CAPPADOCIA’S MUSEUM HOTEL: LUXURY SET IN STONE
IMAGINE ANCIENT CAVE-DWELLING ELEMENTS
colliding with chic design — and you have the perfect description of Relais & Châteaux’s Museum Hotel, the only hotel in all of Turkey to have been selected to represent the esteemed brand. This true upscale boutique property is set in the heart of the Cappadocia region of Central Turkey and is etched into the natural rock formations that define the very essence of the area.
The inspiration and authenticity behind the hotel’s concept have been perfectly captured by the passionate visions of founder Omer Tosun. His pioneering efforts have been a catalyst for the region’s unrelenting growth in tourism. Guests actually spend their stay surrounded by a collection of priceless antiques supplemented by the culture of ancient Cappadocia, rendering the ambiance of a living museum. Meticulously renovated with ultra-modern facilities, the deluxe rooms are expertly designed and flawlessly adorned with endemic antiquities, art, and Turkish carpets. Every inch of the property has been immaculately groomed for the high standards required of today’s luxury hotels.
Each of the 30 rooms and suites is uniquely crafted out of the natural rock caves exuding ancient authenticity yet providing characteristic luxury amenities. Access to the accommodations are via well-lit tunnels and — as would be expected of five-star properties — they come with a pillow menu, tea and coffee-making facilities, minibar, HD TV, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Sumptuous suites are available in specific categories and feature expanded living sections along with exclusive amenities such as whirlpools and free flowing wine taps dispensing white and red Turkish wines. As a characteristic example of the Ottoman influence, many of the extravagant suites possess opulent artwork, and some feature a private garden commanding the quintessential view of the Cappadocia countryside.
The traditional tastes of Cappadocia are impeccably served in the Lil’a Restaurant. Using vegetables and ingredients grown on the hotel’s own 500acre organic farm, the creative menus, curated by Head Chef Saygin Sesli, provide diners with distinctly natural flavors. The elegant decor of the restaurant is highlighted by the deep color of the wood ceiling and accentuated by the square, hand-hewn stonewalls. The beauty of the room is only eclipsed by the stunning view out of the beautifully draped windows.
Speaking of views, there is an incomparable opportunity for early risers to view the drifting hot air balloons that dapple the landscape with the colorful sunrise serving as the cinematic backdrop. The aesthetic charm of the event results in a one-of-a-kind, once-in-a-lifetime experience. On-site concierge personnel are more than happy to arrange a firsthand ballooning experience or a menu of local activities such as horseback riding, golf, or cooking lessons.
The hotel is set in a valley allowing the midday sun to penetrate the outdoor terrace area and breathtaking infinity pool. Situated in the shadows of the nearby fairy chimneys, the hotel’s ecological garden is devoted to horticulture production; the grapes, for instance, are used in the hotel’s very own wines, and the free-range chickens provide the eggs served at breakfast. The magical hands of the hotel’s massage technicians are available to pamper guests in various venues, including the scenic Massage Terrace or in the privacy of your accommodation. Special arrangements can be made to receive exclusive massage treatments in the serenity of the select hidden valleys of Cappadocia.
The synergy of Cappadocia’s mystical magic and unique topography is manifested in the charm of incomparable Museum Hotel. museumhotel.com.tr
— BP