Assos Hunters Hotel
The meeting point of history, nature and the sea. A corner of paradise; Assos.
You understand it on your first visit to Assos. The oxygen of Mount Ida behind you, the ice-cold water of the Aegean in front of you, and stones from the 7th century in between. This is exactly where that trilogy intersects: The sea, Mount Ida, and the historical site.
This time I was in Kadırga Bay. I stayed at Assos Hunters Hotel. It's a Blue Flag bay, the water is crystal clear. It's already the first stop for those escaping from Istanbul.
If you ask how to plan your days, my route was clear:
- Assos Ancient City, on top of Behramkale. Climb up to the Temple of Athena where Aristotle once taught.
- Assos Ancient Harbor, down below. Walk through the stone streets and take a coffee break.
- Adatepe Village, stone houses among olive trees.
- Yesilyurt Village, at the foot of Mount Ida, cool.
I was going to ask for cafe / restaurant recommendations, the people at the hotel laughed and said "they can find many of the things they are looking for on our menu." They were right.
Where I stayed: Assos Hunters Hotel
Its story started by chance. The hotel was put up for sale, and Ms. Belma and her family became interested. What motivated them the most on this journey was her curiosity for the kitchen, presentation and decoration. They are also very new to hosting guests, since May 16, 2026. From what I saw, they were quite experienced, like longtime hoteliers.
Operator: Belma Akıncı Bilgic
Location: The hotel is in Kadırga Bay and has a beach.
Pet-friendly: Unfortunately, they are not suitable.
Spa: There is a Jacuzzi, Steam Room, Sauna and Massage room.
Special for Kucuk Oteller followers: They offer a 10 percent discount throughout 2026.
Architecturally, they tried a modern interpretation with an Alacati concept. In some rooms, they have especially preserved the old stone structure and the trees in the garden.
What did I like most here? Most of all, the "sea and greenery being together". Visitors describe the hotel as a "small paradise", saying they leave rested and will come again. It didn't seem exaggerated, it really is quiet.
Their relationship with nature is also simple: They try to buy organic products from local producers. A fair is also set up in the region at the end of May every year, don't miss it if you happen to be there.
My favorite detail inside the hotel: They made a painting depicting the ancient Troy period, and placed busts of Helen and Paris next to it. You stand behind it and have your photo taken, and suddenly you become part of the line "Helen's face launched a thousand ships." Homer would probably laugh if he heard. The idea of being a business where you can collect memories and take photos in every corner comes from this.
The kitchen part: The open buffet breakfast in the morning is really rich. Jams, tomato paste, olives, olive oil are all local and organic.
The lunch and dinner menu on the beach is just as full. 30 kinds of mezes come out daily, appetizers, meatballs, fish, chicken, meat varieties, snacks, the list goes on.
Why stay here? Because in Assos, in the sea-history-nature triangle, there are few places where you can walk down to the ancient harbor, get the Mount Ida air in the morning and swim in the Blue Flag Kadirga in the afternoon. Hunters is right at that junction, 24 rooms, quiet, unpretentious boutique. If you are looking for an escape from Istanbul, the distance also makes sense.
I left rested. I will definitely come again.