Slow Living Hotels

We get so caught up in the pace of daily life that we often don't even realize how tired we are. Rushing to work in the morning, rushing home in the evening, traffic, crowds, hustle and bustle—time slips through our fingers. Yet sometimes all we want is to slow down a little, take a breath, and make time for ourselves. This is where something called “slow living” comes into play. This concept also manifests itself during vacations. Slow living hotels, or slow living hotels as they are more commonly known, are the answer to this quest. They are not flashy but peaceful, not crowded but intimate, not fast but meaningful. They offer a quiet and serene environment with few rooms, surrounded by nature. You sit down to meals featuring local flavors, wake up to the sound of birds in the morning, and gaze at the sky in the evening, truly feeling rested. It's hard to imagine a better way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Slow Living Hotels

1. Yonca Lodge Hotel +12, Yanıklar Village
2. Cabras Kaz Mountains
3. Etenna Beach Bungalow
4. Hotel Villa Mahal, +12
5. Kaya Guest House
6. Olympos Mountain Lodge
7. Saklı Göl Evleri Glamping Resort
8. The Lake House, +12
9. Taşkonaklar Hotel
10. Argos In Cappadocia Hotel, +12

Yonca Lodge Hotel +12, Yanıklar Village

This place always reminds us of the scents of the sea and nature. Whenever a wave of melancholy hits us, we hop in the car and head to Fethiye’s Yanıklar Village, to Yonca Lodge, a spot that has held a special place in our hearts for years. Settling into our favorite superior room, watching the waves of the sea, and letting ourselves drift into other journeys full of poetry and harmony has almost become a ritual. Yonca Lodge is more than just a hotel—it feels like a universe where time moves a little slower, drawing you in. Ducks floating in the calm river, birds gliding through the air, fruit trees of every kind in the garden, ships wandering freely on the horizon, cheerful sounds from the depths, the aroma of fresh coffee, and Daniela’s heartfelt hospitality… All of these make us feel those indescribable emotions we’ve carried for years. Even cocktails at the bar follow a “zero waste” principle, and the restaurant menu carefully prepares vegan and vegetarian options. Even the cleaning products are chosen to avoid harming the environment, proving that ecological sustainability here is not a marketing slogan but a part of its very existence. Stepping out of our room in the morning and taking a few steps toward the beach, the breakfast table always amazes us. From fig jam to freshly baked bread, from tomatoes and olives picked from the garden to village eggs everything is so natural and meticulously prepared that the word “exotic” feels like the most fitting description for this table.

Cabras Kazdağları

Heading toward the Kazdağları Mountains, you can feel time flowing slowly. Cabras Kazdağları is a place that truly evokes this sensation. Life moves at a gentle pace here, and immense peace fits into every corner you must experience it to understand. Visiting here feels like taking an authentic village vacation, yet you’re hosted with comfort in every detail. Every stone house offers a view of the sunset, and the aromatic scents of the Kazdağları surround you. Walking through the gardens, the seasonal fruits and flowers wrap you in their fragrance, and birdsong accompanies your mornings. This is a place where small moments turn into lasting memories, letting you feel the rhythm of time and nature slowly. Comfort is not overlooked; the rooms carry the warmth of the stone houses, while modern needs are fully met. Every moment, whether at the open pool, terrace, or quiet garden, is paired with the aroma of coffee, freshly baked bread, and local flavors. Guests here do more than just vacation they listen to themselves and discover the tranquility created by little details. Time spent here brings you closer to life and to yourself with every step and every breath.

Dirik Surf Club Hotel

Dirik Surf & Beach Club is located in a quiet, intimate cove on the Datça coast, perfectly blending with nature. Its simple yet refined design, combined with the warmth of stone houses and the greenery of the garden, makes it more than a hotel it feels like a sanctuary. Time flows slowly here, and every moment feels rich and fulfilling. For lunch, you can try Pablo Burger indoors. It’s remarkable how much character and care can fit into a single burger. Another option is Bizim Ev Datça, where local flavors are presented with remarkable expertise in a simple and sincere setting. In the evenings, Yakamengen takes you to a hidden garden, accompanied by the scent of herbs, birdsong, and a gentle breeze. For a slightly more elegant evening, Dirik Surf’s own restaurant offers a wonderful sunset dining experience. Watching the sunset in Datça wipes away the day’s rush, bringing to mind Ursula K. Le Guin’s words: “Home is not a place. It is a feeling.” Dirik Surf perfectly conveys this feeling making you feel at home, but with breakfasts far more delightful than any home could offer. Starting your day with fresh coffee and local delicacies, strolling in the garden, and slowing down against the sunset transforms the trip from a simple getaway into a soulful, restorative experience.

