IC Hotels Green Palace

Though the lobby’s somewhat older, traditional decor style may not make for a great first impression, there’s plenty to love about the Green Palace. The property has fewer rooms than most of its neighbors (429 compared to around 900 at other nearby hotels) and a quieter, more upscale atmosphere, with big, manicured grounds full of palms and pine trees, open pavilions built on stilts over artificial ponds, and large pools with separate areas for activities and quiet relaxation. Even though the hotel was full when we visited, and many guests were families with young children, it was still easy to find a quiet spot away from the hustle and bustle, be it around the main pool or at the beach. This laid-back yet upmarket feel ties in well with the hotel’s stylish, contemporary interiors. The main restaurant is particularly appealing, with tufted benches in turquoise hues, black-and-white hydraulic tiles, and a combination of metal and wood that lends it a chic, industrial feel. 

While the hotel is a great pick both for families and couples, next-door sister property IC Hotels Residence has a more adult, exclusive vibe -- and rates to match. Families staying there can use all facilities at the Green Palace, but the quiet atmosphere is better suited for couples and those traveling with older children. Families wanting a more bustling vacation may prefer the neighboring World of Wonders Kremlin Palace or World of Wonders Topkapi Palace Hotel, though the IC Hotels Green Palace offers more bang for your buck and is more posh.

IC Hotels Green Palace is located in a somewhat secluded beachfront area east of Antalya. The resort is surrounded by a few other all-inclusive resorts, but there are no shops or restaurants within walking distance. In the area directly north of the hotel, large greenhouses line both sides of the road, and rural villages with a handful of homes each sprawl over the area between the resort and the D-400 highway. This location feels a little remote, but it offers easy access to the airport, located about 20 minutes away, and the many renowned golf courses in neighboring Belek. Public buses to Antalya stop just a short walk from the hotel. 

IC Hotels Green Palace has a total of 429 rooms spread over two blocks built perpendicular to the beach. All rooms were renovated in 2015 and are decorated in the same contemporary style, with laminate floors and a navy-and-white color scheme that stands out against the caramel-colored walls hung with cute artwork in the same hues. The brown wooden furniture has a more classic style that makes for a nice contrast. Standard Rooms start at 280 square feet, which allows for enough space to fit in desks and luggage racks, and still walk around the beds comfortably. Families can choose from a range of room types, from the more economical Quad Rooms -- which are Standard units with two additional Murphy beds -- to spacious two-bedroom suites with separate living areas and two bathrooms. 

All room types have the same amenities, including flat-screen TVs with many international channels, electric kettles with free tea and coffee, and robes and slippers. Minibars are stocked with water, soft drinks, beer, and juice (all replenished daily, free of charge); suites come with extras such as a selection of liquors, imported beer, and snacks. Wi-Fi is free and reliable throughout the property, including at the beach and around the pools. 

Each room has its own private balcony, most with at least side sea views. Our Junior Suite was in excellent shape and spotless, but some guests have complained of scuff marks on walls and scratched furniture. Bathrooms are straightforward and clean, with shower/tub combos stocked with a range of hotel-brand toiletries (Molton Brown in suites), wall-mounted hairdryers, and ample counter space. King Suites feature jetted tubs and separate rain showers.

Honeymoon Suites, of which there are two in the hotel, are located at the very top of the building and have windows on three sides offering stunning panoramic sea views. 

The hotel has a number of big, clean pools, all surrounded by dozens of loungers and umbrellas, and offering direct access to several bars and snack corners. The main pool is large and generally hasa relaxing atmosphere, as there is a designated pool for activities and entertainment a little away from the main deck. There are also a small water park with a few small slides for kids, a separate kiddy pool with water features, and a heated indoor pool at the spa. 

Guests get free access to a sauna and hammam, and a wide array of massages are available for a fee, including some for couples. There are a few pleasant treatment rooms in the spa, but the highlight are the outdoor rooms, housed in thatched pavilions built over an artificial lake. The hotel has a range of options for those looking to stay active during their vacation, including a small but well-equipped fitness center and four tennis courts (lights, equipment, and lessons available for a fee). 

The kids’ club is spacious and colorful, with indoor and outdoor facilities, and a mini-golf area. It provides a daily activities program for kids between the ages of 4 and 12, but younger children can also use the club when accompanied by an adult. Babysitting services are available for a fee. 

Food is good and varied at the Green Palace. The main restaurant serves a great buffet spread for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and features a big terrace and a separate area for kids, complete with a blender, microwave, and small tables. Six a la carte eateries add some variety, although there is a fee for all of them. The sushi and teppanyaki restaurants are located inside the main buffet, while the Mexican is housed in a big, open pavilion adjacent to it. The adult-only (12 and older) Italian restaurant is, along with the teppanyaki, the most special of all, as it features just a dozen tables and has expansive views. One of the snack bars turns into the Turkish and fish restaurants in the evening (during the summer only). There are also snacks offered throughout the day, from Turkish pancakes and fresh fruit at the beach, to many types of coffee.