Kosk Orman Butik Otel

We took a spur of the moment ride on the local ferry for 80 TL and ended up with a surprise overnight stay on Büyükada. It was a lovely break from busy Istanbul. Getting here from the ferry terminal is uphill, but google maps gives a direct route. With a light bag, the walk is doable, or you can take one of the electric run abouts if your bag is heavy. The property sits by the pine forest, and it was so nice to sleep with the screened windows open while the fresh air drifted in. The area is quiet, and I slept really well. Our hosts were warm and welcoming, there were lots of friendly cats, and breakfast was a feast of homemade jams and fresh hot pastries. Thanks for the lovely room, Ozdemir.

We’re expats living in Istanbul City, and staying here felt like stepping back in time and getting far away from the city. The historic building is beautiful and distinctive, the hosts are warm, and there’s a very quiet atmosphere around the place. We loved the Bosphorus views through the trees, complimentary tea and water, and the cozy upper floor lounge with comfortable furniture, books and board games. Breakfast was extraordinarily good, with quality cheeses, homemade rose jam, candied chestnut, candied vegetables and fruits, borek, eggs, bread, and plenty more. The value is phenomenal, and the setting is hard to beat. The walk from the ferry station takes 20 minutes uphill. We’re in good shape, but it was a haul with heavy backpacks, so anyone less fit or wanting an easier trip should charter a carriage or buggy from the docks. Also, sound carries in the historic building, which doesn’t have sound insulation. If you’re in a ground floor room and want an early night, you may hear every footstep from guests upstairs. We’ll definitely visit again and recommend it.

Rooms are clean, and you can help yourself to tea in the kitchen. There’s also a small swimming pool. It’s the sort of cozy, calm homestay that made me feel at home on a city break. I knew I’d picked the right place as soon as I arrived. The breakfast is amazing, with lots of homemade marmalade, and it’s lovely to relax, look at the view, and enjoy the morning meal. Özdemir Hey is very helpful and does his best for guests. Fresh air, a cozy home, a great breakfast, a pool and a view, what more do you need on the island? I’ll come back with my family. Enjoy your stay!

The rooms are a bit old, and everything squeaks when you walk around. Still, the atmosphere is lovely, the people are truly amazing, and it made for a memorable stay.