Markiz Konakları (“Mansions of the Marquise”), a fine boutique hotel/inn in Şirince, near Ephesus in Turkey’s Aegean region, is the creation of Ms Begum Doğulu.
Several restored Şirince houses on the hillside above the town hold eight lovingly restored rooms and suites, some with fine sunrise views of the town, and peace and quiet.
Many of the rooms were obviously done with a feminine touch: four-poster beds, lace-fringed pillows and curtains, delicate lamps and gilt mirrors. Some rooms have working fireplaces for brisk spring and autumn evenings, but all also have central heating and individual air-conditioning units. Flat-screen TVs are standard, as is Wifi for connection to the Internet.
Besides its elegant guest rooms, Markiz Konakları has a restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, and some of the best cuisine in Şirince. Even if you don’t stay here, I recommend coming to enjoy the restaurant.
The chef at Markiz Konakları uses eggs from the hotel’s own hens, and has a traditional stone oven and a tandır(brick-lined roasting pit) for special occasions.
A small hamam with marble-lined steam room, dry-heat sauna, regular shower, and massage table is ready for guests’ use, and can be invigorating after a hot day’s sightseeing.
 |
| Tables on the terrace… |
Markiz Konakları’s conversation nooks are many and varied: a comfy sofa and armchairs with a fine view of the town; a stone table and bench, and another table and bench carved from an old tree, are on the garden terrace; and a shaded kameliya (belvedere) above the hotel has simply spectacular views.
The resident manager, Mr Sadri Arıbaş, has a long career in tourism and is always available for advice and guidance, or a friendly chat about Şirince, Ephesus and vicinity.
Click here for room rates & availability.
Markiz Konakları Inn & Restaurant
6. Sokak, No: 20/1
Şirince, İzmir, Türkiye
—by Tom Brosnahan
| Şirince Hotels |  |
Best Travel Agencies 