A Secluded Secret Paradise on the Turkish Riviera Perfect for Destination Weddings
By Hope Gainer
If you know, you know. But most just don’t know.
It’s in the middle of nowhere in Southwestern Turkey.
And that’s what may make it one of the most coveted destination wedding locations.
Perched high on a hillside with 360-degree panoramic views overlooking a scenic cove on the Datca Peninsula of Turkey, where the Aegean and Mediterranean seas meet, one finds this magnificent resort, D Maris Bay. Almost two million square feet of land (about 60 hectares) encompass the property full of pine forests, volcanic mountain ranges, shimmering waters, natural private beaches and tons of flora and fauna. It is home to 188 different plant varieties and precious species like the majestic feline caracal and the Eleonora falcon as well as sea turtles.
The journey to arrival is an adventure. Wanna arrive by air on a heli, catching an aerial first glimpse of this heavenly spot on earth? D Maris Bay helipad is ready and waiting for its VIP guest arrivals. Gotta megayacht and just want to cozy up to the action? That’s possible too and the resorts shuttle will happily collect boaters. Or arrange for a VIP car pick-up from one of the closest Turkey airports (Dalaman 1.5 hours or Bodrum 2 hours away). Sit back, relax and enjoy the panoramic views while riding on the winding roads hugging the cliffs overlooking the Turkish coastline. The final three mile stretch leads right into the resort.
Upon arrival, first impressions are lasting. Once inside the lobby and looking straight ahead is one of the most breathtaking views on planet earth. Settling into the rooms or suites, guests get another breathtaking view of the panoramic bay or the rugged mountains.
There are 196 accommodations in total. In all, D Maris Bay has 5 unique restaurants, 8 bars, 3 lounges, 2 pools, 20 experiences and is surrounded by a peaceful hidden bay, soft white sand beaches and acres of lush forest making it adequately equipped for a dream destination wedding. The challenge will be deciding where to host the ultimate D Maris Bay wedding whether beachside or on Green Hill or in one of the renowned restaurants, There are so many activities for wedding guests to choose from including swimming, boating, running, yoga, tennis or hitting the D Gym or Mytha Spa
Mealtime requires another tough decision. Hmmm what to choose….Nusr-et, the famed Turkish steak house owned by flamboyant server, ‘Salt Bae: Gokce’ who sprinkles salt over his shoulder onto the patrons prime steak slices, Zuma for its famous Japanese cuisine with sharing dishes plus sushi and Turkish mezes all served alfresco with a panoramic view, La Guerite, a French outpost from Cannes and St. Barts with seafood and Aegean specialties with a DJ setting the tone, Manos Greek taverna sitting waterside serving super fresh fish including just caught octopus with a great Greek ambiance including traditional song and dance and of course mandatory plate throwing or D Maris Kitchen for a more laid-back bistro meal? Tough decisions again, but all are great choices and if time permits, try them all. Breakfasts are buffet-style with just about everything under the Turkish sun served. And just about everywhere at D Maris Bay guests can grab a cocktail or two, even at the Tennis and Pool Bars.
For shopaholics, there are luxury boutiques on premises with a myriad of favorite designer brands from Stella McCartney to Missoni, Pucci and more. And for those wanting to spruce up there summer wardrobe there are plenty of accessories like espadrilles and beach bags. Plus, there’s even a timepiece boutique with top high-end brands, but who wants to keep time while at D Maris Bay?
Service is divine at D Maris Bay. From the first encounter to the last, staff could not be more pleasant, helpful and kind. A special shout out to the D Maris Bay, gregarious General Manager, Vito who brings a touch of Italian hospitality and friendliness to this already outstanding resort with top notch Turkish hospitality.
Come one, come all – bring the family or go solo as all are welcome at D Maris Bay. There’s a kids’ club called D Kiddie, plus a Lux Tennis Academy, Sailing Lessons, Bodyism bootcamp, scuba diving and boating excursions.
D Maris Bay is truly a spectacular place to say “I do” and/or honeymoon. It is the crown jewel of the Aegean along the Turkish Riviera, the ultimate destination resort marrying ultra-luxury with escapism.
D Maris Bay is open annually from mid-April til early November, perfect seasons for weddings.