Azka Otel

Housed in a large white building with arched windows and a stepped design, the Azka Otel makes a good first impression. The rear of the main structure abuts other properties, but the front is wide open to the Mediterranean, with a large pool deck overlooking the sea and a lovely stretch of sand dotted with loungers and straw umbrellas. This is an older hotel and both the facade and the interiors have a somewhat dated feel despite a few cosmetic updates in some common spaces and suites in 2015. The lobby is large and airy, with a grand central staircase leading to the lower level and large windows overlooking the grounds and the sea. Decor is classic and mostly elegant, but the heavy chairs with gold accents and thick embroidered drapes feel a bit out of place and over-the-top for a beach hotel. Other common spaces have a more subdued style, with a lighter palette, contemporary furniture, and a casual atmosphere. The focus here is on relaxation, and the outdoors offer plenty of areas for those looking to enjoy the Mediterranean sun. Although there aren’t a lot of green areas at the Azka, a few small grass lawns and several decks with shaded areas provide serene lookout points and space to lounge. 

The resort is located right on Bodrum’s top beach, known for its fine sand and clear waters. No boats, motorized or otherwise, are allowed access to this part of the bay, which makes for better snorkeling and a more relaxing vibe. There are a few other hotels in the immediate vicinity, but little else of interest. A five-minute drive away, however, is the hopping center of Bodrum, packed with restaurants, cafes, and shops. The drive is pleasant and easy, and walking is also possible, but the most exciting and scenic way to reach the city is by hopping on a water taxi, which docks right outside the hotel. Major attractions such as the souk, Bodrum Castle, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, and the Antique Theater of Bodrum can all be reached in about five minutes by car. The airport is a 45-minute drive away. 

The hotel has 197 rooms, all featuring large windows and balconies, most overlooking the sea and the pool. While the hotel updated its rooms in 2015 with fresh coats of paint and stylish white tufted headboards, the overall look is a tad bland. Basic wooden furniture in neutral colors and thin champagne-colored bedspreads with aquamarine patterns are a little dull and underwhelming for a hotel that advertises itself as a luxury property. Suites got larger scale renovations, with ornate classic furniture, silver and golden accents, and tufted couches and headboards that some may find more garish than elegant. All rooms are equipped with satellite flat-screen TVs, electronic safes, and minibars stocked only with water and sodas (fees apply). Annoyingly, outside food and drink are not allowed (some guests report bag checks), so guests are forced to pay for the overpriced water at the hotel. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout. Bathrooms are small but contemporary, with beige tiling throughout, marble and granite finishes, modern fixtures, and glass-enclosed shower stalls with rain showerheads. Basic hairdryers and a decent array of hotel-brand toiletries are also provided. 

The definite highlight at the Azka Otel is the location on Bodrum’s best beach, which is part of a larger bay with fine sand, clean waters, and lovely views of the Mediterranean. This part of the beach is narrow, but there are several dozen loungers and straw umbrellas available for guests (and paying non-guests). The pool is on a spacious deck located right above the beach, which allows for panoramic, serene views. Loungers and umbrellas are also available around the pool, and there is a small kiddy pool with a low railing around it for safety. Breakfast and dinners are served at the hotel’s buffet restaurant, which features a spacious terrace with sea views. Food at the Azka gets good reviews, but guests on half-board plans may want to know that drinks are an extra charge in the evening meal. Lunch is offered at the beach snack bar, and drinks are available by the pool throughout the day as well. Along with the kiddy pool, the hotel also offers a couple of other perks for families, including a seasonal kids’ club with daily activities, a playground, and live music during the summer months. The spa features a pleasant indoor pool, a hydrotherapy area with a whirlpool, massage cabins, and a hammam and a sauna. The fitness center is another highlight here, with a wide array of modern cardio and strength-training equipment, lots of natural light, and personal trainers. Tennis and basketball courts are also available. The hotel also features extensive indoor and outdoor event space, including a large hall for weddings or corporate meetings. Wi-Fi and outdoor parking are available free of charge.