Turkey is the crossroads between continents, where east meets west in a blend of cultures. From its history under the Roman Empire to the Ottomans to the modern Turks, Istanbul is a historic city, and one of its historic buildings is now a world-class hotel; the Four Seasons Istanbul at Sultanahmet.
There are two Four Seasons hotels in Istanbul, but the Four Seasons Sultanahmet is the older of the two, a refurbished and re-purposed neo-classic Turkish prison, just steps away from the city’s Blue Mosque and Topaki Palace.
It was once called the Sultanahmet Jail, and maintains a small exhibit of artefacts from its former prison days in the lobby, but guest needn’t be concerned. The Four Seasons is now more palatial than imprisoning. It is a stunning building, with 65 guestrooms and suites surrounding an open landscaped courtyard.
The rooms are large, with sitting areas near picture windows that are no longer barred, each with stunning views of the city. Décor is typically Turkish, with warm inviting colours, and works by contemporary artists in each suite. Marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs border on decadent. Modern touches include large plasma TVs with DVD players, Bose CD players, and even a second LCD TV by the tub.
Room rates range from €490 Euro per night to €6,000 Euro for the St. Sophia or Marmara Suites, which include a whirlpool, kitchen and dining area, and three private terraces from the bedroom and living room providing breathtaking views of the city.
In the courtyard, guests can enjoy fine cuisine either indoors, or outdoors, in the glass-enclosed restaurant, Seasons, which was recently named the best hotel restaurant in Turkey.
For snacks, cocktails or coffee, there are three separate areas of the hotel’s Lounge; a fireplace room, a piano bar and a winter green space featuring a pergola which overlooks the garden.
Another delight at the Four Seasons Sultanahmet is the variety of spa treatments available at the Health Club. The Sultanahmet massage combines Eastern and Western massage techniques for true relaxation, and aromatherapy treatments use essential oils to relax and energise.
