Sumahan on the Water

NileGuide Expert tip:

The boat-shuttle service is free at certain hours of the day, ask at the reception for details.

Description:

• Formerly an alcohol factory producing suma -the unadulterated spirit used to make rakı (the Turkish Ouzo)-, the establishment of Sumahan as a boutique hotel was a long standing wish that its owner-architects had. Nedret Ercan Butler and Mark Butler were both studying architecture in Minnesota, USA when they met. Nedret Ercan Butler established the "Sumahan Project" as her thesis for graduation. The couple brought that to life years later when they returned to Istanbul. With a magnificent view of the Istanbul skyline and bustling waterside activity, the hotel is indeed a charming place.  Adjacent to the hotel is the in-house seafood restaurant, called Kordon Balık. However, one may also lunch or dine inside the Sumahan itself (great salads and sample mezes). It is also possible to sign up for transport and a guide to see around and perhaps discover other enchanting places. Or, ask for the hotel-boat-shuttle to take across to the European side and make discoveries on your own. When you come back, relax in the sublime Turkish bath at the hotel's health center. With its modern, cozy rooms and location, it personifies the romantic spirit of the city.
• © NileGuide2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010