Liberty Hotels Lara

With only 311 rooms, the Liberty Hotels Lara is somewhat smaller than most of its neighbors. The grounds are similar in size, but the main building is more compact, which allows for bigger green areas and a less crowded feel. The property also has a quieter vibe than most of the other all-inclusive resorts in Lara. Even from the moment visitors walk through the door, the Liberty has a mellower feel -- the atrium-style lobby is dotted with plush couches set around coffee tables, and soft jazz and lounge music plays in the background. Outside, there are separate areas for activities and relaxation, including a large pool with music and waterslides, ample lawns with rope hammocks, and a peaceful pier with thatched cabanas. Though perhaps not the most opulent hotel around, the Liberty Hotels Lara keeps guests coming back with a laid-back atmosphere, simple but comfortable rooms, and a variety of entertainment options for all ages. When we visited at the beginning of the Fall, most guests were older Western European couples and a few families with young children, and the hotel, though full, had a relaxing vibe. Travelers wanting something more bustling in the same price range may prefer the Sherwood Breezes Resort. The Delphin Imperial Hotel Lara is a good alternative for those seeking a Vegas-style mega-resort on the beach. Neighboring Hotel Baia Lara is a more upscale pick with 2017-renovated rooms and a similar quiet vibe. 

The Liberty Hotels Lara is located on a quiet street off the main thoroughfare running through Lara, a hotel-filled area just east of Antalya. The hotel is pretty much self-contained and few guests leave the property during their stay, but those wanting to explore the neighborhood can find a number of shops and malls within a 10-minute walk. Several top local attractions -- including Antalya’s old town and the Perge archaeological site -- can be reached in about 30 minutes, while the Duden Waterfalls are just a 15-minute drive away. Belek’s many renowned golf courses are all within a 20-minute drive of the Liberty Hotels Lara, as is Antalya International Airport. 

The hotel has a variety of room types, from simple Economy Rooms with no balcony, to two-bedroom Family Duplex units. Rooms are comfortable but rather bland, outfitted with simple wooden furniture, laminate floors, and splashes of blue in pillows, headboards, and bed runners. Silver and blue curtains stand out against the pale walls hung with large photos in silver frames, while big windows offer side sea views in many rooms. Rooms are well-equipped for the price, and feature flat-screen TVs hidden away in mirrors, electric kettles with free tea and coffee, and central air-conditioning. Minibars are stocked with water, sodas, and juice (plus beer in the summer), all of which are replenished daily free of charge. Bathrooms are compact but clean, with deep shower/tub combos, beige tiles throughout, black counters with sunken basins, and an array of toiletries.Superior Rooms have double beds instead of two twins, and bigger balconies than Standard Rooms. Families can choose from several room types, including Large Standard Rooms -- equipped with a double bed, a twin bed, and a sofa bed -- connecting rooms, and Family Duplexes, complete with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a living area with a sofa bed. 

The hotel offers a wide range of amenities for all types of guests, from business travelers to families with young kids. One of the top highlights at the Liberty are the pools, of which there are four, including one indoors and three outdoors. The adult-only pool is relaxing and quiet, while the water park and the large family pool have a more bustling vibe, with a kiddy section, activities, and music. A spa is pleasant but basic, with six treatment rooms, a relaxation room with a handful of loungers, and a small hammam that guests can use free of charge. Travelers wanting to stay fit during their vacation can get a full workout at the small but well-equipped fitness center, and there are also two tennis courts, a five-a-side soccer field, and a beach volleyball court that guests can use for free. The kids’ club offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities for children of all ages, and there is a playground with shaded areas.The main restaurant serves a varied buffet spread for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and features a spacious terrace with many tables. Additionally, guests get one free dinner at any of the on-site a la carte restaurants, which include Asian, fish, Italian, and Turkish. Only the latter two remain open in the winter. There is an a la carte snack restaurant serving up sandwiches, fried chicken, hot dogs, salads, desserts, and brick oven pizza by the beach, while the Pasta House, located at the adult-only pool, serves tasty pasta dishes.Flexible meeting space is also on-site, and includes a large hall for up to 250 guests. Catering and event planning services are available on request. Wi-Fi is free and reliable throughout the property.