Olive, Fig and Grapevine Houses of Sirince.
Turkey
For a cosy holiday home with lots of character, book into one of the Terrace Houses, three 19th-century cottages in the hill town of Sirince, six miles from Ephesus. The little buildings have been carefully renovated with reclaimed marble basins, wooden sleigh beds and lovely lighting, including Chinese lanterns and wrought-iron chandeliers. A week in peak season costs £630, accommodation only, for a cottage sleeping up to four, with a local gift, for i-escape guests (i-escape.com/terracehouses.php ).
The Ettena Hotel on Cirali beach, with its enviable seafront position and eco-credentials, is an opportunity to enjoy a guilt-free holiday. Nuzzle up to nature in one of the 10 simple wooden chalets, and enjoy al-fresco breakfast buffets and dinners by candlelight (so as not to disturb the turtles that use the beach). Seven nights’ half-board, based on two sharing, cost £348 per person throughout July and August with Journey Anatolia (020 8761 5605; journeyanatolia.com ). Flights cost extra.
The INDEPENDENT EUROPE this year
