Cactus Mirage Family Club

The three-pearl Cactus Mirage Family Club has a plain, red-brick entrance that leads to a more attractive lobby. There, chunky rattan furniture is set on large traditional-patterned rugs, while a sweeping marble staircase features ornate wrought iron. The undulating ceiling is dotted with hundreds of lights and has a fresco-style sky painting, while an out-of-place neon sign hangs over the front desk. The complex itself comprises a series of two-story accommodation blocks with more pretty wrought ironwork. All around there are gardens brimming with colorful flowers, various species of trees, and well-tended lawns. Being built into the side of a hill -- like many hotels along the coast -- means there are plenty of steps to navigate to reach the pool, restaurant, and small private beach area (complete with jetty). As such, the mobility impaired or those with baby strollers might struggle. The hotel attracts overwhelmingly French vacationers, as well as a few Brits, and it's a fairly even split between couples and families with kids. Travelers should be aware that the entertainment is in French. 

The hotel is set on a hillside overlooking the Aegean Sea in the coastal town of Yalikavak. Mostly surrounded by other hotels and with just a handful of bars and restaurants within walking distance, the resort might feel a little too secluded for some. Right next door, however, is the Pirates of the Cactus water park -- one of the area's biggest, which guests have free access to during the week. Another convenience is the bus (Dolmus) that stops right outside the property and connects to the bustling town center -- and popular weekly bazaar. The marina district (Palmarina Bodrum) is a five- to 10-minute cab journey away, and a pleasant spot to enjoy waterside dining. The city of Bodrum -- known for its ancient ruins and pretty Old Town -- is about 30 to 40 minutes' drive, while Milas–Bodrum Airport is located about 50 minutes by road.

The hotel's signature wrought iron continues into the guest rooms, accompanied by ornate light fixtures, traditional two-tone wooden furniture, and blue-and-yellow patterned fabrics. Beige-tile floors and cream-painted walls add to the plain, dated look, though artwork depicting village and countryside scenery is a charming touch. These air-conditioned rooms also provide semi-stocked minibars and small flat-screen TVs with some international channels. All open to furnished terraces or balconies overlooking the pretty gardens, though some also get a partial view of the sea. Tiled bathrooms are small and a few corners are showing signs of wear; they come equipped with small stall showers, wall-mounted hairdryers, and basic wall-mounted soaps. Family rooms also include separate bedrooms for kids or adults. In-room Wi-Fi is not available.

The hotel's two main restaurants are a mix of traditional furnishings, checkered-tile floors, and a sky-effect ceiling dotted with lights. One serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet-style (included in the rate), while the other has an a la carte menu and an alfresco terrace with superb sea views. Local-brand drinks are also covered in the plan and served at a snack bar, an old-fashioned-style pub, and the lobby bar. An outdoor pool big enough for swimming laps is lined with loungers, and offers panoramic views of the bay. Plus, there's a small splash pool that has a waterslide and is protected from the sun by an awning. A man-made sandy beach also provides plenty of sunbeds, direct access to the sea, and a jetty where (fairly pricey) water sports are available. More water-based fun can be found at the neighboring Pirates of the Cactus water park, complete with flumes, corkscrew slides, and pools, and free for guests during the week. Children also have a kids' club and outdoor playground on-site. Also available is a tennis court and spa with nondescript treatment rooms and a pretty marble Turkish hammam. A hair salon and shops are also on the property. Wi-Fi is available for free in public areas.