SAMI~TRAVELS

Amanruya, Bodrum

 

Amanruya, the turkish outpost of the Singapore based Aman group, brings understated style and space to the crowded Turkish coast.  Starting its third summer seasons, it might not be as polished as the more established Aman resort in Asia, but it is definately worth the journey with easy connections from all around Europe via Turkish Airlines Istanbul hub,

 

On arrival the Aman driver met me curbside for the short 25 minute drive to the resort.  As it was closing midnight the staff were quick to transfer me to my Villa, where a small selection of turkish appetizers and a bottle of wine was waiting incase I wanted a midnight snack.

 

The villa itself was decorated in typical understated Aman style, and was an architectural triump, with muted shades of white and blonde wood domintating the spacious room, with double doors opening to the garden and the infinity pool overlooking the mediterranean.  The garden , whilst not completely private , provided a daybed and also a private dining area and sunloungers.  It is worth mentioning there was very little foot traffic past the villa as it was one of the last ones on the block.

 

The resort is laid out like a traditional turkish village with winding cobble stoned pathways connecting the different areas of the resort.  Dining is on demand in several pavillions and a choice of menus is available with the catering manager eager to accomodate any special requests. Food varied from mediocrew to good as often seems to be the way with Amans.  Aswell as all villas having their own infinity pools the resort also boasts a stunning mainpool, which I hardly ever saw anyone use. As in most Amans you often feel like you are the only guest in the whole resort , even when at full capacity.  One of the highlights was the library perched on top of a 3 floor tower for afternoon drinks and watching the sun set.

 

Amanruya also hosts a beach club strictly for hotel residents a 5 minute drive or a leisurly 20 minute walk away through the pine forest. Non-motorised water sports are available and a casual restaurant nestles in between the pine trees overlooking the turquoise sea offering fresh seafood and light meals.

 

Several excursions are available and I opted to take the Aman boat, modelled after a traditional Riva, for a half a day tour of snorkeling and lunch. The boat came manned by a captain and deckhand and lunch was provided on board to my earlier specifications.  A truly wonderful way to spend the afternoon.

 

I would have no hesitations in returning to Amanruya, but if privacy was an issue I would ensure I would have one of the villas at the end of the blocks on a higher level.

 

rating 5/5        www.amanruya.com