Hotel Review
Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Istanbul, Turkey
THE BACKGROUND: One of Istanbul's long-established five-star hotels - it is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year - with 500 rooms/suites but now joined by the adjacent Swissôtel Living which opened in March. This offers 63 luxury studio, one-, two- and three-room apartments across 14 categories.
WHERE IS IT? On the European side of the city almost opposite one of Istanbul's major tourist attractions, the beautiful Dolmabahce Palace and conveniently close to the terminus of the city's modern tram service which links most of Istanbul's main attractions.
THE HOTEL: A compact lobby area and lounge that belies the size of the rooms to come. Hotel staff are friendly and efficient and a small concierge desk will arrange all the tours and theatre bookings your clients might want.
THE ROOM: Spectacular, both inside and for the stunning views of the Bosphorus from the three-room Swissôtel Living apartment. Furnishings are lavish across the bedroom, dining/work area, fully-equipped kitchen and exceptionally spacious living room. Amenities such as wide-screen TVs (two), Nespresso machine, walk-in shower etc. are standard.
DINING: Breakfast is served on the ground floor for Swissôtel Living guests but all the other dining options are in the main hotel, the Gaja Restaurant (plus roof-top Gaja Roof in summer), Cafe Swiss, Chalet for Swiss and Alpine cuisine and the Miyako Japanese restaurant. Like so much else in the hotel, Les Ambassadeurs Bar also offers spectacular Bosphorus views.
THE FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES: Swissôtel Living has a rooftop infinity pool. In the main hotel there's a 4000 sq m Amrita Spa & Wellness with every conceivable bath and treatment, Jacuzzi, ice-grotto, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, sauna plus tennis court and fitness area. Other facilities include a separate children's pool and pool-side bar.
RECOMMEND TO: Anyone planning a city break in Istanbul who wants to end a day's sightseeing in a luxury hotel with lavish amenities. Swissôtel Living is also an ideal choice for longer-stay and business guests.
THE COST: Swissôtel Living is not a cheap option but perfect for those clients who demand the very best. Special offer rates currently available range from €450 to €3000.
THE DETAILS: Bayildim Cad. No: 2 Macka, Besiktas 34357 Istanbul, Turkey
T: 0090 212 326 1100
F: 0090 212 326 1122
E: reservations.bosphorus@swissotel.com;
The Verdict
Exceptional
Pass
Loved It!
Farce
Swissôtel The Bosphorus is an outstanding deluxe hotel where frequent renovations have kept it at the forefront of Istanbul's luxury hotel portfolio. Still more luxurious is the new Swissôtel Living that provides a 'residence concept' allowing guests to enjoy the full range of hotel services within the comfort of their own four walls. A high quality product.
Alan Orbell
Managing editor, Selling Long Haul
