TLT BOOK 2 - FLIP BOOK _OP 3_April 18 (1)

50 BEST HOTELS & RESORTS 2016



TRTAHVEELLULXER

collection

5 0 B e s t H o t e l s & R e s o R t s 2 0 16



“Once a year, go someplace you’ve never
been before.” D a l a i L a m a





Jumeirah Vittaveli, Maldives

Publisher’s welcome

Welcome to the second edition of The Lux Traveller Collection. The 2015 book was a wonderful success and for that
we would like to thank you, our readers. In search of true luxury we have visited hundreds of stunning properties this
year and here we present our top 50. This year’s collection is a mix of unique Australian and opulent Arabian hotels,
European classics, luxurious Asian resorts and unforgettable Maldivian retreats.
All of the featured hotels have been reviewed by our team and offer guests a combination of the best service,
outstanding accommodation, award-winning restaurants and unique experiences that create everlasting memories.
My personal discovery in 2015 was Switzerland. Towns like Zurich and Lugano have so much to offer the discerning
traveller - romantic hotels in spectacular locations, exquisite dining experiences, fine wines, true European glamour,
warm hospitality and exceptionally picturesque countryside.
As for Australia, our beautiful country never stops surprising me with its natural beauty and it is so pleasing to see
exceptional hotels opening in some of the most stunning locations. My personal favourite this year was Orpheus
Island, a little piece of heaven between Cairns and Townsville, reachable only by helicopter. Combine your visit to
Orpheus with a stay at Niramaya Port Douglas or Alamanda Palm Cove and you’ll have a wonderful taste of Tropical
North Queensland.
For those who love Asian holidays we have a few of the best resorts in Bali and Thailand for you to choose from.
Some are located by the sea and some in the mountains, but all are lavishly lux.
2016 is a very special year for The Lux Traveller as we have launched personalised VIP tours to different parts of
the world. Explore ‘The Road Of The Lakes’ in Europe, ‘Feel Like Royalty in Dubai’, play golf in style in Thailand or
discover the ultimate romance in Bali with us.
Enjoy the book, I hope it brings you a lot of joy and inspiration. We will be back with more suggestions for you in
the near future.

m arina Nobl e

P U BLI SH ER

A US TRALIA & S ou t h P ACIFIC

Australia, New Zealand and Fiji

The Darling, Sydney, Australia



JAMALA LODGE, CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA

Don’t be surprised if a very large brown bear plonks The chic bungalows are spacious with large FACILITIES
herself close by just as you hop into the stone bath bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows – ideal for
at Canberra’s exotic Jamala Wildlife Lodge. viewing those animals – and canopied beds. • Restaurant
As you sink under the warm bubbles, the bear takes Carved African bowls and ornaments and animal • The Cave
a stretch, has a sniff around, then settles down on print throws add to the African-themed decor. • Private zoo tours
the straw and nods off. Guests enjoy a delicious African-inspired three- • Unique animal encounters
The action takes place in five luxurious bungalows course dinner in The Cave, where nearby residents, • Animal serenades at night
where only centimetres of glass separate guests two white lions and hyenas, venture from their dens • Afternoon tea, dinner and
from their favourite animals. to take a look - through the glass of course. Private breakfast is inclusive
Lions, cheetahs, tigers and cute as pie Malayan zoo tours and breakfast are included.
Sun Bears star in the other four bungalows that Located at Canberra’s National Zoo and Aquarium, 18 rooms
front enclosures at Canberra’s National Zoo and owners Richard and Maureen aim to share the
Aquarium. wonders of the animal kingdom with the public. Jamala Lodge
Be prepared for many magical moments at this Funds from Jamala stays are used to support National Zoo & Aquarium
unique property that offers three five-star breeding programs and the continual expansion of 999 Lady Denman Drive
accommodation hubs where guests experience up the open range section of the zoo. Weston Creek, Canberra
close and personal encounters with some of the Don’t turn on the television here, the real life Australia
world’s most dangerous and endangered animals. shenanigans of animals outside your window +61 (02) 6287 8444
There are six giraffe tree houses and Ushaka Lodge provides much better entertainment. jamalawildlifelodge.com.au
with seven luxurious rooms inside the main lodge, Guests fall asleep serenaded by the animal zoo
which boasts a shark tank and a private pool choir with an occasional roar from the lions to let
and spa. you know who is boss.

