Avalon is high, very high, above the eye-wateringly beautiful beach of Kabak Bay. From its improbably turquoise waters, backed by a strip of white sand and pebbles, the pine-clad Taurus Mountains push steeply up to 1000m and more: there are few places on the Med as narcotically seductive as this. And this charming place to stay matches the setting.
Staggered amongst pine, olive and fruit trees around a sea-facing infinity pool, Avalon’s 11 rooms take the form of wooden bungalows, all with small private gardens or decks and a slice of that stunning view. The ‘less is more’ approach to their design and décor feels perfect in a context of such great natural beauty, whilst the ‘think locally and ethically’ mission statement of the British owners sets the bar for small hotels in Turkey. The food is fresh, home-made and superb, the welcome genuine, and the place every bit as enchanting as the island of Arthurian legend after which it’s named.
Highs
- It’s worth staying for the views alone
- The caring approach of Val and Frank and their excellent team make Avalon even more special – and it's great value, too
- A footpath down to one of Turkey’s most beautiful beaches
- Food so good that you’ll be forgiven for eating all meals in house (choose between B&B or half-board rates)
- Each bungalow feels secluded, whilst the restaurant and pool make for easy socialising with other guests
Lows
- It's a little remote (30 minutes' drive from the nearest village, Oludeniz), but that's the joy of it
- It takes about 20 minutes to negotiate the rough path down to the beach, and a lot of huff and puff to get back up
- Not much in the way of on-site entertainment, but simply being here is enough to fill your days
Best time to go
Avalon is open from April to late October. May and June are ideal, as they’re a little cooler than July and August, when temperatures often soar into the 40s. September and October are also lovely, with chillier evenings but a warmer sea.
Our top tips
Make sure you pack a snorkel and flippers, or pick some up on your way through the town of Fethiye as you drive from the airport (the hotel has a few snorkel masks for guests use). And take along a star chart: the night skies here are simply unbelievable.
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 8 independent reviews from i-escape guests
If you are looking for somewhere to completely switch off and get some much needed rest and relaxation, then Avalon in Kabak Bay is the place for you. Surrounded by beautiful pine trees, the views are simply stunning. Dinner is pre-booked with so much choice, there is always something for everyone. Delicious Turkish cuisine is freshly cooked every night and Burak, Emel and the team could not have been more friendly. The tranquility around the pool must be experienced to be believed; you really are at one with nature. The walk down to the beach does take about 20 minutes but is worth it. Just remember to give yourself plenty of time to slowly walk back up! Frank and Val have created a very special place; check it out. You won’t want to go anywhere else.
I very rarely leave reviews but Avalon is a really, REALLY special place. The rooms are slightly tired but beautiful, spotlessly clean (the sheets and towels smelled amazing!), and very comfortable. I was half board and the food was delicious and authentic with plenty of choice (the breakfast in particular is amazing). The staff were absolutely outstanding, particularly Emre and the lovely man with the tattoos (sorry I can’t remember his name). I was travelling alone and they were so kind without being intrusive, I’m so grateful to them, I really had a proper rest. The view just has to be seen to be believed including at night with clear moon and stars. Yes it’s a trek back up from the beach but not too bad and worth a visit in my opinion if you fancy venturing further afield. Do make sure you book your airport transfers in advance and leave plenty of time. The hotel pool is gorgeous and to be honest if you want a relaxing stay with lovely food and staff you don’t really need to leave. Thank you so much to everyone at Avalon, I will definitely be back.
Avalon in Kabak bay was a lovely, relaxing experience. It’s actually about one hour forty minutes from Dalaman airport - so people need to be prepared for that. The bungalows are nice and clean but, in my opinion,a little ‘tired’ and require a thorough refresh/update throughout. One to keep an eye on - noticed that longer staying guests (including me) seemed to be there for the relaxing atmosphere and beautiful slow, quiet pace. The beach is not tranquil at all - guests need to have their expectations managed on that one. It’s a little bit scruffy and takes about 20 minutes to get down to. Lots of music being enjoyed down there. But it’s a beautiful spot - we went 4 times and really enjoyed it. The team at Avalon - Emel, Borak, Anil were amazing, so professional and warm and offered to support guests however they could. The service was immaculate. Views from our bungalow were stunning and exactly as advertised. The infinity pool is beautiful and peaceful. The food was delicious and freshly cooked for us every night - lots of fresh local produce and we were delighted to experience Turkish flavours. Avalon is a very special place that needs to be preserved for the right demographic of guests who appreciate what makes it special.
Incredible venue with the kindest team; we were made to feel very welcome and everyday enjoyed a wonderful view and new adventures. If you like a destination away from the crowds, no major frills, and somewhere surrounded by nature, then Avalon can’t fail to impress!
Really good value for money, we had a wonderful time. The manager, Burak, and his team, waited on us hand and foot. The boat trip to 'Cold Water Bay' and 'Paradise Bay' which they booked departing from Kabak Bay was exquisite - we almost had the beach to ourselves. The walk down and up from the hotel to Kabak Bay is quite steep, so take it slowly when the sun is high. Very worth it though, and the Sea Valley restaurant is a good place to have a meal.
Whilst you can just do nothing at the hotel, hiring a car does mean you can get out and do some sighseeing, and visit nearby Ölüdeniz, famed for its long golden beach, and paragliding for the adventurous. That said the roads, and driving standards, are not up to European levels; lots of tight hairpins once off the main D400 highway from the airport.
A beautiful situation with breathtaking views over the sea and mountains beyond. Low key, informal, friendly. Stunning pool. Good food. Fair prices. The perfect place for a quiet getaway to rest and recharge.
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape
More Feedback