Just 15 miles west of the bustling Aegean resort town of Marmaris lies Orhaniye. This quaint Turkish fishing village touts itself as having "one of the prettiest bays in the Mediterranean." Until recently fishing, sheep farming, olive harvesting and beekeeping were the village's predominant sources of income; however, family-run hotels and small, intimate restaurants now coax tourists from the busy resorts to this unspoiled hamlet on the bay.
The Palmiye Hotel is situated on the bay just feet from the sea. Each of its 14 guest rooms is modestly furnished and includes an en suite shower and balcony overlooking the sea. Full lounging facilities and a bar are available poolside, while the on-site restaurant serves a selection of Turkish- and European-inspired specialties indoors or out in the garden. A second bar is located within the restaurant and pours local beers and spirits, wine and other imported drinks into the evening. Day trips to places like the nearby waterfall in Selale can be arranged by hotel staff.
Palmiye Hotel
Orhaniye Köyü Marmaris
Mugla Türkiye
011-90-252-487-1134
palmiyehotel.com
Open May through October, this motel is nestled further inland about 220 yards from the beach. Seamless views of the bay below can be seen from the balcony of each of the Erol Motel's 15 guest rooms, which also include a private bathroom and either a double or two single beds. The 40-seat restaurant prepares seasonal dishes using produce grown in the hotel's garden. An extensive wine list is provided, and a range of cocktails and other beverages are offered as well. Guests are welcome to enjoy their meals indoors or at the pool.
Erol Motel
Orhaniye Köyü
Kizkumu Marmaris
011-90-252-487-1018
erolmotel.com
The Dogan Hotel's waterfront location makes it an ideal stop for guests hoping to steal some time at the beach. This 30-room hotel includes a pool and children's paddling pool, and guests are offered rides on the family-owned boat and beach-side meal and refreshment service. The hotel restaurant's veteran chef prepares local specialties using fresh fish and prawns caught daily from the bay and organic produce from the garden. Trips to local destinations like the Turkish Mountains and local coves are arranged by the Dogan Hotel, and several attractions, including the ancient ruins of Cedrae on the island of Saray and the Marmaris Castle and Museum, are nearby.
Dogan Hotel
011-90-252-487-1074
doganhotel.net
