The Turkish gem that will please everyone

It’s no coincidence that Turkey’s Cullinan Belek shares its name with the largest – and most magnificent – diamond ever discovered. Everything about this ultra-luxury five-star Riviera resort exudes glitz and glamour, from chic swim-up suites to a Michelin star-studded restaurant scene. Its scale is equally impressive, with a 36-hole golf course, a fully fledged water park and countless pools glistening across the expansive grounds.

But perhaps the most dazzling part is the setting itself, framed by the imposing backdrop of the majestic Taurus Mountains. Belek lies in the sun-soaked region of Antalya on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, which has long drawn heat-seeking travellers and weekending Istanbulites escaping the city. Open all year round, Cullinan Belek sits at the heart of this increasingly popular hotspot, but a sense of calm abounds on the resort’s prime, private sweep of white sand, which is dotted with sun loungers. Extending out across the faultless blue of the Mediterranean, a pier of shady cabanas suspended on stilts adds a touch of Maldivian exclusivity to long, languid beach days.

It can be tempting to while away the days here, barely moving from this sensational shoreline. Yet while there’s certainly no need to stray, the resort’s extensive facilities make a compelling case for a little après-sun exploration. With an aesthetic defined by wooden details, gleaming marble and mood-lifting touches of colour, it’s a pleasure simply to wander around and remarkable to see how such a sizeable resort merges seamlessly into its lush natural setting. The soothing surroundings reach their apex at the thoughtfully designed C’Espace Spa, a green and blue-hued temple of rejuvenation and recuperation with its own galaxy-domed Turkish bath, hammam, relaxation areas and treatment rooms. Here, an extensive menu of bliss-inducing treatments (featuring high-end cosmetic brands) awaits, as well as fitness facilities for energising workouts.

Beyond the spa, there are plenty more spots in which to unwind, including no fewer than 13 pools (with some heated for year-round bathing). For a more active day, book a tee time at the 36-hole Cullinan Links golf course, which has a scenic river on one side and the glistening sea on the other, or seek out some adrenaline at the Aquapark. And with everything from a kid’s club to a nightclub, there’s fun on offer for every age group.

All that activity will ensure you’ve worked up an appetite for Cullinan Belek’s vibrant collection of restaurants. Super-fresh produce appears in all manner of delicious guises at more than 10 eating and drinking spots, catering to every taste and encouraging a stress-free, wherever-whenever attitude to dining. Among the highlights just-caught seafood and delicacies from across the globe at Mare, handmade pasta at Pascarella, authentic charcoal-grilled Turkish kebabs at Hasir and late-night snacks at the 24/7 Cullinan Bistro. There’s even a dedicated children’s restaurant (ideal if there are fussy youngsters in tow). Each experience will replace any existing preconceptions of all-inclusives with epicurean delight.

As for the rooms, there’s something to suit every group. Even the most basic feel plush, with beautiful views of the golf course or sea, while swim-up suites are perfect for those seeking a little seclusion. For the greatest sense of space, book one of the resort’s luxurious villas, which will feel like your own Turkish Riviera home, with pools for private morning laps and sunny, fully furnished terraces for sundowners or alfresco dining.

Wherever you stay in this grand, glimmering resort, the brightest jewel in the Turquoise Coast’s crown will feel like the lap of luxury.

Book your stay at Cullinanhotels.com