The Epicurean Aegean Journey 12 Days

You will be welcomed by the guide and driver at the hotel in Istanbul in the morning and driven with a private luxury vehicle to Çanakkale. Along the scenic route, curated stops at select local farms and shops provide the opportunity to savor the region’s finest delicacies, including seasonal fruits, cheeses, and traditional pastries.

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed at the Caeli & Caeli Hotel, a distinguished property renowned for its blend of contemporary luxury and artistic ambiance. The afternoon features a private wine tasting session, led by a sommelier, showcasing premium local labels. Following this, a guided tour of the hotel’s modern art collection provides an intimate exploration of curated works by prominent Turkish and international artists, combining cultural enrichment with refined leisure.

Optional Activity: Truffle & Wild Mushroom Hunting in Thrace

Guided by expert foragers and their specially trained dogs, you may explore the lush forests of Thrace in search of the region’s truffles and seasonal wild mushrooms. This immersive experience, available from late autumn through early spring (November to March), offers the thrill of the hunt together with a deep connection to local culinary heritage. Conclude the morning with a private tasting of freshly foraged truffles and mushrooms, expertly prepared by a local chef, paired with premium regional wines, making this a truly unforgettable gastronomic journey.

The day is completed with dinner at the hotel, representing the fusion Turkish cuisine.

Today's total driving distance is 330 km (4.5 hours)

Overnight: Çanakkale

Meals Included: Regional Delicacies, Wine tasting with appetizers, Dinner

The day at leisure at the hotel. During your stay, you are invited to enjoy a selection of optional experiences thoughtfully offered by the estate.

Optional Activities at the hotel:

You may begin your day with a privately guided bicycle tour through the château grounds and surrounding vineyards, gently exploring scenic estate paths while admiring panoramic views of rolling hills and meticulously tended grapevines.

For moments of pure relaxation, the spa welcomes you with bespoke treatments inspired by the vineyard itself. Indulge in nourishing oils, scrubs, and masks crafted from the estate’s own grapes, where wellness rituals are infused with the essence and character of the terroir.

If you seek a more holistic approach to wellbeing, you may join sunrise or sunset yoga sessions set among the tranquil vineyards. Led by expert instructors, these sessions focus on balance, mindful movement, and breath, allowing you to reconnect with nature in an exceptionally serene setting.

You may also choose to immerse yourself in the traditions of the vineyard with a hands-on grape harvesting experience, where you will learn time-honored techniques while carefully selecting the finest grapes, gaining a deeper appreciation of the estate’s winemaking heritage.

Overnight: Çanakkale

Meals Included: Breakfast

The day will start with the chauffeured transfer to Urla along scenic coastal roads.

Optional Activity: Ancient City of Troy

Step into the legend of Ancient Troy on a private, guided tour that brings history to life in unparalleled comfort. Explore the iconic ruins, including the fabled city walls and the replica of the Trojan Horse, while the archaeologist guide shares captivating stories of mythology, war, and civilization.

The day is devoted to the refined gastronomic heritage of the Urla region, celebrated as one of Türkiye’s foremost destinations for fine dining and sustainable cuisine.

At the heart of this culinary journey is a late lunch at OD Urla, an iconic restaurant founded by Chef Osman Sezener, a pioneer of the farm-to-table philosophy in the Aegean. Set within a vineyard estate, OD Urla is deeply rooted in local tradition, drawing inspiration from ancient Anatolian recipes while embracing contemporary techniques. Enjoy a carefully curated tasting experience that reflects Urla’s terroir, paired with select regional wines.

After lunch proceed with the ride to Key Urla Hotel for the overnight stay.

Today's total driving distance is 450 km (6.5 hours)

Overnight: Urla

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning at leisure at the hotel.

You will be picked up in the afternoon for a private transfer to the nearby town of Alaçatı, one of the Aegean’s most elegant and sought-after destinations. Upon arrival, a guided stroll through the town’s historic cobblestone streets introduces its beautifully restored stone houses, boutique hotels, and charming courtyards that reflect Alaçatı’s rich architectural heritage. The experience includes curated visits to local designer boutiques, artisanal jewelry and linen shops, local ceramic ateliers, and exclusive concept stores offering olive-oil-based cosmetics and handcrafted home décor.

The itinerary continues with time at leisure in Alaçatı and the refined gastronomic interlude at Vino Locale Urla, a distinguished wine-focused venue renowned for its carefully curated selection of regional and international labels. Enjoy a tasting session, accompanied by gourmet bites that highlight local flavours, offering an elegant introduction to Urla’s celebrated wine culture.

