One of the most popular short-haul holiday destinations in Europe is doubtless, Turkey. But why not give the overcrowded beaches a miss or better yet extend your holiday with an extra few days to explore the ancient city of Istanbul from Four Seasons at Sultanahmet.
Four Seasons at Sultanahmet was created from a neoclassic Turkish prison and is a one of a kind luxury hotel. With 65 Old City luxury guest rooms and suites framing an open courtyard, Four Seasons Sultanahmet provides an intimate retreat for its guests and a chance to explore Istanbul’s most important landmarks. You can visit the 6th-century St. Sophia, the 15th-century Topkapi Palace and the 17th-century Blue Mosque, just a five-minute walk from the hotel. Each hotel room is designed around the buildings unique architecture and complete with full amenities, which include, a private bar, plasma TV, MP3 player docking station and more.
The Marmara Suite is one of the most prized suites at the hotel, featuring three private terraces, accessible from the bedroom and the living room. The suite is beautifully decorated in a historical Turkish theme with a hint of oriental motifs. The original works by Turkish artisans still decorate the room and are complimented by the soft earth tone colours with blue accents.
The fully equipped kitchenette with a pantry and spacious living room, make it perfect for throwing a dinner party should you have extra guests. Relax after a long day in the suites lavish marble bathroom with whirlpool tub and separate steam shower.You can also enjoy spectacular views of legendary Istanbul from each of the private terraces.
Exclusively for Four Seasons guests, you can experience a variety of revitalising massage treatments and the highest level of personalised attention at the Health Club. While there, you have to try the Balinese massage, a treatment that will relax you from head to toe by skin rolling, acupressure and using essential oils. The treatment stimulates circulation, eases muscle pain and takes you to a place of calmness, enabling you to enjoy your stay in its entirety.
Were sure your taste buds will be tingling for some authentic Turkish food at the Season’s refreshing and elegant restaurant. The Executive Chef Savaş Aydemir and his culinary team have put together a wonderful menu that features local cuisine, including homemade pastas and bread and Chef Aydemir's signature boneless lamb shank, which he cooks for eight hours.
Enjoy a more intimate setting at The Lounge, where you can indulge in a light meal, exotic cocktails and great conversation. Choose from its three sections: an intimate room with relaxing décor and a fireplace; a piano room with original artwork; and a winter garden with greenery. If the mood should take you, enjoy your drinks in the beautiful pergola overlooking the garden.
Of course you can’t forget the beautiful sites that Istanbul has to offer; discover the iconic Hagia Sophia museum with a private tour after hours courtesy of Four Seasons at Sultanahmet. A former church and later a mosque this incredible place is considered to be the eighth wonder of the world. Led by an expert guide, you’ll lay your eyes upon the museum’s incredible architecture, which includes its massive dome and intricate mosaics, some of which date back to the ninth century. The tour will make for a completely unforgettable and magical experience.
Feast your eyes on Sultanahmet’s 17th century spice market before you leave, where exotic food markets are selling spices, dried fruits, cheeses and olives in addition to jewelry and household goods.