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SAFFIRE freycinet, tasmania, AUSTRALIA

Saffire Freycinet is more than a place to stay; it is The food here has guests running out of FACILITIES
an experience that combines the wonders of nature superlatives, with Executive Chef Hugh Whitehouse
with award-winning design and incredible service. treating diners to his inspiring ‘farm to plate’ cuisine. • Saffire Spa
This intimate property is located on the east coast of Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all divine creations • Restaurant and lounge
Tasmania, about two hours’ drive from Launceston and are included in the room rate. The wine list is • Guided walks
and only a touch more from Hobart. When you arrive equally impressive featuring over 40 complimentary • Leisure activities
time truly stands still and the worries of everyday life labels and another 200 premium wines for guests to • Optional boat cruises in
will melt away with every breath of the fresh, sea air. choose from. Freycinet National Park
There are only 20 villas, comprising Luxury Suites, Activities at Saffire range from guided walks to
Signature Suites and Private Pavilions. The suites spectacular Wineglass Bay, to wine and dine 20 suites and pavilions
offer a combined bedroom/living area, large marble adventures, a visit to an oyster farm or the
bathroom with heated floors and truly mesmerising Tasmanian Devil sanctuary, as well as kayaking and Saffire Freycinet
panoramas from all windows. The Pavilions offer fishing. Or you can just relax and take in the beauty 2352 Coles Bay Road
the highest standard of luxury accommodation of your surrounds, read a book in your suite or sip Coles Bay, Tasmania
and are a little more spacious. Each features a on a hot chocolate at your leisure by the fireplace in Australia
separate bedroom and living room, a plunge pool the lounge. +61 (03) 6256 7888
in the private courtyard as well as a full kitchen, No visit to Saffire is complete without a treatment saffire-freycinet.com.au
allowing you to choose to enjoy dinner-in-suite with in the spa, with all guests receiving a spa credit to
the chef. All of the villas have incredible views over spend. The highly skilled therapists and masseurs
the Freycinet Peninsula with the jagged peaks of the are all first class, and will prepare each guest a
Hazards mountain range looming over the turquoise personal program of therapies. Don’t miss out;
waters of Oyster Bay. book your treatments before you go.

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Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort fiji

A warm welcome of mellifluous Fijian songs and a sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, FACILITIES
fresh tropical drink set the tone for a relaxing but deep-sea fishing, tennis, private picnics on your
indulgent stay at the award-winning Jean-Michel own deserted island, rainforest and waterfall • Four pools
Cousteau Resort Fiji. trek, Savusavu farmers’ market, village and local • Private island
There are 25 spacious thatched one- and two- school visits . • Spa
bedroom bures, most overlooking the tranquil At the beachside day spa, Fijian specialists offer • Restaurant
waters of Savusavu Bay on Vanua Levu Island. Lux a range of healing and relaxation treatments using • Bar
Travellers will want to stay in one of the resort’s beautiful pure virgin coconut oil spa products • Dive centre
three split-level Point Reef Bures, the Honeymoon created by a local women’s co-operative. • Bula Kids Club
Reef Point Bure or, for the ultimate indulgence, The The resort’s Fijian-Chinese chef Raymond Lee • Nanny service
Villa. The lavish private bure offers massive living creates culinary masterpieces with produce grown • Activities
spaces, an expansive bedroom with a sunken in the resort’s own organic garden. Fresh fish
bathroom and Jacuzzi, a walled garden, private is also a specialty, although the resort does not 25 bures and villas
infinity pool and daybed pavilion. serve reef fish as part of its sustainability policy.
The resort is modelled on an authentic Fijian village Romantic dinners can be arranged on one of Jean-Michel Cousteau
and is surrounded by a marine sanctuary, pristine the ocean terraces or at the end of the pier. Resort Fiji
coral reefs and secluded beaches. Lux guests of all Families are not forgotten. All children under the Lesiaceva Point
ages enjoy relaxation plus an interactive experience age of six have a dedicated nanny from 9am to 9pm Savusavu, Fiji
with nature and authentic culture. As well as a while children up to the age of 13 are paired with a +61 (3) 9815 0379
variety of world-class dive sites, the resort boasts buddy (with a ratio of one buddy for a maximum fijiresort.com
15 snorkelling sites with a resident marine biologist of five children). Kids also have free access to the
leading daily expeditions. Other activities include Bula Club and their own pools with waterslides.

