Review: Susona Bodrum LXR Hotels & Resorts

Why book? Taking its name from the mystical mermaid creature in Turkish mythology, Susona Bodrum resort takes all its inspiration from the sea. From its sleek, futuristic-looking buildings to the plush seaside lounges, private plunge pools, and wooden jetties, it’s a coastal oasis that complements its natural surroundings.

Set the scene Located on a calm bay on the Bodrum Peninsula, the resort faces the sparkling Aegean Sea. The discrete architectural structure resembling a water drop and the Mediterranean style of the white-washed, tiered buildings are designed to remind guests of the ocean at every turn. While the first impression might be yet another glamorous hangout on the Turquoise Coast, Susona is far more laid-back and unpretentious than many of its neighbors—without sacrificing an ounce of class. The resort aims to please both full-throttle active travelers and those in relaxation mode. Hop with ease between water sports from the pier and workouts in the onsite Tone Gym to indulging in a poolside cocktail or a rejuvenating spa treatment. It strikes an even balance of families and romantic couples, with the freedom to enjoy complete seclusion or join in the activities and party vibe in the central common areas. While certainly leaning to a more relaxed glamor style, it’s the kind of atmosphere where switching from a swimsuit to workout gear to classy designer evening wear is not met with any judgment.

The backstory Susona Bodrum is part of Hilton’s luxe brand, LXR Hotels & Resorts—an exclusive collection of high-end hotels and resorts around the world. The brand was launched in 2018, with the Susona Bodrum being the fourth addition to its offerings in 2020 when it replaced the former Nikki Beach Resort, which had been a popular hangout spot of a younger crowd. It has since been transformed into a cool and composed lodging option with the signature high standards of the LXR identity.

The rooms The collection of 70 rooms and villas are spread out amongst gardens of palm and fruit trees and private beach-access walkways. Filled with the salty sea breeze, the rooms take plenty of inspiration from their surroundings. Light color tones dominate the decor of whites, beige, and pastels resembling the coastal scene. There’s plenty of natural light pouring through the ocean-facing windows, with large mirrors strategically placed to allow the sunlight to bounce around the room. The sleek, modern furniture is ergonomic, with rounded edges and imperfect shapes maximizing comfort and design. All rooms and villas include top-notch amenities with Nespresso machines, entertainment media hubs, plush beds, and walk-through wardrobes. The highlight of the spacious ensuite bathrooms, however, is undoubtedly the free-standing window-side bathtubs that provide private relaxation with a view. The top-priced suites and villas have all the extra room, plus ocean-facing private pools and outdoor loungers for sun basking in peace. But the standard rooms are still nothing to scoff at, with spacious balconies and outdoor furniture for a sunset outpost looking towards the bay.

Food and drink The central structure in the resort houses the two main restaurants, both offering indoor and outdoor seating: Nicely complementing each other, MALVA is a formal dining affair, while Ezi is slightly more laidback. The restaurants prove that the resort’s landscape is more than decorative; olives and pomegranates strewn about the property are harvested for everything from smooth salad dressings to bright meat dishes. Ideal for a filling breakfast or casual dinner, Ezi Restaurant features cozy lounges and outdoor tables overlooking the infinity pool. The menu encourages a health kick, featuring local organic produce and vegan delicacies from smoothies to inventive salad bowls. For an evening, the place to be is undoubtedly MALVA: Slow cooked meats, freshly grilled seafood, and zesty salads inspired by the Aegean region are served against the twinkling lights across the bay. Linger a little longer and pick a creative cocktail from the bar while the live entertainment starts heating up. There are frequent jazz, soft funk, blues, and DJ performances.

Frankie Beach Club is the perfect corner for an endless summer vibe: a sophisticated whitewashed pool with tiki accents and a cabana-studded pier set the scene while a soundtrack of live mellow music lures sunbathers from their lounge chairs into the pool. Fresh, locally-sourced Aegean fare is served poolside, featuring paella, sliders, and salads. Plus, a homemade ice cream bar serves scoops like fig sorbet, Datca almond ice cream, and zero-sugar ginger basil.

Come evening, the crowd migrates to Nama Sushi & Raw Bar, where expertly-sliced sashimi and inventive rolls serve as the ideal dish while watching the sunset from the restaurant's sweeping terrace. Local fish like sea bass sashimi compliment international classics like spicy tuna rolls—don't forget to pair it with a crafted cocktail.

The spa The Spa by Spa Soul at Susona Bodrum is the epitome of relaxation. Blending traditional Turkish practices with modern techniques from around the world, there are a variety of treatments available for guests. The traditional hammam offers body scrubs and foam massages with the benefits of argan oil, shea butter, and honey. The classic massage menu is extensive— with everything from deep tissue therapies to volcanic heated stones. For those that want to extend their well-being journey further, the spa also offers private yoga and meditation sessions, with the rising sun led by experienced teachers.

The neighborhood/area Located in the Torba area of the Bodrum Peninsula, away from the bustling city center, the resort occupies a serene setting. Backed by the forest and hills separating Torba from Bodrum, it’s easy to feel a world away from any major urban area. With only a string of other hotels and resorts around the calm cove, it’s easy to make use of the secluded wooden jetties and sun decks, private beach access, and panoramic views when you want to avoid any distractions. For those who still want to dive into vibrant bars and enjoy some retail therapy, Bodrum is six miles away, as are the ancient ruins and archaeology museums of the Aegean Coast, which make for great day trips for history buffs.

The service Turkish hospitality is on full display from arrival. A welcome drink and introduction to all that the resort offers sets guests up well from the beginning. Staff are intentional and friendly, without imposing on anyone. It’s not uncommon for guests to be on a first-name basis with the concierge at the end of their stay. Extras like a private boat transfer, complimentary valet parking, and prompt room service make the staff hard to fault.

For families While at first glance, the resort may appear targeted for romantic getaways, this is not necessarily the case. It caters for couples as well as families, with plenty of activities and services to keep the kids busy. There’s a narrow Family Beach in front of the resort, which is peppered with sun loungers and waterside jetties to dive off into the glittering water. There’s also a tennis court, water sport rentals, and a creativity-focused kid’s club that caters to energetic little ones.

Eco effort Every aspect of the resort prioritizes “local” as much as possible. The materials used in the construction and design of the buildings were locally quarried stone and sustainably sourced timber from regional industries. But where the resort’s eco effort really shines is the food and produce space. The property has its own organic herb garden for adding garnishes to meals, while the fruit, vegetables, fish, and meat are all sourced from farmers markets. It’s obvious just by looking at the menu that the focus is on sustainable practices with vegan options, free-range chicken, and seasonally changing dishes depending on what’s available. A refreshing addition is also the encouragement of recycling, with separate bins available around the resort and in rooms. But there’s minimal single-use plastic to begin with, considering glass is favored within much of the in-room mini bars.

Accessibility There are accessible ramps allowing wheelchair accessibility throughout the resort. There are also additional standards in the accessible guest rooms, including lowered light switches, lowered toilets, roll-in showers, and large-print menus at the restaurants. Support animals are also welcome.

Anything left to mention? Perhaps something that isn’t advertised enough about Susona Bodrum Resort are the unique day trips on offer. As well as the usual Bodrum city tours, there are special farmers market visits with the Head Chef, where guests can see firsthand the local produce hand picked for the kitchen. There’s also a local artisan experience, where you can visit workshops in Bodrum to learn how the area's famous leather sandals are made.