Grand Park Bodrum

Formerly the Yelken Hotel & Spa, this all-inclusive reopened in 2016 as the Grand Park Bodrum, part of the Dutch-owned Corendon Hotels & Resorts chain. The new owners made some needed updates around the property, but even so, the resort doesn't live up to its advertised five-star status. But it does draw families and couples (especially Dutch, Russian, Turkish, and British guests) with a wide array of on-site amenities, a long sandy beach, decent all-inclusive rates, and spacious rooms. Its range of daily activities allows active guests to stay entertained, while its ample lawns with loungers and seating appeal to travelers seeking to unwind and take it easy.

The main hotel building has two gently curving wings, inspired by the design of a sail (the original name, Yelken, means "sail" in Turkish). This inspiration is seen in parts of the interior architecture as well. Although interiors are airy and contemporary, the outdoors are the highlight at the Grand Park Bodrum. Wooden paths flanked by manicured lawns and palm trees give the grounds a polished, serene feel, while spacious decks with awnings and sea views feel inviting. The hotel’s beach area is narrow but long, with dozens of loungers packed together on the sand and on a cute pier that juts out into the sea. It can feel a little overcrowded at times, but the hotel also features spacious decks around its four outdoor pools, offering additional seating for those looking for something a little quieter. 

Grand Park Bodrum is located directly on a long sandy beach just north of Turgutries, in the village of Kadikalesi. The immediate area has few resort options and stands out for its quietness and its terrific views of offshore islands. There are several restaurants and hotels nearby, though the roads here lack shoulders and aren't especially pedestrian-friendly. The ancient city of Myndos can be viewed on Rabbit Island, a 10-minute drive to the north (reaching it involves wading offshore through shallow water); the archaeological importance of this region is part of the reason it is less developed than other parts of the peninsula. 

Many more cafes, shops, and dining options can be found in the center, located a five-minute drive away. The Turgutreis Marina, from where guests can take a ferry to the Greek islands of Kos or Kalymnos, is a 10-minute drive away. Other attractions in town include a Saturday market that's popular with tourists. The city of Bodrum, home to several historic attractions an plenty of dining and drinking options, is around a 30-minute drive away. Bodrum International Airport is about an hour from the hotel. 

Starting at 240 square feet (22 square meters), rooms at the Grand Park Bodrum are spacious and light, with floor-to-ceiling windows, either a French bed or two twin beds, and a small seating area with an armchair. Most have light wood furniture, orange patterned carpets, and blue bedding accents; the overall look is simple and streamlined. Superior Rooms are the largest here, with up to 540 square feet of floor space, and enough space to sleep up to four guests. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen satellite TVs, mini-fridges (stocked with water), and electronic safes. Standard and Superior rooms have central air-conditioning, while Deluxe units have individually controlled split AC units. Most rooms have a balcony with either garden or sea views, but some Standard and Deluxe units lack outdoor spaces. Bathrooms are equipped with hairdryers and a few toiletries (usually just shampoo and shower gel). Wheelchair-accessible rooms are also available. 

Before the hotel reopened, rooms sometimes suffered issues such as a musty smell, wear and tear, and maintenance issues, though the new owners are working hard to freshen things up throughout the property. 

The main draw at the Grand Park Bodrum is its lovely sandy beach, where the hotel has dozens of loungers and umbrellas. It can get busy during peak season, but a wooden pier offers additional seating and a slightly more serene atmosphere for those seeking some peace and quiet. There are also multiple outdoor pools on-site: the main, ocean-view pool with adjacent kiddy pool, a relaxation pool, and a water park with two big waterslides. There is an additional indoor pool at the spa, which also features a sauna, a Turkish bath, massage cabins, and a steam room. Fitness activities and games are held at the main outdoor pool daily, and the gym has an array of cardio and strength-training machines for those looking to get a full workout. The kids’ club features indoor and outdoor spaces as well as activities for children 4 to 12 years old. 

Dining options at the Grand Park Bodrum include an international buffet and an a la carte restaurant serving barbecue and Italian cuisine. The 24-hour food court offers an array of snacks and drinks, and the lobby bar, also open around-the-clock, serves juices, hot and cold drinks, and cocktails. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the property.