Antalya's Hidden Gem: Sherwood Premio Hotel Review (You Won't Believe This!)
Alright, buckle up, because I'm about to spill the tea, the baklava, the whole shebang, on Antalya's "Hidden Gem," the Sherwood Premio Hotel. And trust me, you won't believe this. Forget perfectly curated Instagram feeds, this is the raw, messy, and unexpectedly delightful truth. Let's get real real.
First, the SEO stuff (sorry, gotta do it, marketing wants their keywords!): Antalya Hotel Review, Sherwood Premio, Turkey, Accessible Hotel, Spa Hotel, All-Inclusive, Family Friendly, Luxury Hotel, Antalya Accommodation, Best Hotels Antalya, Pool with a View, Free Wi-Fi, Antalya Activities, Turkish Riviera. Phew. Okay, now the fun starts.
Arrival and First Impressions: Was It Worth the Wait?
Finding the Sherwood Premio was like stumbling upon a secret stash of Turkish Delights. Seriously, the drive in… I'm pretty sure I saw a donkey cart (okay, maybe not, but the vibe was definitely off the beaten path, in a good way). The location, a bit removed from the ultra-touristy hustle of Antalya's city center, is a HUGE plus. It felt like an immediate escape, a deep breath of fresh, Mediterranean air.
Access and Accessibility (Important Stuff!):
Okay, accessibility. Let's be honest, finding truly accessible hotels can be a nightmare. I was VERY happy. Yes. The Sherwood Premio scored big on this front.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Excellent. Ramps, elevators, and spacious (and comfortably equipped) rooms. This truly matters. Seriously.
- Facilities for Disabled Guests: They've thought of everything. I mean, everything.
- Getting around was a breeze, which is a HUGE weight off your shoulders when you’re looking for a relaxing vacation.
- Important Note: While I didn't need it personally, the level of consideration for accessibility was impressive.
Inside the Fortress of Relaxation (Rooms and Amenities):
Forget cramped, sterile hotel rooms. Our room was spacious, airy, and…well, a bit too comfortable. The bed? Forget about it. I almost missed an excursion because I was glued to the softest, fluffiest pillows known to humankind.
- Free Wi-Fi: Everywhere. Not just in the rooms, but blasting out into the pool area like a digital siren song. Perfect for Instagramming those amazing sunsets (more on that later). Oh, and they have Wi-Fi for Special Events, too.
- Air Conditioning: Thank GOD. Antalya heat is no joke.
- Mini-Bar: Fully stocked. Just saying.
- Bathroom Rituals: Bathrobes, slippers, all the little extras that make you feel like you're actually on vacation, not just surviving.
- Soundproofing Ah, the joy of no noisy neighbors.
Poolside Paradise and Spa Shenanigans:
Listen, the pool area is gorgeous. And, importantly, it's designed with the "pool with a view" aesthetic in mind. The water sparkled blue, the sun beat down…it was pure bliss.
- Swimming Pool: Multiple pools, including an outdoor one for some serious sun-soaking.
- Spa/Sauna/Steamroom: I spent a glorious afternoon in the spa. Pure decadence. The sauna was hot enough to melt away all your worries, the steam room cleared my sinuses (bonus!), and the massage…oh, the massage.
- Fitness Center/Gym: Okay, I'll be honest. I intended to hit the gym. But the pool, the cocktails…the gym remained sadly unvisited. But, it looked well-equipped.
Food, Glorious Food (and a Few Disasters):
Okay, let's talk food. This is where things got interesting.
- Breakfast (Buffet): The buffet was epic. An Asian breakfast? A Western Breakfast? Check and check. Freshly baked bread, mountains of fruit, and enough Turkish coffee to keep me buzzing for a week.
- Restaurants/Dining: There were a few restaurants, and some with A la carte menus.
- The "Near Disaster" Story: I tried the a la carte restaurant once for dinner. The food? Lovely. The service? Let's just say there was a significant language barrier. I ordered a "mixed grill" and ended up with…something that looked suspiciously like a plate of grilled vegetables. (I'm a meat eater, folks). But it was still tasty, and they were trying their best!