The day completes with a return to the hotel for the overnight stay.

Today's total driving distance is 100 km (1.5 hours).

Overnight: Urla

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Morning departure on an inspiring journey to two of the Aegean’s most evocative landmarks. The day begins with an optional guided visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a revered pilgrimage site nestled in the tranquil hills above Ephesus, where you can enjoy a moment of reflection in a serene and spiritually significant setting.

The experience continues to the charming village of Şirince, celebrated for its beautifully preserved stone houses, cobbled streets, and artisanal traditions. Here, explore selected boutique shops and enjoy time at leisure to discover local crafts, handmade products, and the village’s renowned fruit wines.

Optional Activity: Ancient City of Ephesus

Ephesus is one of the largest and most well-preserved ancient cities in the world. Stroll along its marble avenues to admire iconic landmarks such as the Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, and Terrace Houses, where intricate mosaics and frescoes reveal the refined lifestyle of the Roman elite. With commentary from a specialist guide and a relaxed, bespoke pace, guests gain deeper insight into the city’s historical, and architectural significance.

In the afternoon, the route leads to the Bodrum Peninsula for a stay at Amanruya, an exclusive sanctuary renowned for its understated elegance and exceptional privacy. Set amid olive groves and overlooking the Aegean Sea, Amanruya offers a refined blend of contemporary design and traditional Anatolian architecture. Upon arrival at the hotel, unwind in your private pavilion, enjoy personalized service, and savor a tranquil evening surrounded by nature.

Today's total driving distance is 350 km (5.5 hours )

Overnight: Bodrum

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

The day begins with a guided visit to Bodrum Castle and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, offering privileged insight into the region’s maritime heritage. This is followed by a joyful walk through Bodrum’s old town.

The day continues with  a scenic drive past Bodrum’s historic windmills, offering panoramic views over the twin bays, before arriving at the Yalikavak area for leisure and shopping time at Yalikavak harbour.

The day completes with the dinner at legendary Maçakızı and return to the hotel in the evening.

Today's total driving distance is 65 km (2.5 hours).

Overnight: Bodrum

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The day at leisure at the hotel.

You are invited to relax at your own pace, whether indulging in the spa and wellness facilities, enjoying the private beach or pool, or simply unwinding in the privacy of their suite. Throughout the day, a dedicated luxury vehicle and professional guide remain at your full disposal, allowing for spontaneous outings or dining arrangements.

Overnight: Bodrum

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a joyful and relaxed morning, you will be transferred to the port of Bodrum to embark on the private Gulet cruise along the Aegean coastline.  The journey begins with a leisurely sail along the Bodrum Peninsula, offering breathtaking vistas of turquoise waters and rugged cliffs. The gulet then anchors in a secluded cove, providing the perfect setting for a first swim in crystal-clear waters.

The afternoon is devoted to complete relaxation on deck, where you may bask in the sun, enjoy personalized service, or simply take in the serene surroundings. As the day draws to a close, a sunset aperitif is served, followed by a gourmet dinner crafted by the onboard chef, featuring the finest local ingredients and delicacies. Overnight stop in the tranquil bay.

Overnight: Private Gulet

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast on the deck, the gulet sails to Orak Island, renowned for its vivid turquoise sea. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply sunbathing in complete privacy. Lunch is served on board, followed by an afternoon cruise to a quiet bay. The evening features a gourmet dinner under the stars.

Overnight: Private Gulet

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

The morning begins with a gentle cruise to Çökertme, a traditional fishing village on the Gulf of Gökova. You may go ashore for a short, guided walk through the village, explore local handicraft shops, or enjoy a coffee at a seaside café. After lunch on board, the gulet continues to a nearby bay for swimming and relaxation. Dinner is served either on board or, upon request, at a select local restaurant.

Overnight: Private Gulet

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, sail to Karacasöğüt, a charming harbour surrounded by pine forests. Relax on board, swim, or take a short optional excursion inland. The afternoon is dedicated to leisure, with cocktails served on the deck as the sun sets. A gourmet dinner concludes the day, with overnight anchorage in the bay.

Overnight: Private Gulet

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy a final breakfast on deck as the gulet makes its gentle return to Bodrum Harbour. Guests disembark at the harbour for the transfer to Bodrum airport for the return flight to Istanbul.

Overnight: None

Meals Included: Breakfast