Bodrum Retreat, Private Stone House Suites & Pool, in the Clouds
- Minimum stay:N/A
- Internet:Yes
- Pets allowed:No
- Wheel chair accessible:No
IMPRESSIONS
Bodrum Retreat is the owners dream come true.
The location is awesome and when you first arrive, it will take your breath away. The views are unparalleled and from the property you can see from Yalikavak Marina to the west, Samos Island in Greece, 45km away north and Gundogan to the east. While we have 3 suites for rental, we are definitely not like a hotel and in no way do we resemble anything else but a very private home.
If you decide to come, without any prompting, you will immediately feel at ease. The location is marked by twenty, 75 year old Italian cypress trees in which the birds sing and rare squirrels have their early morning breakfast.
Days are balmy, generally breezy and at least 5 degrees C. cooler than what you see below.
Evenings are perfect for outside dining and the sunsets are always different and magnificent.
One of the highest points on the Bodrum peninsula, this hand crafted stone house affords magnificent views of the Turkish coast as well as the Greek Islands from Kalimnos to Samos. Interior furnished by noted decorator. One of the most unique and beautiful Aegean properties you will find. Surrounded by mandarin, almond, fruit trees and grapes. Private local herb garden. Extensive natural stone patios. Swimming pool / dining / entertainment area with unobstructed views of the sea and hills. A private setting in a magical part of Bodrum.
The suites are also ideal for Fall, Winter and Spring visits to Bodrum as, in those seasons, heating is included in the pricing and warm bedding duvets provide exceptional comfort. Most restaurants have fireplaces and without crowds of tourists, the cuisine is at it's best. Scores of historical sites are yours for the day. Flights from NY, and European counties are at their lowest and Bodrum is just a 55 minute flight from exciting Istanbul.
We think Bodrum, out of season, is truly the best kept secret in the Aegean region.
A private setting in a magical part of Bodrum.
This farm house, consisting of 2 floors, with separate entrances, was built years ago by master stone builders. 50cm thick walls. Windows are antique, carved, latticed wood circa Ottoman Empire 1850. One can lease the top floor, called Labranda, or, the ground floor, called Herakleia, or book the entire house.
The 3rd suite, named Iassus, is located 50 metrs away from the farmhouse. It is private and somewhat larger than the other two suites and opens onto a small private rose garden. The views are exceptional.
All of the suites are perfect for a couple or an extended family if one decides to book more than one suite.
HERAKLEIA Residence: (Ground floor)
One enters the Herakleia residence via a 19C. Ottoman door from the extensive stone patio surrounding the house.
There is also a three meter wide sliding door (with screen) that opens to the courtyard.
Facing the sliding door, on the patio, is an enchanting small decorative Ottoman marble pool and fountain.
Double queen bed in Japanese tatami style, with orthopedic mattress, is tucked into a Roman alcove within the room.
Flat screen TV, DVD, satellite TV, International and local channels and Wi-Fi.
Wood antique dining table and chairs for eating in the room. Reading sofa and also a rare, cushioned, antique planters lounge chair.
Antique cabinet for clothes storage. Unique, Ottoman style kitchenette includes all necessary tableware and cooking accessories.
Mid size fridge, grill, gas stove, etc.
Bathroom equipped with 19th C. Ottoman marble sink and rain shower.
LABRANDA Residence
One enters the loft style residence via stone stairs from the extensive stone patio surrounding the house.
The East facing wall has colored glass windows that play the effects of the morning sun on the interior walls in a pleasing moving display. Double queen bed.
Flat screen TV, DVD, satellite TV, international and local channels and Wi-Fi.
Antique ebony 19th C.wood dining table and teak/iron chairs for eating in the room. Reading chair.
Antique 19th C Korean dressing cabinet for clothes storage.
Traditional antique pine reproduction of an Aegean kitchenette. All necessary tableware and cooking accessories. Mid size fridge, grill, gas stove, etc.
