Review – Mandarin Oriental Bodrum: Unveiling Opulence and Serenity in the Turkish Riviera

Nestled in the idyllic setting of Paradise Bay, along the coastline of the Turkish Riviera, Mandarin Oriental Bodrum is a beacon of luxury that exceeds expectations.

Stepping on to the arrival deck at Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, the view, is quite simply, breathtaking.

Sitting on a scenic hillside of olive groves and pine forests, the resort design is inspired by Aegean architecture and blends seamlessly into the landscape, creating a harmonious connection between the contemporary buildings and the sea. Airy interiors draw a scene of modern opulence, with polished wooden panels, muted marble and modern art.

The wow factor continues with the accommodation which ranges from spacious suites with private terraces to villas with landscape gardens and infinity pools. Each is a sanctuary of pure indulgence. The lavishly appointed villas boast expansive living spaces, dedicated butler service, and panoramic views that redefine the concept of a five-star resort.

Eight glamorous bars and restaurants scatter the resort. Assaggio offers a symphony of authentic Italian flavours in an elegant setting with sea views. At the Blue Beach Club & Bar you can graze on fresh seafood, pasta and salads while gazing across to the resort’s Louis Vuitton beach. Other options include Hakkasan – serving the globally renowned delicacies of the Far East, and Ioki on the Beach which offers an innovative Japanese menu. Sunset cocktails are taken at The Mandarin Bar.

Service, as you would expect, is impeccable, with each guest assigned a guest experience assistant to cater to their every need. Facilities include a Resort Lifestyle Lounge offering scuba diving, water sports and boat rentals, a designer shopping promenade featuring Chanel, Prada, Hermes et al, and of course a world-class spa…

A destination in itself the spa at Mandarin Oriental Bodrum takes a holistic approach to wellbeing, drawing inspiration from ancient healing traditions as well as modern aesthetics. Natural materials and a verdant courtyard enhances the connection to the surrounding environment, creating an immersive experience that begins the moment you step through the doors.

Spanning 2,700 sqm and spread over two levels, the spa offers a wonderful range of facilities, including separate male and female hydrotherapy suites, and tranquil outdoor spaces. The vitality pool, with its strategically placed jets and stunning views of the Aegean Sea, offers a therapeutic escape, while the traditional Hammam provides an authentic Turkish bathing experience. There’s also a beautiful spa garden, complete with a jaccuzi, outdoor sauna, a swimming pool and treatment cabanas – surrounded by aromatic jasmine creepers and cypress trees.

Treatments range from a dedicated menu of Hammam experiences to signature therapies, holistic rituals, massages and scrubs. Beauty fans can take advantage of the advanced skincare and body menus, which includes offerings from the cutting-edge aesthetic brands Dr. Barbara Strum and Biologique Recherche. Therapists are excellent – notably Yulia who performed one of the best massages I’ve experienced.

One of the spas signature treatments is The Mediterranean Journey which is performed in the traditional Hammam. The ritual begins with an olive seed body scrub followed by a hydrating body wrap of local pine-flower and honey and an Indian head massage. The blissful journey is completed with a traditional foam massage with heady aromatherapy oils.

Other holistic offerings include customised facials by Aromatherapy Associates. Advanced skin care offerings include The Booster VIP 02 Oxygenating Facial by Biologique Recherche and The Signature Sturmglow by Dr. Barbara Sturm.

The wellness experience at Mandarin Oriental Bodrum extends far beyond the treatment room, with a comprehensive fitness centre equipped with Technogym, as well as Reformer Pilates and yoga studios. The fitness centre offer personal training, pilates and yoga sessions as well as a range of daily complimentary classes including Pilates Sculpt, Crunch & Burn and Metcom.

The spa at Mandarin Oriental Bodrum offers a range of wellness programmes including the Bodrum Retreat. The three day retreat includes healthy welcome amenities, private yoga, pilates and PT sessions, a Hammam ritual, a skin analysis and massage. Use of the fitness and spa facilities are also included.