The Perfect Hillside Retreat for a Delightful Turkish Getaway

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Upon arrival at the vast resort, you’ll be struck by the incredible turquoise waters that are viewable from almost every vantage point at Hillside Beach Club. Serene days on the beach are obviously something you would expect from such a place to stay, but if you look closely you’ll also find private coves, yoga retreats, adventure sports options and even a cinema on the beach!

The luxury hideaway in Fethiye offers guests a home away from home in privately owned Kalemya Bay, surrounded by pine forests and the sea. Boasting three beaches, two spas, gourmet cuisine at three restaurants and water sports and activities galore, the resort is described as “Heaven on Earth” by couples and families alike. If you’re traveling solo, there are also plenty of options and the secluded areas at either end of the main beach is a safe way to get away from it all.

The resort has the best in swimming, hiking, biking, climbing and culture on its doorstep. You can take an e-bike if you’re feeling adventurous and go on either a guided tour or head off on your own to see the sights of Fethiye’s central town district. This is ideal if you’re looking to shop for some local gifts to take home and you can even try some local cuisine, although the hotel itself offers plenty of food options from home and abroad.

One excursion we can highly recommend is a trek to Kayaköy Ghost town, a popular destination that has an eerie backstory. It’s a moderate hike, which can be slightly more difficult on hot days but as long as you take regular breaks and drink plenty of water, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular experience. Of course if that all sound too taxing, then book a sunset boat trip and relax with a drink in your hand as someone else does all the hard work!

The area surrounding Hillside Beach Club is known as Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, for obvious reasons. Depending on what sort of holiday you’re after, you can take a dive into the warm water or take part in some of the more exhilarating adventure sports activities. Hydrofoiling was one of the newer sports on offer when I visited, and if you’re brave enough then this looks like a adrenaline-fuelled way to spend a free afternoon. I did think about it, but then opted for a spa treatment which included a rigorous Turkish Hammam experience which made me think I made the wrong choice. The more relaxing massage afterwards helped me come to ease with my pick, and on reflection the literal one-two punch combination worked out for the best.

Every year Hillside also has a special selection of programmes to keep an eye on. An ongoing partnership with the British Film Institute (BFI) culminates with the popular Summer Screenings week. Designed for guests of all ages, the BFI will be presenting film screenings of new and old favourites, as well as offering interactive workshops to both adults and children who are interested in the world of film. With the theme of musicals this year, guests can spend their evenings singing along on the shore with a cooling cocktail and after this creative week of activities, guests will be fully versed on the creation and history of film. If you miss it the week itself, don’t worry as film screenings on the beach are held regularly throughout the season.

On the surface Hillside Beach Club is a resort with all the amenities you could possibly ask for. This makes it a wonderfully stress-free option when there is enough hassle around travel already. What marks it out an extra special destination, however, is the things you are welcome to try out to fully immerse yourself in local culture.

Nightly rates at Hillside Beach Club start from £192. Rates based on two people sharing a standard room on a full board plus* basis.