It is only known to a select clientele. A secret gem hidden inconspicuously off the main pedestrian-only shopping street in Alacati.  Word has been spreading amongst not only the Turkish jetset, but international travelers as well.  Alavya turned ten in 2023 and has made its mark in the hospitality industry for being super special.  Secretly situated, Alavya offers the best of both worlds while in Alacati, a traditional Turkish town full of spirit on the western coast of Turkey on the Cesme Peninsula.  Here guests can stumble onto the cobblestone streets lined with colorful cafes and shops or venture off the beaten path to visit UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Those coming by car with luggage can enter from the back side where the reception area is. A magical purple potion (special blend of Hibiscus tea) is offered to guests upon arrival.  It is like you are entering a hidden secret community and this concoction prepares for what’s to come.  Stress seems to ease away every step of the way walking into Alavya’s garden setting. After all, the place is affectionately called, “The Happiness Factory.”

Once upon a time, it was an open-air cinema.  It has been lovingly transformed by proud Turkish owners into an intimate boutique hotel.  Renowned Turkish designer, Hakan Ezer was called upon to add his magical touch.  His signature can be seen in the details all around the property and in the rooms and suites.

Today, Alavya has six separate little buildings/houses named Opal, Jade, Ruby, Turquoise, Aquamarine and Tourmaline.  In total, there are 25 rooms including some suites and lofts.  Hakan has chosen a country modern style that creates a homey atmosphere in both the rooms and common areas. Artwork has been personally selected by Hakan to compliment the colors in each room and furniture pieces custom crafted.  A friendly teddy bear is waiting on the beds for each new visitor.

Every room also has nice white fringed bathrobes a bit more stylish than usual and white flipflops in unique round packages.  Some rooms have small private patios that provide a tranquil outdoor space. The property has an inner courtyard with a variety of trees from mulberry to olive and mastic as well as fruit trees.

The pool area is a fantastic surprise.  It offers long lap lanes and is lined with brilliant turquoise and green colors of the Aegean Sea making it an artistic focal point on the property.

It is the perfect place to relax and meet fellow like-minded members of the special Alavya community.  Bright pink Hibiscus flowers accent edges around the pool and jacuzzi.  And all the sun lotions and hats needed are offered on the communal table poolside.

This small property has hidden areas at every turn.  There is a open-air yoga studio studio run by Alexis Gulliver offering complimentary classes and their Miboso Spa in the lower sanctums. A little boutique offers souvenirs to take home as keepsakes.  The dining area is alfresco in an open courtyard as well as a balcony overlooking the pool.  Whimsical art curated by Hakan is seen throughout the hotel by acclaimed Turkish artists.  And an Alavya signature sprinkled about the property in bowls, are hand painted stones with words like hope, happy, rejoice, laugh.

Alavya’s MITU Café Bar-Restaurant is overseen by chef Huseyin Pancar offering the best of local flavors and produce.  The morning starts with an amazing Turkish breakfast buffet set on a long wooden table inside loaded with everything under the Turkish sun with goodies homemade each day.  The choices are diverse from cheeses, fruits and vegetables to breads, homemade honey, yogurt, eggs, sweets, flavorful dips and more.  Lunches can be ordered poolside and dinners are either alfresco or indoors with a wonderful menu to choose from offering seasonal delicacies.

The Alavya property can accommodate business meetings and seminars in a unique setting and atmosphere.  The spacious and magical gardens and courtyards are the perfect place for special celebrations like weddings, anniversaries, and birthdays.

Alavya also takes protecting the environment seriously since they opened its doors 10 years ago.  The “Welavyaalacati” project provides local support to the region for environmental cleanliness.

The final special tidbit that is fun to know is the origin of the hotel name, Alavya.  It came about when the owner’s little girl could not say “I love you.” Her version was: A lav ya and thus Alavya seemed the perfect name. And for the past 10 years, all who come to experience this hidden paradise, fall in love with Alavya.