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A S IA

Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand

DoublePool Villas By Banyan Tree, Thailand



The Racha, koh racha yai island

The Racha is an island resort that is pretty close The Racha’s beach is one of the most beautiful in FACILITIES
to heaven on earth. Striving to be recognised all of Thailand. The crystal-clear turquoise water is
as a leader in responsible and environmentally calm enough for younger kids and there are plenty • Three swimming pools
sustainable tourism, the resort is not only plush and of snorkelling and dive sites straight off the beach. • Anumba Spa
picturesque but also wonderfully remote. Guests There is a fully-equipped PADI 5-Star Dive Centre • Fitness centre
depart from a private air-conditioned lounge at offering a variety of dive trips and courses, and a • Yoga
Phuket’s Chalong Pier for the 30-minute boat ride. purpose-built instruction pool for beginners. • Flood-lit tennis and basket
The all-villa resort, located on Koh Racha Yai There are three pools at the resort including one ball courts
island south of Phuket, offers a choice of stunning right on the beach with a great vibe, funky tunes • Three restaurants and two
accommodation from simple yet sumptuous one- playing outside and under the water, and hardly bars
bedroom villas with private terraces and outdoor anyone in sight. • PADI dive centre
showers through to luxurious two-bedroom pool The massive Anumba Spa offers four private • Cooking lessons
villas. The large Grand Pool Suites are the Lux Thai style massage pavilions, a day spa and four • Speed boat transfers
Traveller’s pick. Each offers two spacious bedrooms, indulgent VIP couples’ suites with their own terrazzo
luxurious ensuite bathrooms and a massive plunge pool, steam and shower room, and outdoor 85 eco-conscious luxury
terrace with daybeds overlooking the Andaman rain shower. There is also a modern fitness centre, villas
Sea, a Jacuzzi, plus a stunning infinity edge pool tennis courts and daily yoga classes.
with underwater music and swim-up access to the The resort has three restaurants and two bars. The The Racha
master bathroom. For the ultimate indulgence book seaside Sunset Beach restaurant offers sublime Koh Racha Yai Island
The Lighthouse, a truly unique luxury five-storey, fresh barbecued seafood and gourmet Thai Phuket, Thailand
two-bedroom villa with a private pool, terrace, sun dishes while poolside fine diner Fire Grill opts for +66 (76) 355 455
deck and incredible 360-degree views. Mediterranean flavours. theracha.com

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DoublePool Villas, Phuket

With award-winning architecture encircling a restaurants, guided by the considerable talents FACILITIES
tranquil saltwater lagoon and with the scent of of Executive chef Alfonso de la Dehesa, who
frangipani in the air, the opulent DoublePool has honed his skills at multiple Michelin-starred • Two pools
Villas by Banyan Tree is a tropical fairytale come to restaurants including El Bulli. • Three tennis courts
life. Set within the Laguna Phuket resort complex, Banyan Tree’s signature restaurant, Saffron, offers • Five restaurants & two bars
a semi-private enclave of several luxurious resorts authentic Thai cuisine, Tre combines Vietnamese • 24-hour room service
in Bangtao Beach on the west coast of Phuket, flavours with French flair and Tamarind offers • Thai cooking classes
the luxurious villas are a haven for couples and authentic Japanese fare prepared by a Master • Banyan Tree Phuket Spa
families. Shiraishi. We recommend indulging in a “Dinner • Fitness pavillion
For those looking for the ultimate in exclusive of the Senses”, a private romantic dinner by • Golf course
luxury, DoublePool Villas by Banyan Tree offer a candlelight on a floating restaurant for two in the • Concierge
magnificent secret hideaway cocooned by the centre of the resort’s lagoon, or the “Promise of • Complimentary WiFi
Andaman Sea. The spacious 1,300-square-metre Love” dinner. Banyan Tree Spa Phuket pioneered
villas provide a private enclave with a 24-hour Villa the tropical garden spa concept with its Asian 25 villas
Host on call, lavish living spaces, a private wading therapies and holistic focus with treatments and
pool surrounding a full-length glass windowed massages in air-conditioned or open-air Spa DoublePool Villas
master bedroom as well as a 15-metre private pool Pavilions. A meditation and yoga area adds to the By Banyan Tree
with outdoor Jacuzzi, an al fresco dining patio, sense of sanctuary and relaxation. 33, 33/27 Moo, 4 Srisoonthorn
personal steam room and a totally secluded lush Active travellers will enjoy the resort’s tennis Road Cherngtalay, Amphur
tropical garden with sun lounges to soak up the courts, fitness centre, complimentary bicycles and Talang Thailand
serene views. the newly revamped 18-hole Laguna Phuket golf +66 (76) 372 400
Gourmands will love the Resort’s selection of five course, with its pretty lagoon views. banyantree.com

