As a seasoned traveler, or let’s be honest, a weekly traveler, I like to feel like I have a reasonable idea of what ‘bucket list worthy places’ are.
Obviously, this decision will always come down to personal preference, and generally I prefer a beautiful setting over the quality and aesthetics of a hotel. As an adventurer, enjoying the great outdoors, exploring locations, and experiencing a variety of optional activities is key, and that’s what Hillside Resort offers you. This is a compliment in itself, as most of our guests are repeat customers.
So a few weeks ago, when I was invited on a press trip to Hillside, I was struck by how beautiful and serene the resort was, largely due to its private, secluded coves and beaches. Hillside is located on the beautiful Turkish coastline of Fethiye, a port city on Turkey’s southwestern Turquoise Coast, nestled among pine-covered hills with a beautiful private bay with three pebble beaches. This little paradise has something for everyone, from families with kids to adventure seekers, couples and even individuals looking for a digital detox.
You can engage in a variety of activities including water sports, picnics, kid-friendly activities, spa treatments, adults-only beaches, mouth-watering food and more. Below we’ve outlined some tips and things you must do if you go there!
tip: Go just before peak season (May or early June). We went in May and it was the perfect time. There was endless space on the beach, it wasn’t too crowded and the perfect temperature was only about 24 degrees. The beach itself is not large so expect it to be crowded during peak season.
What you must do:
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Watch a movie under the stars on the beach. Hillside is holding summer screenings, and I was really looking forward to it as it was my first time experiencing an outdoor movie theater. We cuddled up with blankets and popcorn, looked up at the stars, and watched old black and white movies. A perfect evening that definitely lived up to the hype.
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Sample delicious Mediterranean-style cuisine at Pasha Restaurant on the bay and later spice things up with a DJ! Also check out the main restaurant, which offers an unrivaled buffet experience. You know how much Loanne and I love our food. I was spoiled for choice here… there were over 20 different desserts ranging from Oreo cake to soufflé, panna cotta, crème brûlée and various flavors of ice cream. You name it, and it was there. Nutella ice cream was really delicious, but…
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Swim, swim, swim. To me, the beach and private bay are what made this place magical. The sparkling turquoise waters are truly beautiful. It’s cold, but if you spend a long time in it, you’ll feel alive! I swam out to the pontoon every day and soaked up the sun’s rays. Pure, unadulterated happiness.
Personally, I will definitely be back to Hillside and maybe even next time for my own luxurious digital detox….
