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Situated just south of the stunning Butterfly Valley, the
sleepy hamlet of Faralya is an idyllic retreat for guests wishing to stay in
unspoilt surroundings, relax in unperturbed peace and perhaps indulge in a few
nature-based activities. Opened in 2007, Mandarin was designed to be a rather
luxurious and yet delightfully informal hideaway from which to enjoy the
natural splendours of this region and according to our guests who have already
stayed there these objectives were certainly met.
Mandarin
has just eight guestrooms, one spacious room and one very special deluxe suite
(both with twin beds) were created from an existing villa, with the remaining
six double rooms in a cleverly designed new building. All the rooms are
extraordinarily spacious, and equipped to the highest standards, with
flat-screen TVs, CD/DVD players, fridges, a hospitality tray complete with a kettle
and a selection of herbal teas, tea & coffee, and of course,
air-conditioning. Each has a large balcony or terrace with reclining chairs
allowing you to relax and absorb the tranquillity, with particularly
magnificent sea views from the upper floor. The same views can be enjoyed
through panoramic windows from the jacuzzis inside each room, whilst the
particularly well-appointed en-suite bathrooms are provided with hairdryers and
a selection of toiletries.
Mandarin has a good-sized swimming pool and a large outdoor
jacuzzi and, as the hotel operates a no-children policy, guests can relax and
relish the gorgeous views in complete peace. Whilst the accommodation has been
designed on a grand scale, the ambience is relaxed and personal, deliberately
eschewing any formality. Your resident hosts, including Pacha the friendly dog
and self-appointed quality controller, entertainer and lifeguard, go out of
their way to make guests feel at home and to help them get the most out of
their stay.
Days
get off to a good start with a wholesome breakfast (which can be served in your
room at no extra cost if preferred) including homemade jams and eggs from
Mandarin’s own chickens cooked to order. The five course evening meals,
focusing on traditional recipes and fresh local produce and served in comfort
and style, really are an event that guests enjoy lingering over. The pre-booked
half-board option offers particularly good value.
In spite of Mandarin's rural setting, a hire car is not
strictly necessary, for there is a local taxi and the dolmus service (3 - 6
times per day depending on the season), which serves both the famous resort of
Oludeniz, just 10 kilometres away, and the bustling town of Fethiye can be
flagged down. Those hiring a car or using local taxis can reach the sandy beach
of Kidrak in around 10 minutes, whilst Kabak beach is a similar distance in a
four-wheel drive vehicle (or a 10-minute drive plus 15 minute walk). Confident
swimmers can bathe off the rocks at Aktas, around 20-30 minutes walk away.
For
those wishing to explore the wealth of archaeological sites, or visit some of
the areas natural attractions, and would prefer to be driven, the Mandarin
staff can pre-book a car and driver and for those who would prefer a lazy day’s
cruising, a gulet can also be pre-booked. Keen walkers are also kept happy with
plenty of scope right on Mandarin’s doorstep, as it lies on part of the route
of the famous Lycian Way.
With just eight rooms and its intimate atmosphere Mandarin
is the perfect venue for a small group to rent for a special celebration, club
event or even a business meeting and for nature lovers who also value a touch
of luxury and a high level of personal service we believe Mandarin to be one of
southwest Turkey’s most exclusive retreats.
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