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EUROPE

Italy

The Gritti Palace, Venice - a Luxury Collection Hotel



GRAND HOTEL TREMEZZO, LAKE COMO

Grand Hotel Tremezzo, a spectacular Art Nouveau Grand Hotel Tremezzo offers a choice of superb FACILITIES
property beside historic Villa Carlotta, continues to dining venues, with the highlight being La Terrazza,
attract discerning travellers more than 100 years a candle-lit terrace. The menu is designed by the • Butler service for all guest
after it opened on the shores of picturesque Lake maestro of Italian cuisine, Gualtiero Marchesi, who suites
Como. Elegant interiors, sun soaked terraces and along with the hotel’s executive chef Osvaldo • Concierge
flower-filled gardens make it a haven for A-list Presazzi, creates delicious regional dishes. • Three swimming pools
celebrities. The palatial Grand Hotel Tremezzo For a more casual meal, guests may enjoy • A private beach
offers spectacular views over the lake to the town L’Escale Fondues and Wine Bar, T Beach or • Five restaurants and bars
of Bellagio. The newly added Rooftop Suites have T Pizza. For an experience that is truly memorable, • T Spa
heated outdoor Jacuzzis, their own terraces and the hotel will arrange a delightful dinner for two in a • Tennis court
butler service. There are four Historic Suites as well romantic setting. • Water limousine
– Carlotta, Aurelia, Maria and Greta – all impeccably The Grand Hotel Tremezzo has a choice of
furnished with majestic views. Each is different in leisure facilities encompassing expansive gardens, 90 rooms and suites
style, with the Suite Aurelia featuring an antique a tennis court and three lovely pools, including the
collection, while the Suite Maria - the honeymoon WOW – Water on the Water – pool floating on the Grand Hotel Tremezzo
suite, is all about refinement and style. The Suite lake just off the private beach. There is also Via Regina, 8 - 22016
Greta, named after Greta Garbo, features a wood- a beautifully restored 1960s Venetian motor Tremezzina
panelled foyer and drawing room, a bathroom launch for excursions to charming villages and Lago di Como, Italy
decorated with fine Italian marble and a magnificent villas close by. +39 0344 42491
terrace overlooking the lake. There are another two The spa experience is exceptional with the T Spa, grandhoteltremezzo.com
prestigious Suites on the property – the Garden featuring exclusive treatments by ESPA, now
Suite and the Suite Emilia. located in the 18th century Villa Emilia next door.

