Chigdem Hotel

High standards are evident from the get-go at this 2011-opened property, which was designed by the owner, and named after his wife. Expect light stacked and exposed stone throughout, and beautifully restored masonry that offsets the shabby-chic interiors. The open-air lobby's period-style furnishings, inlaid or fireplace-adorned ceramics, and quirky bric-a-brac are punctuated by velvet chaise loungers, and its sofas, tables, and chairs here overlook the outdoor pool. It's reached by steep steps, as are most rooms and the rooftop terrace, which may be problematic for those with limited mobility. The carefree feel extends to flower-filled lawn gardens, where tables and chairs get the sun. Given there are just 10 rooms in a tucked-away location, the property remains quiet. Friendly owners are always available.

The hotel sits halfway up a hill on Alacati's outskirts, though it's just a five-minute walk to reach the charming, 14th-century town, where winding cobblestone streets house upscale boutiques, bars, restaurants, and Saturday markets. The town can also be accessed via a staircase shortcut. Busses aren't plentiful, although they do run to Cesme, which is a 28-minute drive or taxi ride away. The main Ilica and Alacati beaches are both a 12-minute drive, and the latter is near the town's fancy marina. Izmir is around an hour's drive, as is Adnan Menderes Airport.

Spread across three stories, shabby-chic rooms are individually decorated in light, classic styles with accents in lavender, powder blue, earth tones, or regal red. Hardwood floors and white-plastered or exposed stone walls contrast feminine details in sheer-draped, canopied, or four-poster beds. The style may be too cutesy for some, but the finish is impeccable. Expect quaint accents from rotary-dial phones, flower-filled watering cans, wall-affixed candle holders, tassel embellishments, and sacks of grain that act as "Do Not Disturb" signs. Suites are on the ground level and have French doors opening directly onto the pool terrace.Phones, period-style desks, and seating areas or ottomans accompany satin or leopard-print robes in most rooms. Flat-screen cable TVs, minibars, safes, hairdryers, and air-conditioning come standard. There are no kettles provided. Small bathrooms done in local stone have ceramic bowl sinks, snug shower stalls, beautifully presented baskets of toiletries, and slippers. Honeymoon Suites are particularly popular. Note, however, that many rooms require walking up stairs.

Despite notable absences of any full restaurant, gym, or spa, the hotel's features are in keeping with the intimate setting. Decor in itself is a feature, as every corner of the property is carefully designed for aesthetic gain, from the trendy lobby lounge, to the roof terrace's light sofas and dining furniture, where horizon views are splendid. Gourmet breakfasts are free and served under a shaded terrace. A veritable feast here includes made-to-order eggs, cheese, fruit, local delicacy platters, and continental options with homemade jams, plus fresh-squeezed juices, tea, and coffee. A second round of free offerings (served at 5 p.m. during our visit) consists of tea and cake, served poolside or on the roof terrace.The outdoor pool is a good size for the number of guests, and it's attractive thanks to its terrace lined with cushioned loungers, two-person daybeds, and bean bags in pinks and beiges. Decorative ceramics and towel baskets on antique trunks add homey touches. Unfortunately, umbrellas are limited. The rooftop bar is up a flight of steps and it serves a range of beverages. Guests can also relax in greenery-filled gardens, where limited furniture sits under parasols. A sauna is free to use. Pets are not permitted. Free parking and property-wide Wi-Fi complete available amenities.