Bathroom equipped with 19th C. Ottoman marble sink and rain shower.
IASSUS residence
This cottage was built years ago by master stone builders. 50cm thick walls. The cottage has, in addition, a large natural pine wood and glass room that lets in good natural light for dining or just reading a book. The view from this room is North and West which is the direction of the surrounding countryside, the Aegean and the Greek Islands. On a clear day you can see Samos Island in Greece. Immediately below the cottage is a large field of lavender. The intimate outside dining area hosts a dining table and all around is rose garden.
This house is perfect for a couple or joined with Herakleia and Labranda presents an opportunity for a large family reunion. It is the largest of the 3 suites.
The Iassus residence is quite private. One enters the residence via an antique, Bodrum, pine carved door, from the extensive stone patio surrounding the house. Through this door, one enters the pine wood/glass room. This room is made from recycled, accordion style, pine wood doors mounted with clear glass in the upper half of each door. Great light in this room. Antique early 20th C. rosewood dining table with 2 antique rosewood chairs on one side and a 19th C. Rajastani takat lounge bed, fitted with soft billowy pillows on the other side. Overhead antique fan and a large original, trompe l'oeil painting complete the picture.
The north side has an antique, rare kilim chest, stuffed and made into small sitting sofa. All doors open to the North or to the West, which also harbors a small intimate rose garden and a Japanese oak dining table made from a hot tub circa 1850.
At the south end of this all weather room and up 2 stone steps, one enters the loft style stone cottage residence.
To the left of the entry door is the pine wood and tiled kitchen. The kitchen is large when compared to the size of the residence. All necessary tableware and cooking accessories. Fridge, toaster, grill, 4 burner gas stove, electrical oven, etc.
Good lighting and antique food art prints. A delight for food people.
To the right of the entry door is the lounging couch then a queen bed, both of which face the flat screen TV.
DVD, satellite TV, international and local channels and Wi-Fi.
Original artwork throughout.
Lastly, a delightfully modern bathroom equipped with rain shower. Wonderful original 19th C. lithographs of old Istanbul and an old map of Turkey decorate the walls.
House is furnished with top quality furnishings and antiques.
Either or both of the above residences are the perfect family getaway or join many couples who have booked with us for their honeymoon.
When available, all suites can be booked.
Truly, a romantic and magic area
The pool, 20 meters from the house, is unique in style and is surrounded by a small mandarin orange orchard.
Pool is a salt water pool.
Lounge chairs, stone tables, etc., strategically placed throughout the area.
There a a number of spots for dining outside on this large 8000 meter property (approx. 80, 000 sq ft).
The owners stone house is also on the property.
The view from the villa is north-west, looking over volcanic rock shapes and catacombs in the valley, the new Yalikavak Marina to the west and then 180 degree, unobstructed, views out to the Greek islands. There are many walking trails in the area. The village of Yalikavak offers shops and a large selection of restaurants along the waters edge. There is a good selection of shops and cafes at the international marina. Sailboats and windsurf can be rented. 10 - 20 minutes takes you to neighboring villages and 20-25 minutes to the lively town of Bodrum. Ephesus is less than a two hour drive and the ancient Mausoleum of Halikarnas and Castle of St. Peter are both in Bodrum City. Economical car hire with airport pick up and drop off can be arranged. Blue Cruise trips can also be organized.
Owner has extensive knowledge of the local area, as well as Turkey wide, for sightseeing, gourmet dining, etc.
The harvest from the owners vineyard, below the house, begins around last week of August.
House is furnished with top quality furnishings and antiques.
PLEASE CONTACT US FOR INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SMALL COTTAGE ON OUR VINEYARD AND OUR LOVELY VILLAGE HOUSE, BOTH ECONOMICAL OPTIONS, NEAR THIS PROPERTY.
If you have any questions or would like to receive additional photographs, we have established a number for you to call from USA. (1-914 5951940) Emails will be answered promptly.
