TRAVEL Escapes

Nestled in the Naile Sultan pine grove in the sophisticated Kuruçeşme district, Mandarin Oriental sits alongside the shimmering shoreline on the European side of Istanbul. Its perfect location provides panoramic views across the Bosphorus Strait and a central location to explore the famous city.

The composition of the hotel itself is a marvel, with its low-rise design, elegant marble-clad façade and Ottoman-style slate roof. Lush gardens and private wooden pavilions along the waterfront add to the luxurious and welcoming nature of the premises.

Once inside, the marble, bronze and glass elements of the interior design create a contemporary setting that is both alluring and comforting. The hotel’s five-star status is always on full display, and we felt that we could have been the only guests there, thanks to the staff’s attentive service.

Rooms Fit For Royalty

As we made our way along the pristine hallways of the hotel, we were fortunate enough to inspect various accommodations on offer to guests. Each guestroom and suite is spacious, fully equipped and offers picturesque views of the Bosphorus.

Most options include balconies or terraces and feature striking design elements comprising ornate bronze and onyx marble. Organic textures and patterns with bespoke metal and other details are also included in the impressive interior designs.

Many of these rooms are adaptable for family needs, and the hotel provides 24-hour room service to all guests.

Our suite was as beautiful and spacious as you’d expect from the high calibre of Mandarin Oriental. The highlight was, simply, one of the most comfortable beds we have ever had the pleasure of sleeping in.

CULINARY SPLENDOUR AT OLEA BOSPHORUS & THE BAR

On the first night of our stay, we were invited to the celebrated Olea Bosphorus & The Bar, an exceptional venue serving up authentic Italian flavours. Once seated, we ordered an array of options from the impressive menu, and thoroughly enjoyed every dish laid on the table. The octopus carpaccio was perfection and the oxtail fettuccine was worth every bite.

Novikov Istanbul

On our second night, we indulged at the world-renowned, all-day restaurant, Novikov.

This spectacular ground-floor location offers a fusion of Asian, Mediterranean and Italian dishes, along with magnificent views of the Bosphorus. We found the pan-fried Asian delicacies particularly appetising, and we were hugely impressed by the quality of the ingredients and the warm service.

Additional Dining Venues

There are four additional dining venues, including: the contemporary Novikov Lounge Bar, the alfresco Novikov Pool Bar, the soothing Bosphorus Lounge and the enticing The Mandarin Cake Shop.

Relax And Recharge At The Spa

Perhaps our favourite individual experience at the hotel was our time at the luxurious spa, where we indulged in a relaxing 60-minute massage. The aroma of the signature ginger oil and the soothing pressure eased tired muscles and left us feeling deeply pampered and relaxed.

The spa’s 3,500sq/m facilities include 11 treatment rooms, a VIP treatment room, a sauna, a steam room and gender-separate Hammams, amongst other options.