105



The St. Regis Rome, Italy

Located alongside the Piazza della Repubblica large bathroom and a living room with a fireplace as FACILITIES
and the Via Veneto and just ten minutes’ walk from well as the bespoke and personalised St. Regis
The Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and the designer Butler Service. • Kami Spa
boutiques of the Via Condotti, The grand St. Regis After a day of exploring some of the sights of Rome, • Fitness centre
Rome offers guests a winning combination of treat yourself to a St. Regis signature massage or • Three restaurants
history, opulence, location and an abundance one of the many indulgent treatments at the hotel’s • St. Regis Family Traditions
of charm. luxurious Kami Spa. There’s also a fitness centre kids program
Home to the majestic symbol of La Belle Époque – offering the latest equipment and personal training • St Regis Butler service
The Ritz Ballroom, the hotel is a living museum of upon request. • Concierge service
marble busts, glittering Murano glass chandeliers, Discover the flavours of Mediterranean cuisine, • Bentley limousine service
fine art and antiquities. washed down with a splash of Krug, at the hotel’s
The renowned hotel has played host to monarchs, opulent Restaurant Vivendo…il Mediterraneo. The 161 guest rooms and suites
heads of state and celebrities including Richard elegantly appointed and intimate space is decorated
Burton and Elizabeth Taylor in its 138 guestrooms in a style recalling the 1930s and ‘40s with the finest The St. Regis Rome
and 23 unique suites, each exquisitely appointed silks and exclusive contemporary art. The Grand Via Vittorio Emanuele
in a combination of Empire, Regency and Louis XV Hall hosts the nightly champagne sabering ritual, a Orlando, 3, Roma, Italy
styles. St. Regis experience that is not to be missed. +39 (06) 47091
The Lux Traveller especially likes the magnificent After dinner what better way to end your evening stregisrome.com
Bottega Veneta Suite. This sprawling suite, than with a nightcap under the giant Murano glass
designed by Tomas Maier with décor drawn chandelier at Le Grand Bar located in what is
from the brand’s collections, is the epitome of undoubtedly one of the most glamorous lobbies in
refinement. It offers a bedroom with a sitting area, all of Europe.

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m al div e s & a r a bi a n gu l f

Maldives and United Arab Emirates

W Retreat & Spa, Maldives



W Retreat & Spa - Maldives

W Retreat & Spa – Maldives is a private atoll with chair, jellyfish coffee table (see through), glowing FACILITIES
stunning white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons starfish pillow and cocktail trolley bar.
and spectacular reefs, ensuring an exclusive and The entire resort is cool, even the names. Drink at • Pool
indulgent escape. Located on the island of Fesdu Sip bar, dine at Fish, Fire or Kitchen, exercise at Fit • Away Spa
in the North Ari Atoll, the resort is 25 minutes by and ‘decelerate’ by the pool or at the Away Spa. • Water sports
seaplane and is close to the some of the best dive Fish is a gorgeous seafood restaurant over the water • Three restaurants and
sites in the Maldives. and is enchanting at sunset and in the moonlight. a bar
The newly restyled property redefines luxury in Fire is for casual dining barefoot on the beach and • Fitness centre
its 78 private and spacious retreats and suites, Kitchen is for all day dining with Pan Asian dishes. • Private island
with the vibrant personality of the property woven The days at the W Retreat & Spa - Maldives can
seamlessly into every aspect of the resort. be spent doing very little, lazing by your pool, 78 retreats and suites
Accommodation choices include 28 Wonderful on the beach, in the lagoon or being pampered in
Beach Oasis, 25 Spectacular Ocean Oasis, 21 the spa, or a lot, with so many choices. Windsurfing, W Retreat & Spa - Maldives
Fabulous Lagoon Oasis, three WOW Ocean Escape parasailing, jet skiing, snorkelling, sailing, kayaking, Fesdu Island, North Ari
and one Extreme WOW Ocean Haven, which is the paddle boarding or the most fun ever – using the Atoll, Maldives
W’s version of the Presidential Suite. Each retreat SeaBob – a motorised underwater scooter. +960 666 2222
has a king-sized signature W bed, wine refrigerator, For the ultimate experience, stow away for the day whotels.com/maldives
Munchie Box (mini bar), infinity plunge pool and or overnight on Gaathafushi, a secluded island for
sundeck. a couple or a group. Unwind like never before while
Set over the Indian Ocean, the Fabulous Lagoon your own private chef sets up a special candle light
Oasis and Spectacular Ocean Oasis retreats are BBQ as the sun dips over the horizon.
chic with funky touches such as a stingray rocking

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JUMEIRAH DHEVANAFUSHI, MALDIVES