Keywords: Farm House residence, summer, fall, winter, spring
Property Type
- Farmhouse
Accommodation Type
- Vacation Rental
Suitability
Bedrooms
- 2 Bedrooms, Sleeps 6, Beds for 4-6
- Bedroom 1
- Bedroom 2
- Other (See Description)
Bathrooms
- 2.0 Bathrooms
- Bathroom 1
- Bathroom 2
Kitchen & Dining
Amenities
- Parking Off Street
- Covered Parking
Entertainment
- Television
- DVD Player
- Stereo
- Video Library
- CD Player
Communications
Pool & Spa
Outdoor Features
- Lanai / Gazebo
- Outdoor Grill
Location & View
- Mountain View
Activities
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Groceries
- Hospital
- Laundromat
- Medical Services
- Wind-Surfing
- Parasailing
- Tennis
- Snorkeling/Diving
- Cycling
- ATM/Bank
- Water Skiing
- Sailing
- Kayaking
- Swimming
- Surfing
- Golf
- Hiking
- Jet Skiing
- Fishing
- Pier Fishing
- Mountain Biking
- Scuba Diving Or Snorkeling
- Fitness Center
- Horseshoes
- Cinemas
- Live Theater
- Restaurants
- Zoo
- Museums
- Theme Parks
- Library
- Marina
- Recreation Center
- Boating
- Ruins
- Bird Watching
- Outlet Shopping
- Scenic Drives
- Walking
- Antiquing
- Shopping
- Wildlife Viewing
- Horseback Riding
- Sight Seeing
- Water Parks
- Snorkeling
Reviews
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A retreat among paradise...
A retreat among paradise...
- Guest Nico
- Date of stay 07/15/12
- Review Submitted 10/02/12
Our family spent 2 weeks in Bodrum retreat with friends visiting from Istanbul. As much as we know Turkey already, we experienced a whole new dimension thanks to the owner's appreciation of what true, simple luxury is all about. A wonderfull environment in and outside the property, a breath taking view, a house full of traditional features yet practical and so comfortable to stay in....not to mention the hospitality and kindness of the hosts. There is only one conclusion to this experience: We'll be back for more and more!Recommended for: Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, families with teenagers, age 55+, sightseeing, families with young children.
Owner response: Thank you so much for your gracious review. It was a pleasure hosting you and the extended family for 2 weeks. I have to thank Michael in Singapore for recommending us. I know you have been to Turkey so many times before and it is kismet that a mutual friend in Singapore was the guru. Would love to see you and the family again and Masha may want to think about hosting a Russian Ballet course for children next time you come. Thanks again for the superb review
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Fantastic place
Fantastic place
- Guest Michael O
- Date of stay 06/09/12
- Review Submitted 09/21/12
This is a perfect place to visit Turkey's Aegean coast and the Bodrum Peninsula. The view is remarkable, the setting tranquil and the hosts magnificent. My wife and I rented one suite, while a friend rented another. We had a wonderful time. Frank and Berna are the perfect hosts, friendly and interesting. Frank can provide you with information on most anything you would want to do in the area. You can visit Ephesus and Rhodes as well as numerous closer points of interest. Yalikavak, the nearest town, has a truly amazing market where you can buy fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, spices and locally made clothing and crafts. Bodrum is a short drive away if you want to spend time with the glitterati. But, I believe, the main attraction of this place is that it sits hundreds of feet above the coast, affording guests gorgeous views amid peace and quiet. We were there during a heat wave, yet the property was as much as 15-20 degrees F cooler than it was in Bodrum town. Frank will let you pick fresh herbs from his garden to help prepare the delicious local foods you have purchased at the market. He will share wine pressed from his vineyard. I give the place my highest recommendation and have already advised friends and family to go and stay there.Recommended for: Romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Owner response: A belated thank you, Michael, for your review. The review was more than kind and we certainly appreciate your comments. This was an interesting year for us, with interesting, creative people coming to stay and you are definitely in that group. Thank you once again
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Stunning place with a spectacular view
Stunning place with a spectacular view
