Four Seasons at the Bosphorus – a luxury stay in Istanbul
As someone celebrating a big birthday this year ending in 0 (I’m not saying which one), I know how important it is to treat yourself. As a freelance travel writer and well, just me, I always have a project on the go. If I’m not writing an article I’m making a new blouse, reading a book, planning trips for research for my writing, studying Turkish …. phew, I’m exhausted just thinking about it! When I was invited to take a minibreak in the Four Seasons at the Bosphorus in Istanbul, I jumped at the chance.
The History of Four Seasons at the Bosphorus
The Four Seasons Hotel at the Bosphorus consists of three buildings, the central one originally a palace named for an Ottoman dignitary called Atik Pasha. His was just one of many of the Fer’iye Palaces, also known as the Sultan Palaces, a large complex constructed during the Ottoman Empire. The design of this former palace is deceptively simple yet extremely elegant. A symmetrical three-storey façade features plain unadorned windows with round arches while inside, locally sourced cool Bursa Beige marble welcomes you into the lobby and reception areas.
Upstairs long corridors punctuated by historical scenes of Istanbul on the walls accommodate rooms with a view of the Bosphorus on one side, and the street on the other. Intricate engravings complemented by exquisite veneers decorate numerous rooms and hall ceilings, the height of 19th century Ottoman architectural chic.
My Four Seasons at the Bosphorus room
I was treated to a Junior suite at the Four Seasons at the Bosphorus and I loved it. It had a great 1930s vibe and the cutest window seat to sit on and daydream about life. The bed was large and comfortable, and I thought I’d gone to heaven when I saw the walk in wardrobe. It’s a whole room, perfectly laid out for two, complete with gorgeous robes (modelled by me in the photo), perfect to wear when you float down to the spa. There was a seating area and work desk too.
We were supplied with a complimentary étagères filled with mouthwatering lokum, baklava and chocolate. The temptation to try all of them was great and I have to admit I succumbed. There was also a healthy choice of fruit and a tasty cheese selection delivered to the room later on.
Luxurious Carrara marble, imported from Italy caresses you underfoot in the roomy bathroom with its separate shower and bath. The hotel provides premium French and Italian personal care items however you can ask to use locally sourced natural products from Turkish company Pure Project.
You can see more of my accommodation in this video.
Dining at Four Seasons at the Bosphorus
Whether you opt for upmarket dining at Aqua or the more laid back Yali Lounge, both look out over the Bosphorus and with ferries and boats going by at night, all lit up, it was beautifully romantic.
The current Aqua dinner menu serves up dreamy dishes made of octopus, langoustine, calamari or sea bass. The small but well-balanced vegetarian dinner menu includes delicacies such as celeriac carpaccio and risotto artichokes
Over in Yali Lounge you can dine on pizza, grills meats, caviar and shrimps, just to name a few. My husband can attest the lobster tossed spaghetti is heaven.
Despite eating a generous meal the night before, I was looking forward to seeing what was on offer in the glasshouse style breakfast room. We were greeted at the door by a smiling waiter who said, “And you are Lisa Morrow. I know because of your iconic red hair”. It was lovely. I was flattered and embarrassed too, because as all my friends know, I never think of myself as famous!
There’s a great range of foods on offer, pastries, different breads, all the Turkish breakfast specials such as menemen, cilbir, börek with a variety Turkish cheeses and so on but you can also have selections made to order. Eggs whichever way you like, omelettes and pancakes as well as different sides like mushrooms, potatoes and so on. We tucked into rich Eggs Benedict cooked with pork bacon and a plate of fresh fruit. Vegetarians and vegans are also catered for along with guests with specific dietary regimes.
I was keen to see what honey was on offer as I’ve loved this food of the gods since I was four. My favourite is çamlı bal, pine honey, but I didn’t see it with the other types. I happened to mention this in passing to the waiter who was serving us and he brought me some without my asking. It was wonderful to be so well looked after.
Swimming, gym and spa facilities
The hotel fronts on to the Bosphorus and there’s a large outdoor pool with views over the water. It’s typically open from May to October, although the exact dates may vary each year depending on weather conditions. They have a fabulous giant disco ball by the water, prompting me to imagine dancing there until the small hours one night in summer. A girl can dream.
I stayed in winter so swam in the glamorous indoor pool and soaked in the jacuzzi. Gorgeous isn’t it?
As well as the kaftan provided in your room the hotel provides gowns and disposable underwear, perfect if you travel light. The change rooms come equipped with lockers, showers, a steam room and sauna.
There’s a spa offering a variety of treatments such as facials, massage and detox therapy while the health conscious will approve of the spacious well-equipped gym. Personal training sessions are available by appointment.
Special Treats by the Four Seasons at the Bosphorus
The events crew at Four Seasons at the Bosphorus love to curate unique and memorable experiences for guests. They can organise private Bosphorus boat tours, guided food tours, and historic old town explorations, and mark special occasions by arranging themed pillowcases, framed photos and balloons.
Foodies take note. Through the year the hotel holds Ode to Bosphorus nights featuring international chefs flown in for special two night pop-up events. Seats are limited so make sure to book as soon as the dates are announced.
The real heart of the Four Seasons at the Bosphorus
And finally, a big shout out to all the people who make staying at the Four Seasons at the Bosphorus such an intimate and personal experience. At the reception desk, in the breakfast room, the restaurant personnel, the cleaners, the woman who showed us around and even the electrician who directed us to the toilets, they were all wonderful. The Four Seasons at the Bosphorus employs people from countries all over the world, united in their desire to offer a seamless service from start to finish.
If you have a special birthday coming up, want an anniversary splurge, plan to celebrate a new beginning with your besties after a divorce or just for pure indulgence, I think the Four Seasons at the Bosphorus is the perfect choice. Naturally do your own research first but once you’ve made up your mind, here’s where you can book.
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Here are my helpful tips to make the most of your trip.
For FLIGHTS I like to use Kiwi.com.
Don’t pay extra for an E-VISA. Here’s my post on everything to know about getting an evisa before you take off.
However E-SIM are the way to go to stay connected with a local phone number and mobile data on the go. Airalo is easy to use and affordable.
Even if I never claim on it, I always take out TRAVEL INSURANCE. I recommend Visitors Coverage.
If you’re travelling alone, check out this post on useful solo travel tips Turkey for women (and men).
I’m a big advocate of public transport, but know it’s not suitable for everyone all the time. When I need to be picked up from or get to Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport, I use one of these GetYourGuide AIRPORT TRANSFERS.
CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Let me guide you around Kadikoy with my audio walking tour Stepping back through Chalcedon or venture further afield with my bespoke guidebook Istanbul 50 Unsung Places. I know you’ll love visiting the lesser-known sites I’ve included. It’s based on using public transport as much as possible so you won’t be adding too much to your carbon footprint. Then read about what you’ve seen and experienced in my three essay collections and memoir about moving to Istanbul permanently.
Browse the GetYourGuide website or Viator to find even more ways to experience Istanbul and Turkey with food tours, visits to the old city, evening Bosphorus cruises and more!
However you travel, stay safe and have fun! Iyi yolculuklar.
