I could hear the water, but I couldn’t really see it. After 14 plus hours of flying, when I arrived at Gaia by the Sea, all I really wanted to do was to get some sleep. The seaside views would have to wait.
Up with the sun, my private patio allowed for a lovely introduction to Çeşme, a Turkish resort town about an hour’s drive west of Izmir. Views of the sparkling blue Aegean could be enjoyed from the pillow-studded lounge area; I sat down for a moment, but the cushy respite just couldn’t compete with the patio’s petite hot spring. The boutique hotel has 11 suites, and they all boast private thermal pools.
Accommodation Options
When booking, guests can choose from three room categories: Sea View Suite, Garden View Suite, or King Suite. With a neutral color palate and décor made with natural materials, suites boast a soothing vibe. The shaggy hanging grass lamp meant you had to take care when getting in and out of bed, but it provided a lovely evening glow that made it easier to unwind after long days exploring the area.
My Sea View Suite wasn’t extravagant, but its striking simplicity hit all the marks. The ceilings were rounded; the shelves, exposed closet rod, long credenza, and bed platform, were all built in. All suites offer air conditioning, a small refrigerator and coffee machine, however there are no televisions.
The bathroom was broken into a unique trio of spaces. While the main sink area was located next to the bed and the shower directly behind it, the toilet and a second tiny sink were behind a door just off the entry to the suite.
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American travelers may find the bedding a bit unusual. Beds are made European-style, with no top sheet. However, instead of a duvet covered comforter, the bed is topped with a lightweight, textured blanket.
Much of your time in the area will likely be spent exploring nearby beaches or the bustling Alaçatı neighborhood, but save a bit of time to wander the hotel property. There’s a sunshine-filled courtyard, a wooden dock loaded with loungers, and a cute boutique stocked with clothes, bags, and assorted housewares.
The Most Important Meal of the Day
Rates include a memorable Turkish breakfast spread featuring cheese, olives, a variety of breads, local sausage, eggs an assortment of ways, jams, acuka (spicy Turkish tomato spread) honey, and much more.
Plan your day so you can linger at the table, as it’s a meal meant to savored and enjoyed. The open air dining room and its seaside views also have a way of convincing you to enjoy a slow start to your day.
Rates for Sea View Suites start at $436. Wi-Fi and parking are free; there’s an electric vehicle charger onsite. Gaia by the Sea is designed for adult guests. Children must be 12 or older to stay at the property.
Check for the latest prices for Gaia by the Sea at Booking.com.
Review and photos by San Francisco Bay Area travel writer and television correspondent Dana Rebmann. Her stay was organized by Go Türkiye, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.