- Guest Andy
- Date of stay 09/09/11
- Review Submitted 09/26/11
If you've ever looked at a magazine layout of a stunning home and dreamed of diving in and living there, then this is the place for you. We spent 12 days living the good life on this stunning piece of property overlooking the distant bay. We stayed in the downstairs apartment, which had all of the comforts of home. We so thoroughly enjoyed being 'away from it all' that we spent most days lounging by the pool, cooking our own meals and staying in drinking wine Frank makes right on the property. When you stay at a place like this, you get to experience 'living' on the Bodrum peninsula, instead of just 'visiting.' Frank has put together a great book of information that has you living like a local in just a few days. This place is quiet and secluded, but is a quick drive to all of the modern conveniences you need. The small town of Yalikavak was about a 10-minute drive and offered up many restaurants and local shopping, while the town of Bodrum was about 20 minutes away and was full of the hustle and bustle of tourism. I've been all over that part of the world, and found Bodrum to be very safe and welcoming. And the people don't drive like maniacs! And Frank is about the best host you could ask for.Recommended for: Romantic getaway, adventure seekers.
Owner response: Thank you so much for this superb review. I could not ask for anything more.
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Bodrum Retreat was wonderful!
Bodrum Retreat was wonderful!
- Guest em
- Date of stay 07/02/11
- Review Submitted 09/04/11
Awesome views, awesome and very accommodating host and awesome surrounds, A true retreat and we all had nothing but good things to say. There are lots of places to discover in the area and the retreat rooms have tons of information on things to see and do - but our host was also a mountain of information as Turkey and this areas, has been his home for many years. You really do need to rent a car as there is no real bus service or tranist in the area - but that is the only drawback. supermarkets, restaurants and sites to see are not far away. would truly recommend this place as a great stay for a couple or a couple of friends.Recommended for: Romantic getaway, girls getaway, adventure seekers, age 55+, sightseeing.
Owner response: Emily, the 2 weeks you and your friends stayed with us were great and I also thank you for the many laughs we had together. Thank you for the great review.
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Bodrum Bonanza
Bodrum Bonanza
- Guest sid
- Date of stay 04/22/11
- Review Submitted 09/02/11
I would describe our recent trip to Bodrum Villas simply as a 'Bodrum Bonanza' as the entire experience was so unexpectedly wonderful ! Also a great package in terms of value for money. The hospitality and ofcourse the home made food that was served was sublime.The general guality of air and the absence of any environmental pollution was an added bonus.But a nice touch was a small tour of the adjoining vineyard and a sampling of home made wines.I recommend the Bodrum Retreat whole heartedly and have already decided to have a small birthday party next time with friends at the Bodrum Villa as this place is excellantly positioned to provide such a treat.However please ensure that you have your own car transportation as the Bodrum Retreat is a retreat in that sense of the term and private car transportation is a must.And before I forget the views from and around the Bodrum Retreat are simply spectacular and out of this world !Recommended for: Romantic getaway, age 55+, sightseeing.
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Turkish Delight
Turkish Delight
- Guest Peter
- Date of stay 07/16/11
- Review Submitted 08/31/11
Sublime setting, pristine environment, hospitable host. Great retreat. I hope to return. The location is somewhat remote, which is the idea. But a 10-minute drive takes you to the nearby villages and the seaside. The best feature is the owner (Frank), who lives on site and sees to one's every need. Frank has a wealth of life experience and a love of good food, wine, and life. His many contacts with the locals make one's stay an immersion into Turkish life, not just a passing visit as a tourist. Kudos to a top-notch operation.Recommended for: Romantic getaway, age 55+.
Owner response: Peter, it was a pleasure having you as our guests. Your review is special and I thank you.