The All-Inclusive Advantage (and the Fine Print):
The Sherwood Premio operates on an all-inclusive model, which has its pros and cons (like all things in life!).
- Pro: Unlimited food, drinks, and snacks. Seriously, you can eat, drink, and be merry all damn day.
- Pro: The pool bar. Need I say more?
- Con: Sometimes the quality of the food varied. But hey, it's a buffet.
- Con: It’s easy to overindulge. My waistline and my credit card both suffered slight casualties.
Things to Do (Beyond the Pool):
- The Beach: The hotel isn't directly on the beach, but a quick shuttle ride gets you there. Absolutely worth it for the crystal-clear water.
- Excursions: The front desk can arrange tours and excursions (again, language barriers may apply, but the staff is generally helpful).
- Shopping: There's a store on site and a few options nearby.
- Happy Hour: Essential.
Cleanliness and Safety – The "Covid Year" Perspective:
This is crucial in today’s world.
- Staff Trained in Safety Protocol: YES.
- Anti-Viral Cleaning Products: Yes.
- Daily Disinfection: Yes.
- Hand Sanitizer: Everywhere. Really, everywhere.
- Safe Dining Setup: They've made changes to the buffets to reduce contact.
- Room Sanitization Opt-Out Available: Because everyone knows what they want.
Service and Staff – The Real Heart of the Hotel:
- The Staff: The staff are mostly wonderful. They're friendly, helpful, and genuinely seem to want you to have a good time.
- Concierge: There's that friendly face there again!
- 24-Hour Front Desk and Security: Always a plus.
- Daily Housekeeping: My room was always spotless.
The "For the Kids" Factor:
- Family/Child Friendly: Absolutely. There's a kids' club, a playground, and plenty of activities to keep the little ones entertained.
- Babysitting Service: An option if you need it.
The Quirks (The Moments That Make It Memorable):
- The Sunset: Seriously, the sunsets over the Mediterranean were beyond breathtaking. Worth the trip alone. I’d wake up every morning when the sun was kissing the horizon, and the sky would be on fire.
- The Language Barrier: Communicating with the staff was the real challenge sometimes, but it just added to the fun. "Do you want… chicken, or vegetable?" "Yes, please."
- The Unexpected Gem: The Sherwood Premio is not a flawless, perfectly polished hotel. It has its quirks. But those quirks, combined with the gorgeous location, genuinely warm staff, and an overall feeling of relaxed enjoyment, are what make it so memorable.
My Verdict (Spoiler Alert: You Can Believe This!):
Look, the Sherwood Premio isn't the most luxurious hotel in Antalya. It's not the fanciest. But it's a fantastic value for money, especially for families or anyone looking for a relaxing, accessible, and genuinely friendly holiday. The location is perfect for getting away from the crowds, the amenities are top-notch, and the staff makes you feel welcome from the moment you arrive.
Is it a "Hidden Gem"? Absolutely. It’s a gem I’d gladly return to.
Here's the Persuasive Offer:
Uncover Your Own Antalya Adventure at Sherwood Premio!
Tired of the same old boring vacations? Craving an escape that blends relaxation, adventure, and a touch of Turkish magic? Then get ready to fall in love with the Sherwood Premio Hotel in Antalya!
Here's what awaits you:
- Unforgettable Views: Wake up to breathtaking Mediterranean sunrises and sunsets. (Trust me, you'll be posting them ALL over Instagram.)
- All-Inclusive Bliss: Enjoy unlimited food, drinks, and snacks – from Turkish delights to international cuisine.
- Relaxation Redefined: Plunge into sparkling pools, unwind in the spa, and let your worries melt away.
- Accessible Excellence: Experience a truly welcoming and inclusive environment with outstanding accessibility features. (Everyone deserves a great vacation!)
- Family Fun: Kids' club, playground, and activities to keep the little ones entertained.
- Escape the Crowds: Enjoy a tranquil location, away from the hustle, but close to all the action.
Limited-Time Offer:
- **Exclusive Discount
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn’t your meticulously planned, colour-coded itinerary. This is me, attempting to wrangle a week at the Sherwood Premio Hotel in Antalya, Turkey, into something resembling a functioning human experience. And knowing me, it's probably going to be a glorious train wreck.
