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SUMAHAN ON THE WATER

Fabulous converted distillery on the banks of the Bosphorus

BANG ON THE BANKS OF THE BOSPHORUS, Sumahan on the Water boasts unrivalled views over Istanbul’s iconic skyline. This sleek waterside boutique hotel houses 20 crisp and minimalist rooms.

Stylishly renovated from a 19th century Ottoman distillery on the Asian side and gazing out at the soaring Bosphorus Bridge, Sumahan on the Water makes a tranquil retreat in this sprawling city straddling two continents.

Clean-cut lines and neutral colours make the most of Sumahan’s light and airy outlook, while retaining a flavour of the building’s industrial past. Big-bedded, spacious rooms have stylish chairs, polished wood floors and luxurious marble bathrooms. Many have inviting open fireplaces perfect for cosying up in winter, and spectacular views come as standard.

Hit the spot
On the Asian banks of the Bosphorus – with a private launch.

Pillow Talk
All 20 rooms have spectacular views. Duplex Loft suites also have a private terraced garden and (in some) a private hammam.

Be savvy
You're well away from the hustle-bustle, but a 30-minute cab ride from town.

Be smitten
Brilliant boutique address on the Bosphorus.

Lapping waves

Ground floor guests can fling open their French doors onto a grassy terrace set with loungers, where you can snooze to the sound of lapping waves or watch ferries and sailboats bobbing on the Bosphorus – a tapestry of twinkling lights after dark.

Duplex Loft suites boast ceiling-high windows looking out at the Bosphorus Bridge and a private terraced garden. Some even have their own Turkish bath. Attention to detail is everywhere, and all rooms have flawless views.

Sumahan 1, the boutique hotel’s private launch, will whisk you across the Bosphorus to the European side of the city several times of the day, or (on arrangement) take you on a cruise around the Golden Horn. You can also use the regular public ferries, a short walk away in the village of Cengelköy, lined with timber mansions.

Enjoy relaxed Turkish fare al fresco on Sumahan’s terrace, or tuck into first-rate seafood at the smart Kordon restaurant. Sumahan’s intimate spa (designed for just one couple) is the perfect place for a private traditional Turkish hammam and massage. It’s the ultimate wind-down, so booking ahead is essential.

Can’t-do-enough-staff are the icing on the cake at this buzzy yet serene boutique hotel – just the place for a romantic escape.

Sumahan on the Water was reviewed by Room for Romance

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Dining in
Dining on the scenic Waterfront Terrace Restaurant offers stunning views and drool-worthy menus. Freshly caught seafood and Mediterranean classic sit alongside Turkish favourites such as baked chicken with apple sauce and the ubiquitous kebab with yoghurt. Desserts are delicious. too.

Breakfast
Served until 10:30. Delicious breakfasts include a mezze-style selection of olives, jams, local cheeses and Turkish style bagels.

Room service
Available 24 hours.

Where?
The Waterfront Terrace restaurant at Sumahan on the Water

What’s cooking?
Fresh seafood, Mediterranean favourites and Turkish classics.

Top Table?
Definitely on the terrace with views of the dancing lights over the Bosphorus.

See & Do
Marvel at the opulence of the Ottoman palaces of Dolmabahce – the Ottoman sultan's grand home on the shores of the Bosphorus – and Topkapi, with its famous harem. Admire the perfect symmetry of the Blue Mosque, and visit one of the scores of museums celebrating Istanbul's colourful history. A boat trip to the Princes' Islands – where transport is still on horse and buggy – makes a great day out of the city.

Spa
Sumahan's intimate spa – not to be missed – will ensure you feel better when you leave than when you arrived. Work up a steam in the sleek marble hammam, or be pummelled and oiled with Shiatsu or Swedish massage, aromatherapy or reflexology. Gym bunnies can get their fix in the small but fully equipped gym.

Diary Dates

September/November
The Arts comes to Istanbul for the Biennial, with a feast of film, modern art and music.

July
Tap your foot at the annual Istanbul Jazz festival, where headline acts include many international big names.

GETTING THERE

Location
Kuleli Cad. 51, Cengelkoy, 34684.

Parking
There is free guest parking. However, we don't recommend driving in Istanbul.

Trains
Haydarpasa station – 5km.

Taxis
Around EUR 35 from the airport.

Airport
Ataturk International – 35km. Ataturk International – 35km. EasyJet flies to Istanbul (Sabiha Gökcen) from London Luton and Gatwick airports. British Airways and Turkish Airlines also fly to Istanbul from London.

Rooms and suites
20 rooms, including 13 suites.

Special features
All rooms look directly out over the Bosphorus. All are spacious with luxury bathrooms, and some duplex Loft suites boast a private hammam.

Also…
Guests can cross the water in Sumahan's private launch, de-stress in the intimate spa. There's wi-fi throughout.

ESSENTIAL INFO

Rates guide
EUR 240 - 550

Open/closed
Open all year.

Check-in
14:00

Check-out
Midday.

Minimum night stay?
No.

Children
Welcome.

Pets
No.

Air conditioning
Yes.

Wedding License?
Civil weddings and receptions for up to 200 guests can be catered for.

SUMAHAN ON THE WATER

Room for Romance Extra