I recently had the opportunity to revisit Istanbul, a city that holds a special place in my heart. Every time I come here, I think that I already know it inside and out and that it will never surprise me again. But, as always, Istanbul manages to do that again. Whether it’s the unexpected views of the Bosphorus or the hidden wonders of modern architecture among the ancient streets, the city once again provides new experiences. Istanbul is a place that cannot be fully understood in a single visit, and that is its magic: it always surprises and makes you come back again and again. A crucial part of a successful trip, of course, is choosing the right place to stay. This time I picked the CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul, and the choice was perfect. Located in the city centre, in the Taksim-Gumussuyu district, the hotel impressed me with its luxury from the moment I stepped inside. However, as it turned out, its history is even more impressive. The construction of this building began in the late 19th century when Italian Ambassador Baron Blanc built a mansion for his embassy. Later, Sultan Abdul Hamid II purchased the mansion, transforming it into the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Ottoman Empire before it eventually became a hotel. Since its inception, the hotel has welcomed many notable guests, including Ataturk, the founder and first president of the Republic of Turkey.
The interior of the hotel is a true work of art, seamlessly combining elements of modern design and Ottoman traditions. Each floor is named in honour of the consorts of Ottoman sultans who left a significant mark in history, and the halls are decorated with luxurious costumes from that era. Upon entering the lobby, guests are greeted by a stunning artwork entitled “The History of Istanbul”. An audio guide which can be downloaded onto a mobile device, offers a deeper insight into each element depicted in the painting. Measuring 2.64 by 6.64 metres, this work is the largest piece dedicated to Istanbul ever displayed in the hotel lobby. The hotel has 382 modern rooms, ranging from 35 square metres to more spacious suites. The interiors are characterised by soothing pastel tones and marble, creating an atmosphere of both elegance and comfort. Each room is equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay: premium cosmetics, high-quality textiles, a pillow menu, a mini-bar, a smart home system, total black-out curtains and high-speed Wi-Fi. Recognised by the Travel Time Awards, the hotel features the largest Presidential Suite in Turkey, spanning 850 square metres. This extraordinary suite includes a private spa as well as a picturesque terrace overlooking the Bosphorus. For longer stays, the hotel offers 68 apartments in the separate CVK Park Prestige Suites building complete with kitchens, washing machines, and some offering terraces with stunning views of the Bosphorus. The hotel is also renowned for its exceptional gastronomy. “Gümüşsüyü” restaurant, named after the surrounding neighbourhood, offers a buffet breakfast each morning, while in the afternoon and evening, you can enjoy exquisite “A La Carte Menu” dishes at the Stella Lounge restaurant or Izaka Terrace. Izaka Terrace impressed me not only with its magnificent view of the Bosphorus but also with the signature cuisine of Chef Serhat Eliçora, the winner of the prestigious Bocuse d’Or Turkey gastronomic competition. The menu, inspired by Istanbul’s rich history, includes both traditional meat kebabs and fresh Mediterranean fish ensuring that there is something to suit every taste. As a lover of Japanese cuisine, I couldn’t resist visiting the newly opened Kumiko Sushi & More restaurant, where the chef creates true masterpieces inspired by the philosophy of the Japanese technique Kumiko. Every ingredient is meticulously selected and perfectly paired, with seafood and fish sourced directly from Japan. One of the highlights of a holiday at CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel is undoubtedly the spa. Safira Spa & Fitness, the largest wellness centre in Istanbul offers a unique VIP Spa concept, which has been implemented for the first time in Turkey. The centre includes fitness facilities for both men and women, as well as a Turkish bath and swimming pool that is open all year round and has a glass sliding dome. Guests can also enjoy group classes, spinning, pilates, and personalised training sessions. CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul has proven to be an exceptional place, effortlessly combining luxury, comfort, and the unique charm of Istanbul. If asked whether I would return, I can say with certainty: without a doubt!.
