Dalyan Holiday Hotel

I came to Turkey hoping to find somewhere I could stay a little longer, like a residency, and get some writing done. To my amazement, I found exactly that and much more. It was the happiest discovery. I stayed just nine days, yet it felt like arriving at a family home and knowing everyone for ages. I left a piece of my heart there. Canan and Kerem dreamed up this beautiful place and run it with so much soul and generosity, alongside others who are a joy to be around. Everyone was caring, attentive, kind and inspiring. The atmosphere brings people together in a way that feels like a warm collective embrace. There's plenty of laughter and sharing ideas, but also privacy and time to reflect, marvel, or work on projects alone or with others. It feels full of possibility. The room was cosy, clean and comfortable, and the rest of the hotel was thoughtfully done. A lovely living room and indoor and outdoor seasonal kitchens are especially convenient for a longer stay. There are bikes and a kayak to explore the area, and cosy places to go out at night. The surrounding beauty of Dalyan, with nature, ancient ruins and tombs, mountains, rivers and lakes, adds so much to the experience. I can't wait to see everyone again. Knowing a place like this exists makes me excited to develop projects. If you're after lasting connections and memorable experiences, this is the place to be in Dalyan.

The bathroom was the big problem. It was hard to get water to a comfortable temperature, either scalding or freezing, and the shower was clogged, so the bathroom flooded. Otherwise, the hotel is amazing, with its large pool, garden and terrace facing the Lycian graves. Breakfast was good and generous, and the host was charming.

The breakfast by the river was great, with one of the best views around. They offer vegan breakfast, and even though I'm very much a meat-and-dairy person, I really liked what they served. The hosts and crew were super friendly. We didn't have time to use the nice pool and garden, unfortunately. It's very close to Dalyan centre but tucked away from the noise and tacky tourist stuff. Highly recommended!

The lounge is what makes this hotel special, especially for a longer stay in the winter. It was lovely to use the kitchen and sometimes cook together for each other. I was honoured to try Didem's vegan delights. With Kerem and his mum Canan as warm, joyful hosts, we became a little community, sharing food, tea, ideas and laughter. I came at the start of winter hoping for peace, a place to rest, write and reflect, and found all that and more. The artist residency idea works so well. The hotel is clean and modern, with Turkish charm, and my room was spacious yet cosy. Its position on the river is special, with views of the tombs and surrounding nature. My coffee breaks there became treasured quiet moments. This isn't just a hotel, it feels like home, and a heartwarming place to breathe, rest and open your mind to creativity and possibilities.