Orka Lotus Beach Hotel

“Heart warming people, absolutely stunning views”

We are a family of 5 with daughters aged 11, 13 & 14 and as we travel back to Dalaman airport we’re all feeling very sad to leave (there’s even some teenage tears). We have kept returning for 6 years for two reasons 1. The people. When the wider world can feel full of conflict and extremes, the g… more

We are a family of 5 with daughters aged 11, 13 & 14 and as we travel back to Dalaman airport we’re all feeling very sad to leave (there’s even some teenage tears). We have kept returning for 6 years for two reasons 1. The people. When the wider world can feel full of conflict and extremes, the genuine warmth, kindness and trustworthiness of special people who work at the Orka is an uplifting, heartwarming and inspiring tonic. They offer big smiles, friendly “good mornings”, an appetite for fun, strong work ethic and lots of care and good service. There are many sincerely good people, but our family particularly want to highlight Ural who gave us great service in the main breakfast restaurant but was also good fun and deeply kind around the pool in the afternoon. Mustafa in the restaurant for his attention to detail, anticipating little touches our family would appreciate without us even asking. The multi talented Tolga - currently life guard at the beach - for always being a beaming, friendly presence, making sure we’re safe in the water but with such a joyous spirit. And a special shout out to Rachael and Charlie in guest relations who always offer really excellent, responsive, helpful service - as always they really have gone above and beyond to make our stay extra special. 2. The location. Honestly, it’s so very rare to find a little piece of heaven as stunning as Icmeler and the Orka makes the absolute most of its prime position. Even waiting for the lift at the roof top Blue Bar is a dream! Whether you are gazing out at the ocean and mountains at breakfast, exercising along the long seafront boulevard, taking in the beautiful and well maintained gardens and just watching the water ripple on the sand - you seriously cannot tire of the views. This year we had our 21st wedding anniversary at the Italian al a carte restaurant. The view at twilight was so very memorable, family celebration with the mountains turning orange as the sun set before the moon shon on the water on the bay. Really special times. PLEASE NOTE : Icmeler is so close to the Greek Islands like Kos (I think <50km) and so very far from any troublesome borders. It feels incredibly safe. Please don’t let scare mongering in the media let you miss out on this treat.

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