12 and a teens space for 13-18 year olds. There was lots of shade and seating areas, and it was well thought out and designed.
Food & Drink - I enjoyed lots of delicious food and drink during my stay at Anda Barut Collection. My favourite restaurant was Cape Beach Lounge – a slice of Mexico in Turkey! I went for lunch twice and it was very chilled out – in fact we ended up staying for almost 5 hours on our last day – the view out to sea was gorgeous and it was relaxing just sitting, chatting, enjoying a drink after lunch and making the most of the view. All restaurants are included for all guests, although a few of the a la carte restaurants are adult only in the evening which you need to book in advance. There are eight restaurants to choose from in addition to the Zestful Bazaar Main Restaurant – an enormous buffet where you have a fabulous selection of starters, mains and desserts. I’m confident that there would be something for everyone given all the dining options available.
Entertainment - There is a whole events programme for all guests to enjoy. There is a large stage, the Delice stage, in the Community Zone, which is where there are live shows on several evenings during the week. During my stay there was a Beyonce themed show featuring music and dance which was impressive. Anda Barut Collection also runs special events throughout the season. The week before I was there, they held a Wellness Week featuring several British Olympic medallists!
Summary & who would I recommend stay here? - I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at Anda Barut Collection. I think it would be a great choice for families. It’s all very easy, safe, accessible and ‘geared up’ for families. The activities and facilities looked fabulous and there’s something for everyone of all ages. I would also recommend Anda Barut Collection for adults, either couples or friends. It’s a stunning hotel, well designed and thought out, lots of space, lots of facilities (you can be as active as you wish – or horizontal on a sunlounger if that’s your thing), great food & drink, friendly and helpful staff, plus it’s only a 4 hour flight from the UK.
