Royal Holiday Palace

Housed in a huge, palace-like yellow building, this resort is one of the most recognizable structures in the area. The property is grand inside and out, with opulent interiors decorated in gold and marble, and striking grounds with massive pools crisscrossed by long bridges with white stone balustrades. Though the style can be a little overdone at times -- in particular the painted arches resting on marble-clad columns, the grand staircases outfitted with crystal railings and huge chandeliers, and the many golden accents throughout -- the feel is more upscale than gaudy in most areas.The hotel has a lively, family-friendly atmosphere that is better suited to those wanting to participate in the many daily activities organized by the staff than for those seeking some peace and quiet. There is loud music around the pools, and the entertainment team gives instructions on microphones, which makes it difficult to find a quiet spot on the main deck. In fact, aside from the spa, the beach is perhaps the only serene area. Travelers wanting a slightly quieter atmosphere may prefer the cheaper Liberty Hotels Lara, which has tasteful interiors, comfortable rooms, and an adult-only pool. Melas Lara Hotel is an excellent alternative for families seeking something more luxurious, while Saturn Palace Resort is a cheaper option with a bustling atmosphere.

The Royal Holiday Palace 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 15-minute walk. Several top local attractions -- including Antalya’s old town and the Perge archaeological site -- can be reached in about 30 minutes by car, 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 Royal Holiday Palace, as is Antalya International Airport. 

The hotel’s 604 rooms are large and comfortable. They are decorated in an ornate style that combines clean-lined wooden furniture with thick carpets and bold accents in royal hues such as burgundy, gold, and blue. Silk-like pillows, embroidered bed runners, and golden tufted headboards add texture, while club chairs and wallpaper in neutral hues are elegant touches. The lack of artwork on walls makes rooms feel a tad empty, especially given their size, but floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto small, furnished balconies that offer side and full sea views in about 60 percent of the rooms. The rest have views of the grounds, the street, or the neighboring hotels. Standard amenities include flat-screen TV with many international channels, central air-conditioning, and electric kettles with free tea and instant coffee. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, but it seems to be spotty in rooms (the signal is better in the lobby). Minibars are stocked with local beer, a few sodas, water, and juice, and everything is replenished daily free of charge. Bathrooms are fairly spacious, ableit simple, with big shower/tub combos, old-looking granite counters with sunken basins, and beige tiles. Extras such as toothbrushes, shaving kits, and shower caps are provided in all rooms, as are hairdryers, robes, and slippers. Families and groups can choose from a range of room types, such as Duplex units with two en-suite bedrooms, or King Suites complete with jetted tubs, kitchenettes, and living areas.

The hotel’s Palace Restaurant serves up a varied, tasty buffet spread with dozens of regional and international options. It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the main dining room has a separate area for kids, as well as an adult-only section. Late breakfast is available at the Bistro, located off the lobby, and several snack restaurants and bars offer smaller bites and fast food for lunch and between meals. There is a fee for all five a la carte restaurants, but most guests find them well worth the extra money. Pools are one of the highlights at the Royal Holiday Palace. The main pool is massive and clean, and features dozens of loungers and umbrellas, as well as music and entertainment. The main water park is located overlooking the beach and has five waterslides for teens and adults, while the kiddy pool has three additional slides for children, as well as a shallow area for toddlers. A large indoor pool is a great perk for the colder days, but it is only heated in the winter. The spa has a relaxing atmosphere, thank to dim lights, soft music, and a faint eucalyptus smell throughout. Massages, scrubs, wraps, and salon services are available for a fee, and all guests get free access to a hammam and a sauna under the all-inclusive package. The fitness center has a range of cardio and strength-training machines, and the hotel offers free use of a tennis court. Equipment is available free of charge, but there is a fee for lights and lessons.A kids’ club offers a full range of activities for kids between the ages of 4 and 12, and younger children can use the toy rooms as long as they’re accompanied by an adult. There are a few carnival rides that all kids can use free of charge.