Honest review
Set your expectations straight away: Maçakızı is not a classic beach resort but a bohemian club by the sea, grown out of a small guesthouse in the centre of Bodrum.
The first reason to come is the gastronomy. The kitchen has been led since 2000 by Aret Sahakyan — a chef who worked with Washington's most respected cooks; the menu rests on Mediterranean cooking and traditional Turkish dishes, rounded out with flavours from around the world.
The second reason is the atmosphere. For decades the place has drawn intellectuals and artists; Mick Jagger and Nureyev have been among the guests; the staff know everyone by name, and you may catch the owner in easy conversation.
The rooms have been updated for a new generation of travellers, but the bohemian spirit laid down by Ayla Emiroğlu has been kept deliberately.
Choose Maçakızı if you value style, cooking and conversation by the sea more than slides and entertainment programmes.
