St.Nicholas Park Hotel

The St Nicholas Park has run-of-the-mill resort offerings, but its stunning views over Oludeniz and the famed Blue Lagoon are standouts. In addition to excellent vantage points, lovely grounds are filled with beautiful bougainvillea, white stone pathways, and several tan three-story structures with wrought-iron balconies. Interiors aren't quite as striking, but an airy restaurant with wood-beam ceiling, and lobby area with lots of marble, framed pieces of famous artwork, and wicker seating are attractive. The play areas and swimming pools with daily activities mean the resort has a boisterous atmosphere that may deter couples seeking a peaceful getaway. Families, however, will likely appreciate the all-inclusive rates and good dose of children’s activities.

The resort sits high on a hill -- nearly 1,000 feet (304 meters) above sea level -- which makes for stunning views of the surrounding area and the Mediterranean Sea. It's a 15-minute walk to Hisaronu village, where restaurants, bars, spas, and retail shops can be found. The steep climb back is largely manageable, but it can be difficult for some. Taxis are readily available for those who opt to not walk back. The hotel also has a large parking lot for travelers with cars.

Oludeniz beach, considered to be the most beautiful in Turkey thanks to its blue-green lagoon and mountainous backdrop, is a 10-minute (free) shuttle bus or taxi ride away. Due to its geography, Oludeniz is a world-ranking spot for paragliding. Oludeniz also has a national park, which protects the area from further development. The town of Fethiye is a 20-minute car ride from the hotel. Fethiye offers pristine beaches, ruins, an amphitheater, and a castle. The closest airport is Dalaman, which is a little over an hour’s drive. 

The 128 rooms at St Nicholas Park have modern furnishings in a neutral-tone palette. Most pieces are glossy white, some which are backlit, though cushiony avocado green sofas add a pop of color. Accent walls papered in a foiled medallion-pattern are an attractive nod to Turkish decor. Standard Rooms are small, and their balconies are tiny, while Family Rooms are larger and have a double bed that can be partitioned from the two single beds. 

All rooms are equipped with two-tone work desks, small flat-screen TVs along the walls, free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges with bottled water, and air-conditioning. Safes are also provided but they require a fee. Bathrooms across the board are small but functional, outfitted with small stall showers, wall-mounted hairdryers, and basic toiletries. Wrought-iron balconies or patios are furnished and offer views of either the pool or sea, and often of the mountains. 

The St Nicholas Park is an all-inclusive, so all meals and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are includes in rates. Though food quality receives mostly positive reviews, past guests have complained of food being repetitive and the list of free alcoholic beverages being quite limited. The all-day restaurant serves Turkish and international fare in a bright and modern space with gleaming floors and large windows. Its Turkish Night, as well as the freshly made Turkish Gozleme pancakes and ice cream served during select times, are a big hit with hotel guests. A poolside snack bar is also available, with a simple menu of salads and fast food such as pizza and burgers. The pool bar is tucked below ground level and lacks much atmosphere. However, there is plenty of outdoor seating by the pool. 

There are plenty of facilities to keep kids and adults busy, particularly the three outdoor pools. The main pool is the largest and offers pretty vistas, plus there are a pool with a waterslide and medium-size pool that hosts daytime activities. The animation team also puts on family-friendly entertainment at night. An underwhelming kids' club is available, as are a game room, tennis court, and sand volleyball court. A small spa offers a Turkish hamman and a variety of treatments. Other conveniences include a full-service beauty salon and a small market for sundries and food. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.