Surrounded by the exotic beauty of the Indian Ocean a fine dining over-water restaurant or Mumayaz is FACILITIES
you couldn’t ask for a more spectacular setting. a beachside BBQ set against the splendor of the
A pinnacle of modern luxury in the Maldives, this Indian Ocean. • 24-hour butler service
amazing resort is enchanting. No one does private dining as well as Jumeirah • Swimming pools
Jumeirah Dhevanafushi is set up on two little islands Dhevanafushi. The staff can even set up a sofa and • Private swimming pool in
with expansive Beach Villas located on one and table for you made entirely out of sand (it takes each villa
16 Ocean Revives and Sanctuaries, amongst the 24 hours to prepare) with colourful cushions and • Talise Spa
largest and most luxurious in the Maldives, located lanterns. You won’t find anything like this anywhere • Overwater gym
on a separate island, a five minute boat trip away. else in the world. • Three restaurants
These ultra-spacious villas (270-square-metres) are The award-winning Talise Spa is on stilts over the • Private chef upon request
lavishly decorated with the finest finishes and all water with a glass panelled floor and has a range of • Full array of watersports
come with large private swimming pools. signature treatments delivered by experienced and
There are also two beautiful resort pools but they professional spa therapists. After your treatment, 37 all-suite villas
are pleasantly uncrowded as most guests choose chill out on the relaxation deck and be mesmerised
the privacy of their accommodation. by the water. Jumeirah Dhevanafushi
For those who want to explore the surrounding reef, Each resort in the Maldives is unique and has Maldives, Meradhoo Island
the resort organises private snorkelling and diving something very special to offer its guests. At Gaafu Alifu Atoll,
trips and there are various motorised water sports. Jumeirah Dhevanafushi, it is the complete privacy, Republic of Maldives
Breakfast is served by the beach – a great way to seclusion and an unbelievably high standard of +960 682 8800
start the day. For dinner there are a few different accommodation and service that sets it apart. The jumeirah.com
options - Azara offers a choice of modern European resort has also recently been awarded Green Globe
a la carte dishes featuring local seafood, Johara is Certification for sustainable practices.

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Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, DUBAI, UAE

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, a jewel on the western you outside. Lose yourself by the outdoor infinity FACILITIES
crescent of The Palm, is inspired by the extravagant pool overlooking the Arabian Gulf or venture onto
Ottoman Empire and is breathtakingly beautiful the beach. • Talise Ottoman Spa
with gold fountains, crystal chandeliers, turquoise Make sure you book a treatment at the Talise • Seven restaurants
velvet lounges and hand-painted frescoes on the Ottoman Spa, which has 42 treatment rooms, two • One bar and one nightclub
walls and ceilings. thalassotherapy pools, steam rooms, saunas, snow • Sinbad’s Kids Club
Guests can choose from 341 guest rooms, 26 rooms and three Hammams, hidden behind vast • Kids water park
lavish suites and 38 Royal Residences offering carved turquoise doors. It has the reputation of • 14 premium boutiques
stunning ocean views. The Guest Rooms are large being one of the best in the world. • MusicHall
and have huge beds decorated with colourful The dining is exceptional and varied with seven
Ottoman-inspired cushions, luxurious marble restaurants to choose from including Al Nafoorah, 405 rooms, suites and Royal
bathrooms with enormous baths carved out of which serves Lebanese cuisine, Amala which Residences
white marble and views looking over the harbour or delights with Indian dishes, Imperium (French), the
the beach. new Rib Room and Lalezar, which is Dubai’s first Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
The various suites are spectacular and the Anatolian restaurant. West Crescent Road
ultimate accommodation is in the multi-roomed Spice up your evening with drinks at the beautiful Palm Jumeirah
Royal Residences, which stand proudly around Voda Bar, and for a night of music you will never Dubai, United Arab Emirates
a magnificent lagoon pool in lush tropical gardens forget, experience the MusicHall, which presents +971 (4) 453 0000
and feature Turkish marble, rich dark wood and ten live acts a night. jumeirah.com
exterior ceramics from western Anatolia. With its opulent design, ornate features, exquisite
While the accommodation is almost too good interiors, world-class Spa and delightful dining, you
to leave, Zabeel Saray has many things to lure will feel as if you are part of 1001 Nights.

131

ISBN 978-0-9943063-4-0

9 780994 306340 >