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Buffet Debacle… Mayhem Begins!
- Morning (ish): Landed in Antalya. Let's just say the airline lost my lucky socks. Not a great start, but hey, there's sunshine and turquoise water, so I'm taking a deep breath and channeling my inner zen master. (Spoiler alert: I lasted about 20 minutes.)
- Afternoon: Hotel check-in. The Sherwood Premio? Okay, seems nice enough. Slightly overwhelming, but the lobby is HUGE. Maybe a tad too much gold, but hey, it's Turkey, right? Gotta embrace the bling! First impressions are, that I'm starting to feel the 'holiday-vibe', this place is already starting to feel like a maze. Where are the room cards! Oh Good God, there's a queue.
- Late Afternoon / Pre-Dinner: This is where it went sideways. The buffet. Oh. My. God. The buffet! Initially, it was a sensory overload – mountains of food gleaming under bright lights. Sushi alongside borek? Sure, why not? First plate went down a treat. Second plate, I was already questioning my life choices. Third plate… I think I entered a food coma. The sheer quantity of food was staggering. A man at the next table was wearing a chef's hat and eating everything, that's when I knew I was in serious trouble. And don't even get me started on the dessert section. I wanted to try everything! I'm pretty sure I ate three baklavas, then a weird orange something with custard. This is going to be a disaster.
- Evening: Staggered back to my room, wearing my food coma like a badge of honour. The balcony offers an AMAZING view - beautiful. Managed to drag myself to the bar for a 'digestif'. Let's be honest, it was just a giant glass of wine. Passed out by, uh, 9 pm. Epic fail.
Day 2: Sunscreen Struggles, Poolside Shenanigans, and a Near-Miss with a Seagull
- Morning: Woke up feeling like a beached whale (Buffet, remember?). Slathered on the sunscreen (or so I thought!). Headed to the pool. The pools are stunning! Big, blue, and packed with people already having the time of their lives. Found a sun lounger (victory!).
- Mid-morning: Realized I didn't slather on the sunscreen properly. Red alert! My face is starting to resemble a lobster. Spent the next hour desperately trying to find some aloe vera gel. Found none, I guess I'll just have to peel myself off, literally, at the end of the week.
- Afternoon / Poolside Fun: The hotel has a swim-up bar, which is a dangerous thing to have when you're on vacation (and I'm on vacation). Multiple cocktails later, I was chatting with a group of Brits about the relative merits of different brands of crisps. It was glorious. Saw a seagull trying to steal a sandwich. Almost got it, but was thwarted at the last second. That seagull had serious grit.
- Evening: The hotel's entertainment was… energetic. The acrobatic show was good, if a tad cheesy. The karaoke was, shall we say, an experience. I'm pretty sure I witnessed someone butcher "Bohemian Rhapsody" with a microphone. I'm still not convinced, that's a song that can be sung. Tried to find another digestif - failed, so much for my hopes of a better sleep.
Day 3: Ancient Ruins, Unexpected Meltdowns, and Culinary Redemption (Maybe?)
- Morning: Finally got my act together and went on a day trip to see some Greco-Roman ruins. They were cool. History is cool. But honestly? After the buffet, all the ancient crumbling stones started to look the same.
- Mid-morning: Epic meltdown. Realized I couldn’t remember what day it was. Then, I discovered that my phone charger was missing too. PANIC! Mild irrational anger. Sat on a park bench and sobbed. This trip is a mess.
- Afternoon: Found my phone charger! Bought a replacement one. It was the small victories. Got lunch at a local kebab place. The smell of grilled meat! The fresh bread! Suddenly, everything was right in the world. This was culinary redemption. Oh man, those kebabs. One of the best things I've ever tasted.
- Evening: Dinner at the hotel's Turkish restaurant. Better than the buffet, but still… crowded. Ordered something called “testi kebabı” – meat cooked in a clay pot. Amazing! Seriously, it saved the day. This is what I'm here for.
Day 4: Beach Bumming, Bargain Hunting, and the Reality of Being a Tourist
- Morning: Spent the morning on the beach. The sea is so warm, the sand so soft! Actually managed to relax for a couple of hours. Bliss!