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Great for couples without infants
Great for couples without infants
- Guest wintlen
- Date of stay 04/30/11
- Review Submitted 05/04/11
We reserved this hilltop rental at the last minute and the owner was more than delighted to have us at his home. I was very excited to be staying in the hills above the touristy towns on the peninsula. This is the perfect place to celebrate a romantic weekend or a honeymoon, but it certainly is not for young children. Frank, the owner, is very polite and has built a dream home that would make anybody jealous. Though, we would have liked to conversed with him a bit more and gotten to know more about the house and his property. The only reason that I give this property a good rating is due to the amount charged and the funny description given to the property. I believe that it should be clearly stated that if you rent a single floor of his property for 100 euro per night, you are renting a studio apartment. This could all be to my brief reading of his description, but I was a tad bit misled by the description. Above all, I really wish that after emailing Frank that he would have re-iterated that this property is not meant for young children. Like I said before, his house is absolutely perfect for a couple. It belongs on the cover of a magazine and should be advertised as such. I don't intend to detour anybody from renting with him, because he was very nice. I just wish that I would have known that the entire house...from bed area to bathroom to shower stall was skull splitting stone. A little difficult with a 1 year old. A recommendation that I have to the owners is to have a set time or day that the "help" picks up trash and towels. This was never done and can be a problem with a pooing baby. We will gladly clean up the rental ourselves if we are provided the tools to do so. So please...rent from Frank for a romantic weekend, but be sure to leave the kids at home and communicate that you would like instructions on cleaning. My wife and I will probably not stay again due to cost, location, and sharp edges.Recommended for: Romantic getaway.
Owner response: Thank you for your comments. I am truly sorry about your experience with Dee, your daughter. In my VRBO advert, I do say that I generally do not accept children under 12, but to be honest, this was simply because I have the impression that younger children make more noise and my goal is to have a sense of peace prevail. I had not thought of the "kid friendly" aspect, especially, since I am the father of a 5 month old girl and my caretaker has a 2 year old son. Nevertheless, I am sure you are correct as the patio are all natural stone and not absolutely flat and there is no fence around the pool, etc. I also apologize for not being around more but with 4 houses for rent and at the beginning of spring (start of season); I was very, very busy. I reviewed my description and it seems fairly clear that it is one house but divided into two loft like spaces each one rentable as a separate entity and each one is described. I also say for families, etc. and it is possible to book the whole house. There is a garbage bin at the back of the house and it is my fault that you were not made aware of this. We pick up trash from there and from the room on guest departure. We change sheets and towels once (on the 3rd or 4th day) during a normal weeks (7 days) stay so yes, we did not change linen as your stay was 4 days. In the welcome booklet in the room we do offer, at extra cost, cleaning service but it generally is not required for those staying a short period of a few days. If a guest asks for a vacuum we would always be pleased to provide. I will make a point, in my description, that the property is not kid friendly and I thank you again for bringing this to my attention.
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Amazing villa in Bodrum
Amazing villa in Bodrum
- Guest Ann
- Date of stay 08/03/10
- Review Submitted 04/11/11
The view from the house is spectacular - we could see some of the Greek islands closest to Bodrum and the most wonderful sunsets. The house is very charming with much attention to detail in architecture and landscaping. The gardens are beautiful and full of mandarin trees, wild flowers, fresh herbs, tall cedars and many others that we can't name. Thanks Frank for the fresh basil and herbs that made our cooking special. We felt like we had gone back in time in your house. The art and antiques are really something out of the ordinary! We came for peace and solitude and found a piece of paradise. We will definitely come back.Recommended for: Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.
