Hidden away on the southeastern Aegean coast of Turkey, on the northern coast of the Bodrum Peninsula in Mandalya Bay is Amanruya. Named after the Sanskrit word for peace, ‘aman’, and the Turkish word for dream, ‘ruya’, the property is surrounded by a Mediterranean pine forest and ancient olive groves. Set on a slope, it offers breathtaking views over the sea and a winding pathway leading to a private pebble beach.

An access road weaves its way through the trees before revealing a first glimpse of Amanruya and its graceful setting. Inspired by the region’s traditional architecture and building methods, the resort ascends through a series of elevated levels, offering a variety of courtyards and terraces. This creates the intimate and organic ambience of a village while still providing a sense of space and luxury. The resort combines Mediterranean and Ottoman architectural design elements, all the while complementing and respecting the property’s pristine natural surrounds. Building materials include local stone for structural walls, dark acajau wood for furniture, windows and door fittings, white Turkish marble for floors and hand-carved stone for interior wall details.

Amanruya offers 36 spacious and elegant Pool Terrace Cottages, each with a private garden and pool. Designed to welcome and soothe, the cottages are gracious homes away from home and a cool air of sophisticated calm prevails. The 75 square metre cottages feature a four-poster bed, two sofas, dining table and two chairs, rectangular writing desk, a traditional Turkish mangal charcoal fireplace, separate vanity area and clothes closet and a large, naturally lit open bathroom. This features a rain shower and large bath tub from which one can enjoy private garden views. Traditional handmade rugs and throws from Istanbul provide warmth and an element of Turkish opulence.

There are four dining pavilions each with a different setting and all with sea views. Turkey is blessed with a variety of microclimates that provides an amazing array of produce. This, combined with the freshest of local seafood, allows the kitchen at Amanruya to deliver an ever-changing seasonal menu.

Approximately 500 metres west of the main buildings is the informal beach club. Protected by a headland and curled around a number of wellestablished trees, it consists of a series of terraces on which sun loungers overlook the small pebble beach, a jetty and an offshore swimming pontoon.

With a perfect location and the Aman touch, a stay at Amanruya is sure to soothe the soul and relax body and mind.