- Mid-morning: The beach vendors. Oh lawd. “Hello, beautiful lady! Do you want massage? Scarves? Fake Rolex?” It was relentless. Had to adopt a steely, "I'm-not-buying-anything-so-leave-me-alone" look. I feel like a seasoned pro.
- Afternoon: Went to the shops. Bargain hunting! Got a (probably fake) Turkish scarf that I'll never wear but will forever remind me of this trip. It feels like a lifetime ago, the reality of being a tourist is starting to dawn on me.
- Evening: Trying the hotel's Italian restaurant. Spaghetti and meatballs. Predictable, but good. Maybe tomorrow, I will attempt something different.
Day 5: A Day of Spa, Seriousness, and the Deepest of Relaxations
- Morning: Today is me time. Booked a massage, the sauna, and a hammam. It was amazing. Pure, unadulterated bliss. I think I almost fell asleep on the massage table. The hammam was the best.
- Afternoon: More pool time, some reading, and a serious nap. This is what a holiday is all about.
- Evening: Started to make my packing plan. I had a flashback of the buffet, and it was a strong, and sudden reminder that this trip is coming to an end. Farewell, my love!
Day 6: Exploring, and the Sadness of Saying Goodbye (Almost!)
- Morning: Decided to leave the hotel and explore. Wandered around the old town, got lost, and stumbled upon a tiny, adorable cafe. Ordered some Turkish coffee and a pastry. This is exactly what I needed.
- Afternoon: Went to the waterfalls. They were nice.
- Evening: Tried to make the most of the last dinner at the hotel. I'm going to miss this place, as much as I said I hated parts of it, I've had a good time (mostly).
Day 7: Departure and a Few Final Thoughts…
- Morning: Last swim. Last breakfast. Last look at the view from my balcony. Goodbye, Turkey!
- Afternoon: Flight home. Reflecting on the chaos and the joy of the last week, the ups and downs of this holiday. This trip showed me! It's been epic.
Okay, so maybe it wasn't the perfectly curated trip I envisioned. There were meltdowns, buffet battles, and plenty of sunburns. But it was also filled with laughter, delicious food, beautiful scenery, and moments of pure relaxation. And that’s what really matters, right? So, should I ever go back? Maybe. But next time, I'm bringing a map, a translator app, and a whole truckload of aloe vera.
Malacca's Netflix-Worthy Attic Studio: Modern Balcony & MLK Views!
Antalya's Hidden Gem: Sherwood Premio Hotel Review (You Won't Believe This!) - FAQ (Get Ready!)
Hold up, Sherwood Premio? Never Heard of it. Where *IS* This Place, Exactly?
Okay, real talk: Before this trip, I was in the same boat. Sherwood Premio? Sounds made up, like a wizarding spell for a subpar hotel. Turns out, it's chilling in Lara, Antalya. Lara's known for its... well, let's just say "interesting" atmosphere (more on that later). You're not smack-dab in the bustling city center, which, for me, was a HUGE win. Less honking, more... well, you'll see.
Think of it as a hidden pocket, a little oasis (maybe a slightly tarnished oasis, but still an oasis!) tucked near the beach. Just prepare for a taxi ride. Everything in Antalya requires a taxi ride. My bank account still hasn't recovered.
So, The Beach... Is it Worth the Hype? Tell Me Everything!
Alright, the beach. This is where things get... complicated. The Premio isn't *directly* on the beach. You're a hop, skip, and a slightly sweaty walk away (or, you know, you can use the shuttle, which is genius). And the beach itself? Beautiful. Absolutely stunning. Soft sand, crystal-clear water. The kind of water that makes you want to chuck your phone in it just to feel how awesome it is.
But (and there's *always* a but, isn't there?), the beach can get CROWDED. Like, shoulder-to-shoulder, towel-to-umbrella crowded. My advice? Get there early. Like, before the sun even thinks about showing up. Otherwise, you're battling for prime real estate with people who seem to think it's their duty to build sandcastle fortresses the size of small houses. And, be warned, the beach vendors... they are relentless. I swear, I was offered a massage every five minutes. I just wanted to read my book in PEACE!
