A secluded secret paradise on the Turkish Riviera.
Perched high on a hillside with 360-degree panoramic views overlooking a scenic cove on the Datca Peninsula of Turkey, where the Aegean and Mediterranean seas meet, one finds this magnificent resort, D Maris Bay. Almost two million square feet of land (about 60 hectares) encompass the property full of pine forests, volcanic mountain ranges, shimmering waters, natural private beaches and tons of flora and fauna. It is home to 188 different plant varieties and precious species.
Guests can arrive by helicopter, boat, or car. D Maris Bay has its own helipad. Nearby Turkey airports include Dalaman 1.5 hours or Bodrum 2 hours away. Upon arrival, first impressions are lasting. Once inside the lobby and looking straight ahead is one of the most breathtaking views on planet earth.
Deciding what to do first is a problem at D Maris Bay…one of those 1 percenter life problems. Which of the five beach clubs to go to first? Which restaurant to make reservations for night one? Hit sunset with a sundowner on the helipad’s Green Hill for some bubbly and soft jazz? The D Gym or the Mytha Spa? Or tennis or yoga or jogging on the outdoor track or kayaking or water skiing? The brain will be overloaded deciding what to do and where to go.
When ready to move out of hibernation, try one of the little covered transport boats. They make the rounds to all the beaches so just jump out whenever you see one that suits you. If not ready for the real world, then try Silence Beach where music, phones and children are taboo. Maris Beach is reserved for super VIP suite holders, but next door is the equally lovely Bay Beach. There’s also Manos Beach next to the Greek taverna and La Guerite Beach below this lively French outpost. Oh, and there are two pools to choose from, one on a big deck and the other indoors.
Sooner or later, it’s dinner time. Hmmm what to choose…. Nusr-et, the famed Turkish steak house owned by flamboyant server, “Salt Bae: Gokce, Zuma for its famous Japanese cuisine, La Guerite, a French outpost with seafood and Aegean specialties with a DJ setting the tone, Manos Greek taverna serving super fresh fish including just caught octopus with a great Greek ambiance including traditional song and dance and plate throwing or D Maris Kitchen for a more laid-back bistro meal.
Service is divine at D Maris Bay. From the first encounter to the last, staff could not be more pleasant, helpful and kind. In all, D Maris Bay has 5 unique restaurants, 8 bars, 3 lounges, 2 pools, 20 experiences and is surrounded by a peaceful hidden bay, soft white sand beaches and acres of lush forest. There is so much to see, do, eat and drink at D Maris Bay that guests never need to leave this hilltop oasis.
D Maris Bay is truly the crown jewel of the Aegean along the Turkish Riviera, the ultimate destination resort marrying ultra-luxury with escapism.
Hope Gainer