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My stay in Bodrum
My stay in Bodrum
- Guest Lou
- Date of stay 07/10/06
- Review Submitted 04/05/11
We had a wonderful 2 weeks here celebrating our wedding anniversary. The views and sunsets are superb. The cool breezes from the north are quite a contrast to hot Bodrum City. Enjoyed our day trip to Greece (Kos) on the ferry and thanks Frank, for your recommendation for our superb Greek seafood lunch. The ambiance of your special place in the hills made it very difficult to leave.Recommended for: Romantic getaway, girls getaway, adventure seekers, families with teenagers, age 55+, sightseeing, families with young children.
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Guest comment entered by owner
- Guest Andy and Tina - UK
- Date of stay 08/28/06
- Review Submitted 04/04/11
We have had the most perfect of holidays,,,,2 weeks,,, of blissful chilling out. This is such a special place and we are grateful to Frank for making us so very welcome. My batteries have never felt so recharged after a holiday. Thank youDid you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0
Rates
Iassus Suite High Season June 15-Aug 31 .. Euro 1050/week(for 2) Herakleia Suite High Season June 15-Aug 31 .. Euro 945/week (for 2) Labranda Suite High Season June 15-Aug 31 .. Euro 875/week (for 2) Fall/Spring-Sept 1--June 14 Iassus 910€/Herakleia 840€/Labranda 770€/week(for 2) We are flexible with day of arrival. Ask about shorter and longer stays Holiday rates throughout the year are the same as high season rates Deposit for this property is generally made via PayPal. Bank-to-bank transfers acceptable, Guests from USA may pay by personal check.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
This owner accepts HomeAway's most secure form of payment.
HomeAway PaymentsSM is the most secure way to pay and automatically protects your payment up to $10,000 (learn more). Call the owner directly to confirm payment details.
Location
- Nearest Beach: beach at 3 Kilometres
Owner info
Year Purchased: 1993
About the owner: International person who has lived for decades in New York, Europe, Turkey and Southeast Asia. Antiques and Art collector Wine maker Gourmet and chef Strong architectural leanings Father of Amber, my baby daughter
Why the Owner Chose Bodrum:
We choose only properties that have something extra to offer. Privacy, Views, Climate, Comfort, Fun
The Unique Benefits at this Farmhouse:
All our properties are unique and really do not fit into the normal boutique mold as they are all, one off designs, not to be found elsewhere.
This property is high and above everything. It is a perfect getaway. Even in high season there is tranquility. The suites are furnished with high quality and unusual furnishings and art.
Contact us
- Primary: ++90 5324271737 (Turkey)
- Secondary: +1 9145951940 (New York, USA), +44 01212 884848 (Unit
Links to more information:
- CLICK HERE - LInk showing my rental properties
- Click Here to see All My Rental Listings
Photos
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Our swimming pool at dusk. Salt water
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Lavender field, mystic hills and the Aegean Sea. Our entry garden.
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Photo of house area taken from 2 km away
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We have 30, 50ft tall Italian cypress trees lining the terrace of the suites
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Herakleia entry door. 19th C. carved rosewood
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Herakleia Suite living space
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Herakleia Suite Kitchenette with antique Black Sea door leading to bathroom
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Labranda Suite queen bed and 19th C. clothes cabinet
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Labranda Suite - kitchenette
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Dinner at home on a typical evening high in the cool hills of Bodrum.
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Iassus Suite- bed toward kitchen
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Iassus Suite bathroom
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Swim pool (salt water) surrounded by a mandarin orange grove
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Annual Bodrum Cup sailing race, Yalikavak to Didim. Taken from Suites
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Entry door to Bodrum Retreat
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Courtyard - Labranda UP (stairs to left) and Herakleia DOWN
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Herakleia Suite queen bed
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Herakleia Suite Ottoman style pine wood kichenette. Byzantine ceiling
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Herakleia and Labranda courtyard
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Labranda Suite living space
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Labranda Suite - Ottoman marble sink and pierced brass mirror
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Iassus Suite taken from garden to pine room
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Iassus Suite - kitchen toward bed then bathtoom
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The best village breakfast experience, only 1 km from house
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Date last modified - Thursday, May 23, 2013