Outside the bustle and business of Istanbul stands a hotel with a commitment to tranquility. A tiny cove and marina welcome the weary traveler, and green hills backdrop this venue, home to one of Istanbul’s oldest five-star hotels, and biggest and most extensive spas. The Grand Tarabya hotel provides guests a peaceful retreat away from the chaos and grind of the big city.

Located 15 minutes from downtown Istanbul, off the northern end of the green line on the metro, the Grand Tarabya provides an unmatched location for the Istanbul traveler. Guests can leave Istanbul and step into serene seclusion at the Grand Tarabya. The surrounding sights and sounds resemble a scene from a quaint French or Italian coast town. The nestled above the deep blues of the Bosphorus, the hotel overlooks lines of colorful boats in it secluded cove, and homey old apartments pocking the green hillside above the sea. The “city resort” provides a full service of relaxing accommodations in a soothing setting away from downtown Istanbul.

Beyond the terrific locale and stunning views, the true pride of the Tarabya dwells inside – the Therapia Spa. At 4500 square meters, the Therapia Spa has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most extraordinary spas in Istanbul. Therapia features four traditional Turkish hammams, and luxury spa suites with a view of the Bosphorus. The spa features 14 different massage rooms. The treatments vary, and the spa offers: traditional Turkish hammams, sand massages, authentic Thai massages, hydro therapy, fusion therapy, algae wrapping, salt peelings and more services are available at the Therapia spa. The vast spa draws from the unique history of the Grand Taraby – which has a reputation for healing.

Once finished at the spa, guests can return to their beautifully decorated suites. A panorama of the Bosphorus sprawls out in front of the Tarabya, creating a picturesque view from all of the hotels’ windows. For opulent guests, the Presiential Suite looms on the top floor – a duplex with the best view in the hotel.

The hotel features four options for cuisine, all of which benefit from the Tarabya’s beautiful location. At The Brasserie Restaurant, the Tarabya’s main restaurant, guests will enjoy international cuisine while gazing out on the Bosphorus. Meanwhile, in the Main lobby, The T Lounge offers a variety of teas, coffees, snacks, and pastries, accompanied by live piano, harp, or violin music during the traditional afternoon high tea. The quaint Recharge, Eat, and Drink (R.E.A.D) Café & Bakery provides a quite venue for guests to grab a book and enjoy a coffee, tea, or pastry. Enjoy a summer sea breeze, as you read one of the communal books and sip a coffee on the terrace of R.E.A.D. Café & Bakery. At Limani Balik, Tarabya’s fine dining restaurant, guests dine on delectable Bosphorus inspired cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and local spices.

The Grand Tarabya, with its place in Turkish cinema and history, holds a special nostalgia in Istanbul. Newly rebuilt and remodeled, the hotel provides modern modern touches to the tradition of hospitality. Escape from the city, to the charming landscapes and yacht harbor of The Grand Tarabya.

Tip: Oreo Cheesecake at the R.E.A.D. Café & Brasseries might be one of the best cheesecakes in Istanbul. 

Cover Image courtesy of Leading Hotels od the World/The Grand Tarabya