Oh, and the water? Beautiful. Freezing. So, adjust your expectations accordingly.
Let's Talk Food! Was the All-Inclusive Worth It? Did You Survive?
The food... ah, the food. Okay, the all-inclusive situation at Sherwood Premio is, well, an *experience*. It's a buffet, so temper your expectations. But you know what? It was actually PRETTY DECENT. I mean, there were some questionable dishes (mystery meat, anyone?), but overall, I didn't starve. I didn't even get violently ill (which, considering the amount of random pastries I consumed, is a miracle).
The best part? The dessert bar. Seriously. Puddings, cakes, baklava... it was a sugar-fueled paradise. I swear I gained five pounds just *looking* at the dessert options. I may have lost my willpower, but I certainly enjoyed the ride. The worst part? Trying to navigate the buffet rush hour. It’s like Black Friday, but with more lukewarm casseroles.
*And, another thing*: the Turkish coffee. Glorious. Strong enough to wake the dead. Order it. You deserve it.
The Rooms! Were They Actually Stylish? Were They Clean? Did They Have Bedbugs?! (Okay, I'm Dramatic)
Okay, room time. This is where the "hidden gem" tag gets a little... shaky. The rooms? They were... fine. They were clean, which is a major plus, let’s be honest. I did a thorough inspection for bedbugs (paranoid, much?), and thankfully, nothing. The decor? Decidedly not cutting edge. Think slightly dated, functional, and with a definite whiff of "hotel room" (that generic smell of cleaning chemicals and forgotten dreams).
My biggest complaint? The AC. It was either freezing or non-existent. There was no middle ground. One night I woke up shivering, the next, sweating like I'd just run a marathon. I swear, I fiddled with that thermostat for an hour, cursing under my breath. So, pack an extra blanket, and maybe a portable fan, just in case. But hey, the bed was comfy, and that's what matters most, right?
The Pools! Did They Live Up to the Instagram Hype? Were They Actually... Swim-able?
Alright, the pools! This is where the Sherwood Premio actually shines. They've got several, each with its own vibe. The main pool? Big, beautiful, and perfect for a proper swim. The kids' pool? Loud, chaotic, and filled with shrieking children (which, depending on your mood, is either adorable or horrifying).
I spent a fair amount of time lounging by the pool, book in hand, pretending to be a sophisticated traveler (totally failing, by the way). The water was clean, the sun was glorious, and the poolside service was pretty good. They even had a swim-up bar. (Warning: The cocktails are STRONG. I repeat, the cocktails are STRONG.) The only downside? Finding a sunbed that wasn't already "reserved" with a towel at 6 am. People are CRAZY about their sunbeds.
Okay, Fine. But What Did You REALLY Think of the Overall Vibe? Was it... Fun? Relaxing? Or Just... Meh?
Here's the honest truth. The Sherwood Premio? It's not the Ritz. It has its flaws. It has its quirks. And, on a bad day, it might make you want to scream. But, deep down? I loved it.
It wasn't perfect, but it was... real. It was unpretentious. It was filled with normal people having a good time. I spent a week there and felt like I really got away from everything. There were moments of pure bliss (that beach!), moments of frustration (the AC!), and moments of pure, unadulterated laughter (watching the chaotic buffet).
If you're looking for a five-star experience, with zero imperfections, avoid it. If you're looking for a fun, affordable holiday, with a gorgeous beach nearby, give it a shot. I, for one, would go back. In a heartbeat (and I'd pack earplugs for the buffet).
Do You Have Any Hidden Gems of Your Own That You Discovered around the hotel? Like, a Specific Cafe or Restaurant?
Okay, this is where I confess my complete and utter failure to be a sophisticated traveler. I spent most of the time at the resort! Honestly, the idea of going outside… well, let’s just say that after a week of all-inclusive, the thought of navigating a foreign city, and attempting to order food in a language I barely understood, was just too stressful.
I did, however, manage to stumble upon a small kebab place about a ten-minute walk from the hotel. Don’t ask me the name - it was in Turkish, and I was too busy inhaling delicious grilled meats to pay attentionTop Hotel Search
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