Etenna Beach Bungalow

Etenna Beach Bungalows feels more like a friend’s summer house than a hotel, standing out with its warmth. Everyone in the garden greets you with a smile, and at breakfast, everyone shares the same feeling—peace. Here, in the heart of nature and on the shore, you find yourself in a completely different world. With its beachfront location, waking up under the shade of orange trees with birdsong and stepping barefoot on the sand reminds you to slow down. It’s a place where you can learn to slow down for the first time. Ideal for those who want quiet, to wake up with birdsong away from crowds, or to get lost in a book on a sunbed for hours. Families have safe spaces for children to play freely, and pets are welcome too. Special arrangements have even been made for guests with disabilities. Exploring the area is a joy take a walk to Yanartaş and watch the fire rising from the heart of nature. Starting the day with a swim at sunrise leaves you more refreshed than the best coffee. A boat trip to undiscovered coves lets you witness life’s slow, beautiful rhythm. Meditating on the beach, even if you’ve never tried before, becomes effortless with the sound of the sea accompanying you.

Hotel Villa Mahal, +12

Perched above Kalkan Bay, Hotel Villa Mahal exudes an exotic atmosphere that challenges the sea itself. Its vast grounds, adorned with olive, lemon, and fig trees, combined with carefully curated gardens and endemic Mediterranean plants, invite you into a completely different world. Each room is designed to be more refined and seamless than the last. The décor reflects the subtleties and elegance of life, offering simplicity where you can be fully yourself. Beachfront platforms provide spacious private areas under the shade of olive trees, and massages accompanied by the sound of waves offer a special opportunity to relax both body and soul. In the evenings, the beach area transforms into an elegant restaurant. Dinner is served above the sea, illuminated in a way that evokes an aquarium. Breakfasts are prepared on the terrace with a bird’s-eye view. Watching sea turtles swim in the crystal-clear waters while starting your day with fresh Mediterranean flavors completes the magic of the experience. One of the hotel’s unique experiences is sailing tours aboard the Mahal yacht. Exclusive to guests, these day or overnight trips allow you to explore the untouched turquoise coves around Kalkan and Kaş. Every moment spent here blends nature and sea, making Hotel Villa Mahal not just a place to stay but a special retreat where the soul is nourished and life’s pleasures can be savored.

Kaya Guest House

Hidden in the stone streets of Old Datça, under the shade of flowering doors, Kaya Guest House masterfully combines minimalism with warmth. It’s not flashy, but peaceful dusty and quiet like life itself, yet heartwarming. If you’re looking for a place that’s “simple yet clean, quiet yet intimate,” this is exactly it. Morning breakfasts set you up for the day, and they are more than sufficient. For lunch or dinner, Alfheim Brasserie is a great choice—the artichoke risotto, in particular, lingers in the memory. If you want some music and conversation in the evening, JackieO in Old Datça provides a calm, enjoyable option. Kaya Guest House is more than a place to stay; it’s a stop where you can lose yourself in the quiet stone streets of Old Datça, reflect, and feel true tranquility. Every moment spent here allows you to escape the city’s chaos and enjoy simple but valuable experiences—a corner dominated by silence and peace.

 
Olympos Mountain Lodge

Surrounded by trails adorned with pine, juniper, and cedar trees, and accompanied by the gentle scent of floating flowers, Olympos Mountain Lodge offers an unforgettable experience. The breathtaking Mediterranean views from the hilltop make this more than a hotel it’s a place where you fully connect with nature. Here, you step away from the chaos of city life into a world where time slows down. Spending a day here makes you realize how little you truly need. It’s a paradise for nature lovers; the pristine air and serene atmosphere of Beycik, combined with its elevation of 800 meters, allow you to gaze over both the sea and mountains, bringing unmatched peace. Every step immerses you in nature birdsong, gentle breezes, and the shade of surrounding trees leave you fully rested. At sunset, as you watch the Mediterranean from above, time seems to disappear; you simply breathe and savor the moment. With minimalist luxury and nature-inspired design, Olympos Mountain Lodge is the perfect escape for anyone looking to rest their soul and experience life’s slower rhythm. Every moment here is spent in nature, surrounded by peace and serenity.

