Xanadu Resort Hotel

Although the name Xanadu might evoke images of the Far East, this resort has an Ancient Rome theme throughout. The spa is the only space that has some traces of Mongolian culture, including big mural paintings of the old capital city, and traditional garments on walls. The rest of the property, however, combines Ottoman architectural elements such as arches and latticework screens, with striking colonnades, a large Roman-style amphitheater, and fountains resembling ancient bath houses. The main pool area is particularly eye-catching. It is designed to resemble the ruins of an old temple, with sections of columns lining the edges of the pool, and a stone castle housing the water park. This theme may seem a little overdone to some, but the outdoors manage to feel more inviting than tacky. Interiors have a more classic, elegant decor style, with lots of wood accents, large flower-shaped ornaments throughout, and an earth-tone palette. 

Big lawns shaded by pine trees allow guests to spread out, and although there is loud music around one of the pools, those seeking a quieter retreat can easily find a serene spot nearby. There were dozens of Russian, British, and German families with children when we visited, but the Secret Garden area of the property remained peaceful and relaxing, with an expansive garden shaded by pine trees and elevated daybeds where guests napped away from the hustle and bustle. There is also an adult-only area on the beach -- complete with cabanas and a stylish lounge -- and a serene walkway along the river with lookout decks and benches. 

The Xanadu gets many points for its excellent food, beautiful grounds, and sandy beach, but it is generally priced like the more luxurious hotels in the area such as the Sueno Hotels Deluxe Belek, complete with a stunning 24-hour kids’ club, great spa, and access to its own golf course. Couples seeking seclusion may prefer the Gloria Serenity Resort, which is overall more high-end and in this same price range (or even cheaper depending on the season). The IC Hotels Santai is a great alternative for families on a slightly tighter budget.  

Xanadu Resort Hotel is located on a two-way local road that connects all resorts and golf courses in the Belek area. There is nothing within walking distance other than three renowned golf courses and a few other beachfront properties, but there is a public bus stop right outside the main entrance of the property. Belek, located about a 10-minute drive from the hotel, is home to a few restaurants and shops. The historic city of Side, known for its impressive Hellenistic and Roman ruins and cute seaside cafes, is about a 45-minute drive away. Driving to Antalya and its many historic sites -- including Hadrian’s Gate and the Yivliminare Mosque -- also takes about 45 minutes. The hotel is a 35-minute drive from the airport.

The hotel has 421 room spread over a large main building and 12 two-story structures set in the gardens. All rooms are clean and comfortable, with good beds, spacious closets, and big work desks. The decor style, however, is a tad bland and dated. Big, chocolate-brown pillows with turquoise flowers and minimalist lamps are contemporary touches, but the combination of simple wooden furniture painted a grayish-green hue, beige carpets, and cream-colored walls makes for underwhelming spaces. 

In-room technologies and amenities are up-to-date, though, and include individually controlled air-conditioning, LCD TVs with international channels, safes, and good, free Wi-Fi. Electric kettles are also provided in all rooms, and minibars are restocked daily with free water, beer, candy bars, sparkling water, juices, and sodas. Each room also has a private balcony, and many offer sea views.

Bathrooms are functional, but a bit of a letdown in terms of style. They have shower/tub combos, white-stone counters, and an array of toiletries, including body lotion, hair conditioner, cotton buds, and shower caps. Our room and bathroom were clean and in good shape, but some guests have complained that housekeeping doesn’t clean rooms thoroughly during the stay. 

There is a range of rooms for families, from two-bedroom, one-bathroom units in the Secret Garden area, to 678-square-foot (63-square-meter) Family Suites with two bedrooms, a living room, and two bathrooms. Larger groups can book a Presidential Villa, which are duplex units with three en-suite bedrooms, a kitchen, and a private pool shared with one other Presidential Villa. 

Amenities are extensive and largely family-focused here. The hotel has two main pools, a water park, an indoor pool, and several smaller outdoor ones for kids. The main pool is large and appealing, with a whirlpool area and plenty of loungers. The zero-entry pool is popular with families, but it is also the activity pool and has loud music throughout the day. Towering over the main pool is the castle-shaped water park, complete with three large waterslides for adults. The quietest pool is the one located in the Secret Garden area, with a smaller kiddy pool and a bar. There is also an indoor-outdoor pool for the colder months, with heated water (seasonally only) and a jetted area. 

A large kids’ club is home to a few kiddy pools, an indoor area for art projects, a room with toys, and a nap room with several cribs. The outdoor space has a playground under an awning and several carnival rides that kids can use free of charge. There are also daily activities for children of all ages, including babysitting services and sports and group games for teens. 

Housed in a separate building, the spa has a relaxing, upscale feel, with candles, oil burners, running water sounds, and soft music. All guests get free access to a hammam, sauna, and steam room, and there is a long list of treatments available for a fee, including European and Asian massages, aromatherapy, coffee peelings, and facials. The fitness center has a good selection of cardio and strength-training machines, and there are also two tennis courts, a soccer field, and a putting green area that guests can use for free. 

The property has its own convention center, complete with nine meeting rooms of different sizes, as well as two big ballrooms for larger events. Planning and catering services are available, as is audiovisual equipment. 

Silk Road is the hotel’s main buffet restaurant, and it's open for all three main meals, as well as for late breakfast and midnight snacks. The spread offers tons of traditional Turkish and international options, and there is a large outdoor area with soft lounge music and candles on tables. Breakfast offers a wide array of fare, from salads and pastries, to eggs, sausages, cereal, and meats and cheeses. Coffee, however, was not the tastiest we’ve had, and juices were from a dispenser rather than made with fresh fruits. 

The type of cuisines offered at the a la carte eateries changes from one year to the other, but there were Italian, fish, French, and Asian options during our stay. Kids under 12 are not allowed in some of them, and only the Italian was free when we visited. Free snacks are available at several bars throughout the day as well, and drinks are served 24/7 at the lobby bar.