Tucked into the secluded coastline of Antalya, Bijal Resort redefines luxury in a setting that feels both exclusive and comfortably relaxed. Surrounded by lush greenery and sweeping Mediterranean skies, Bijal invites travellers to immerse themselves in refined comfort, with a focus on elegant simplicity and a strong sense of place.
As part of the prestigious JOALI family, Bijal brings a similar ethos of understated luxury, seamless design, and meticulous attention to detail that has made its sister properties in the Maldives – JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING – icons of wellness and experiential travel.
Hotel
With its foundation rooted in the values of the renowned JOALI brand, Bijal Resort brings a unique blend of luxury, sustainability, and experiential travel to Türkiye. Known for their wellness-focused resorts, JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING have set an industry standard in mindful, eco-friendly hospitality. Bijal extends this legacy to the Mediterranean, offering guests a similarly immersive experience that honours local culture and natural beauty while providing the utmost in luxury.
The JOALI connection means that guests at Bijal can expect world-class service and a dedication to creating meaningful, personalised experiences. From the spa treatments that draw on local ingredients to the thoughtfully designed villas that blend elegance with sustainability, Bijal Resort offers a level of refinement that will feel familiar to JOALI’s devotees. This harmonious integration of luxury, cultural appreciation, and eco-conscious design sets Bijal apart as one of Türkiye’s most distinctive luxury retreats.
Bijal’s location near Side, Antalya, offers a rare combination of historical richness and natural beauty. Set within private grounds fringed by lush gardens, the resort is near some of Türkiye’s most revered ancient sites, yet maintains an atmosphere of serene seclusion. The drive from Antalya Airport is both scenic and convenient, making Bijal Resort feel like an accessible escape without sacrificing its secluded charm.
Room
At the heart of Bijal Resort’s allure are its 19 villas, each one crafted with supreme luxury and an emphasis on warm, understated elegance. Created by the same renowned designers behind the interiors of JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING, these villas have an aesthetic that feels both opulent and inviting. Soft, warm pastels – like dusky pinks, pale earth tones, and gentle greys – combine with natural textures and plush furnishings, creating an ambience of pure relaxation. The design choices reflect a commitment to luxurious living without pretension; every detail, from the sumptuous fabrics to the artisanal touches, speaks to comfort and refinement.
Each villa is a private sanctuary, with large heated pools nestled within expansive, flower-filled gardens. The private outdoor areas are thoughtfully curated, allowing guests to indulge in their own personal oasis. Fragrant blooms, native herbs, and fruit trees adorn the gardens, adding a touch of vibrant colour and a lovely sensory experience. The inclusion of lime trees allows guests the simple pleasure of picking fresh limes for their cocktails or enjoying the scent of citrus mingling with the Mediterranean air – a thoughtful nod to the resort’s commitment to creating immersive experiences rooted in nature.
The interiors continue this theme of refined, nature-inspired luxury. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the views of the private gardens, filling the rooms with soft, natural light and creating a harmonious blend between indoor and outdoor spaces. Custom-designed furniture and local artwork grace the rooms, adding unique character while maintaining a coherent aesthetic that speaks to Bijal’s dedication to authentic, site-specific luxury. State-of-the-art amenities, from smart climate controls to high-end toiletries, ensure that every comfort is considered.
For larger families or groups, the three- and four-bedroom villas provide ample space without sacrificing the intimate feel of a private retreat. Whether lounging in the sunlit living areas, taking a quiet moment in the garden, or luxuriating in the private pool, guests can savour the sense of tranquillity and exclusivity that Bijal’s villas are designed to offer.
Food and drink
Bijal’s dining experience is a celebration of Türkiye’s vibrant culinary heritage, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and Mediterranean flair. The resort’s main restaurant serves an inventive selection of dishes that change with the seasons, highlighting the best of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Guests can indulge in freshly caught seafood, organic produce from local farms, and handcrafted pastas and breads, with an array of vegan and vegetarian options thoughtfully incorporated into the menu.
Each meal is an occasion at Bijal, from the abundant breakfasts featuring Turkish specialities like honey-soaked baklava and hand-rolled pastries, to the elegant evening meals where guests are treated to beautifully presented tasting menus. The Coral Bar, located next to the pool, offers a curated selection of Turkish wines, signature cocktails, and fresh-pressed juices that can be enjoyed against the backdrop of the setting sun. Every detail of the dining experience, from the sourcing of ingredients to the thoughtful menu creation, reflects Bijal’s dedication to sustainability and culinary excellence.
Spa and wellness
At the Bijal Spa, wellness is woven into every aspect of the guest experience. Drawing on the traditions of Turkish wellness culture, the spa offers a range of treatments that combine ancient techniques with modern relaxation practices. The signature Bijal Hamam experience is a highlight, offering a luxurious, authentic Turkish bath ritual that includes a gentle exfoliation, aromatherapy, and a soothing massage.
The resort’s commitment to wellness extends beyond the spa itself. Guests seeking a more active retreat can take advantage of the well-equipped fitness centre or join in on beachside yoga and Pilates classes, which are available daily. Expert trainers and wellness consultants are on hand to design tailored programmes, ensuring that each guest’s journey to relaxation or fitness is unique and fulfilling.
As a member of the prestigious JOALI family, Bijal inherits the wellness and eco-conscious philosophy that has made JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING sought-after destinations for luxury travellers. Much like its Maldivian counterparts, Bijal integrates this ethos throughout its spa and wellness programmes, aiming to create a holistic experience that harmonises mind, body, and spirit in Türkiye’s breath-taking Mediterranean landscape.
To do
Bijal’s activity offerings are as varied as they are engaging, with a strong focus on both relaxation and exploration. For history enthusiasts, the resort provides guided tours to iconic sites such as the ancient ruins of Side and the famous Aspendos amphitheatre, giving guests a chance to explore Türkiye’s storied past with knowledgeable guides.
Water activities abound for those who enjoy a more active holiday. Guests can paddleboard, snorkel, or take advantage of the yacht excursions organised by Bijal’s dedicated concierge team, allowing them to experience Türkiye’s Turquoise Coast from a unique perspective. Tailored itineraries ensure that every guest finds activities to match their interests, whether it’s an art-focused tour of the nearby galleries or a nature walk through the surrounding hills.
Bijal’s Art House offers curated exhibitions featuring works from both local and international artists, creating a space for cultural appreciation right within the resort’s grounds. The Beach Library is another thoughtful touch, offering guests a selection of books and magazines to enjoy while lounging by the pool or in the comfort of their villa. Younger guests are equally well catered to with the Kids House, where a range of supervised activities – from mini archaeology digs to nature-focused crafts – keep children entertained and engaged.
In a nutshell
Bijal Resort is a destination of choice for travellers who value sophistication without ostentation. It captures the essence of Turkish luxury in a peaceful and unspoiled setting, offering an escape where every detail has been crafted with care. From the beautifully designed villas to the immersive wellness experiences, Bijal provides a holistic approach to luxury travel, echoing the values of the JOALI brand while embracing Türkiye’s rich cultural landscape.
Factbox
Address: Acısu Mevkii, Adnan Menderes Blv. 26/A, Side, Manavgat, Antalya, Turkey
Phone: +90 242 753 68 68
Website: bijal.com.tr
Resort photography courtesy of Bijal Resort.