Saklı Göl Evleri Glamping Resort

For those who love nature but don’t want to compromise on comfort, Saklı Göl Evleri is perfect. True to its name, the Hidden Lake impresses with its silence and elegance, making you think, “I needed to be here.” Starting the day with a breakfast buffet is a special pleasure; every morning I wonder if I should leave some behind, yet I always finish it all a small charm of the place. For dinner, try the resort’s specially marinated beef tenderloin it’s delicious. The surroundings of Saklı Göl offer rich opportunities for exploration. At the Sagalassos Ancient City, you can follow the traces of Rome and hear the stories told by the stones. You can hike Yazılı Canyon or use the quiet of nature to listen to yourself. Kremna Ancient City conveys the silence of the past, leaving a gentle calm in your soul. Every moment here is simultaneously grounding and liberating. Walking along the lake, watching the water’s reflection, listening to the birds singing under the trees, and seeing the evening sun paint the water with colors all of this brings deep tranquility and a sense that time has slowed.

 
The Lake House, +12

The Lake House perfectly captures the serene spirit of İznik, combining modern comfort with nature. With a +12 concept, it welcomes only adults, making it ideal for those seeking a calm lakeside retreat. Waking up to the soft view of Lake İznik is truly soul-soothing. Breakfasts are not just hearty they are a feast. Each plate, carefully prepared by the chef, leaves a lasting impression both in taste and presentation. Staying here also allows guests to explore the unique charm of İznik. A morning walk along the lake, watching sunlight dance on the water, is a wonderful way to start the day. History enthusiasts will appreciate İznik Castle; wandering through the stone walls feels like stepping back in time. For dining, Rahmi Baba’s famous stuffed fish from the lake is a must-try the freshest fish cooked to perfection, a highlight of İznik’s culinary offerings. The hotel is more than just a place to stay; it combines the serenity of the lake, the spirit of a city steeped in history, and the tranquility of the Aegean. Every moment here offers a chance to slow life down, even if only a little.

 
Taşkonaklar Hotel

Situated in the heart of Cappadocia, facing the breathtaking view of Uçhisar, Taşkonaklar Hotel feels like a place where past and present meet in a single courtyard. Waking in the coolness of stone rooms and seeing the view through the window, you pause for a moment wondering if it’s a dream or another layer of time. The hotel’s charm lies in its experiences. You can start your morning with a sunrise breakfast in the valley or enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner in a private cave. The décor fully reflects the spirit of Cappadocia; the natural texture of stone combined with modern comfort makes every moment unique. Enhancing your stay with local experiences is a must. Spend a day exploring Cappadocia’s underground cities and witness millennia of history. Dedicate another day to wine tasting in the region’s famous vineyards; Cappadocia doesn’t just grow grapes it infuses them with its soul. Every sip carries the essence of the land, sun, and stone.

Argos In Cappadocia Hotel, +12

In the magical atmosphere of Cappadocia, Argos in Cappadocia welcomes guests with stunning views of Pigeon Valley. The hotel incorporates restored remnants of a centuries-old monastery, caves, and underground tunnels, allowing guests to embark on an unforgettable journey through history. Every corner blends history and nature, from the chapel dating back to the 1300s to stone houses and underground passages waiting to be explored. It’s one of the rare hotels offering a calm and private experience. Each room has a unique design; many feature private terraces, gardens, or courtyards. The hotel is recognized among the world’s best wine hotels, with wines from its own vineyards ready to be savored in millennia-old underground cellars. The gastronomy experience is as impressive as the view: at Seki Restaurant, you can discover Cappadocia’s flavors with herb-aged beef tenderloin, pumpkin dessert with walnut and molasses tahini mousse, and cherry-tahini sorbet.