Barut Hemera

Side's ancient city and old harbour are about 3 km from Barut Hemera, so spending an evening watching the sun go down behind the Temple of Apollo takes very little planning.

The hotel is beachfront and runs Ultra All Inclusive, with around 375 rooms. What interests us most is that some room types are reserved for adults. Alongside superior and deluxe rooms there are swim-up rooms opening straight onto a pool and rooms with a jacuzzi, and families can book rooms for up to four. So the hotel caters for couples and families alike, but bear in mind that it is not an adults-only hotel overall.

Besides the main buffet, there are the Akdeniz, Sandal, Sofra and Olive restaurants, with Meltem Sushi charged. Most restaurants being included means variety at dinner without extra spending.

The spa has a Turkish bath, massage rooms, facials, a sauna and a steam room.

The weak spot is the beach: about 80 metres of mixed sand and gravel, which is short for a 375-room hotel. If you dream of a long sandy beach, this may not satisfy you. Antalya Airport is also about 60 km away, a noticeably longer transfer than from Lara.

It does not suit those who want broad sands or a quick airport run.

Kamelya Selin has around 500 metres of beach for about 275 rooms, far more generous on shoreline. Side Star Elegance, with its fine sandy beach and single-building layout, is a different kind of choice.

Side's summers are long and hot; in July and August, save the ancient city for early morning or sunset. May and October suit a mix of sightseeing and swimming, though the sea can still be cool in early May.