4reasons Hotel+Bistro

Charming and tranquil, the 4reasons is an intimate boutique packed with Mediterranean charm. Cobblestone paths run through manicured lawns bursting with colorful flowers, shrubs, and cacti, while lovely shaded nooks with wrought-iron benches lend the property a romantic atmosphere. Rooms and most common areas are housed in a low whitewashed building with exposed stone accents and wooden beams, and the spacious pool deck offers expansive views of the valley below and the lush areas around the hotel. The lobby is decorated in an eclectic style that combines large models of beautiful sailboats with abstract artwork on walls and bright red metal lockers, though it feels a bit like an office, and few guests linger here after check-in. Other common spaces have a cozier style that helps make this one of the area's most well-liked boutiques. The restaurant is especially homey -- we love the nook with dozens of books and a fireplace -- and there's a lounge area with large couches placed along floor-to-ceiling windows. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxing throughout, and although the hotel does have a number of kid-friendly features -- including Family Rooms and a kiddy pool -- most guests at the 4reasons are couples seeking to spend some relaxing days away from the hustle and bustle. 

The 4reasons hotel+bistro has a quiet setting on the side of a hill about a five-minute drive from the center of Yalikavak. For the ambitious, the walk can be done in 25 to 30 minutes, but keep in mind that the hotel does not offer any type of shuttle service. The area is green and peaceful, but there is nothing within an easy stroll of the hotel aside from a few private homes. There is a small beach area about 15 minutes on foot from the hotel, but the walk back is uphill and can be a little challenging for some. Yalikavak is home to a wide array of restaurants and cafes, most located in the area around the marina. The weekly street market is one of the main attractions in town, and offers everything from traditional Turkish ornaments to electronic devices, fabrics, leather goods, and food. Bodrum City, known for its bustling atmosphere and historic sites, is about a half-hour drive away. The hotel is a 50-minute drive from the airport; transfer services are available for a fee. 

The hotel’s 20 rooms are divided into four categories: Functional, Casual, Junior Suites, and Passionate. At 387 square feet, Casual units are the smallest, with a queen bed, a compact seating area, and a shared terrace. On the other end of the spectrum are the 486-square-foot Functional Rooms, which feature two adjoining bedrooms and two bathrooms, and have spacious balconies with garden views. All rooms are decorated with a stylish combination of dark wood accents and all-white surfaces, which along with burlap lamps, exposed whitewashed brick walls, and wicker details give rooms a sight rustic-chic feel. Platform beds have double-sided mattresses (one is firm, the other is softer) and are topped with quality cotton sheets and several pillows. Some rooms -- like the Passionate Room that we visited -- use pebbled floors underneath the beds, creating an even more rustic-romantic look (the fireplace doesn't hurt the mood, either). Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, electronic safes, and individually controlled air-conditioning units. iPod docks are available on request, and turndown service is provided. Bathrooms vary in size, but all have showers with organic Damana toiletries, hairdryers, and robes and slippers. For the best views, guests may want to request a Passionate Room, all of which feature terraces overlooking the valley and the sea.

The hotel’s freeform pool is set on a spacious deck offering panoramic valley views and a handful of padded loungers and wicker umbrellas. The pool is big enough for laps, and features a separate shallow area for kids protected by a metal railing for safety. An open thatched pavilion located on a wooden deck adjacent to the pool houses the bar, offering an array of drinks and wines and romantic sunset views. A full Turkish breakfast is included in all rates, and can be served in the restaurant or in the poolside lounge area, compete with long padded benches with throw pillows. Lunch and dinner are available at the Bistro, which features an excellent Mediterranean menu and a great wine list -- it's a popular spot for hotel guests and others in town on vacation who are staying elsewhere. While the hotel lacks a full spa, there is an outdoor pavilion for massages tucked away among flowers and plants below the main deck. The hotel also features a bocce ball court located across from a spacious deck where yoga is available on request -- there are also Adirondack chairs overlooking the gardens, for an alternative way to relax. While the hotel isn't on the beach, it arranges discounts at a local beach club. The 4reasons hosts a handful of weddings every year, and offers full planning services, including catering, flowers, and decorations. Free outdoor parking is also available on-site, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.