Strategically located near glamorous Bodrum’s attractions, the villa provides a gateway to explore the region’s rich history and vibrant culture. The peninsula of Bodrum itself is relatively small but densely packed with fine dining and low-key restaurants, high-end shopping, a blossoming wine industry and all the marvels of the Turkish Riviera.
Bodrum attracts Turkey’s rich and famous every summer; their destination? Bodrum Peninsula’s public beaches. Yahsi Beach (20-minute drive) has some of the most pristine waters, Torba Beach (15-minute drive) is found in a protected cove and fringed by pine forests.
For those with a taste for history, the Castle of St Peter (9-minute drive) – perched on a natural peninsula in Bodrum Bay, was built in the 15th century by crusader knights from England, France, Italy and Germany, who each constructed one of the castle’s four towers. But that’s just the beginning. Bodrum is also home to the famed ruins of Halicarnassus (9-minute drive). Built in the 4th century BC and considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, its renowned mausoleum was destroyed by an earthquake in the 11th century (though some of its stones were used in constructing the Castle of St Peter).
Villa Koton’s breathtaking views over Bodrum as it rolls its way down to the sea reveals the town’s charming geography and architecture – white houses ranging over the hills under a bright stripe of blue sea. But perhaps you’re not keen to climb up and down hills on a hot day. That’s understandable. Thankfully, there are alternatives, including a Segway tour that explores the town’s beauty from all angles without breaking a sweat.
Feeling international? No worries, the Greek island of Kos is only a mile away, and the island of Rhodes is only a little farther. Indeed, these Greek islands are so close that Bodrum locals regularly take ferries for day trips and shopping. You’ll need your passport, but otherwise, Greece promises to be a great adventure.
Wine lovers will be happy to hear that Turkish viticulture is having a renaissance. The vineyards of Karnas (37-minute drive) offer a complete wine-tasting and dining experience. Make sure to try their Zinfandel and award-winning Syrah.
