Karpaz Gate Marina Resort, North Cyprus

Set in its own secluded bay, the award-winning international marina resort is home to a unique hotel which offers an experience akin to staying onboard a glamorous supersized sailing yacht. Imaginatively designed by the Israeli Feigin Architects and Turkish Metex Design Group, the Karpaz Gate Marina Resort opened in 2021 to discerning guests seeking a remote and relaxing nautical-inspired getaway.

North Cyprus’ First International Yacht Marina

With a position overlooking a ground-breaking marina, the 52-bedroom boutique hotel reflects the ambience of its setting, with an ocean theme that runs both inside and out (think teak deck floors and white-washed wooded ceilings). Found on the northern shores of Cyprus’ northeastern peninsula, the marina is surrounded by unspoilt scenery and rural landscape, home to wildlife including donkeys and turtles. Since its opening twelve years ago, Karpaz Gate Marina has become a go-to for the global sailing community, welcoming superyachts and yachts from across the world.

Guests of the hotel can watch these elegant vessels coming and going, by booking one of the marina-facing balconied rooms (bedroom categories comprise 44 x 32 square metre standard cabins, four family corner cabins with two ensuite bedrooms and four 58 square metre suite cabins, with the option of either marina, sea or garden views from the terrace or balcony).

The Beach Club

Wander down to the promenade, where you’ll find the Karpaz Gate Marina Hotel’s very own exclusive Beach Club, a brief stroll away from the hotel complex. A sandy enclave for castle-building, water sports, swimming and sunbathing,. There’s a 33-metre infinity pool with muslin-slung four-poster daybeds and loungers and a separate children’s pool. A water float lies just off the beach in the sea and there are kayaks and paddleboards available for those wishing to get active on the water. Enjoy some beach time and when you get peckish, you can order salads, pizzas, pasta and grilled dishes, alongside cocktails, from the Beach Bar. The Beach Club is a real barefoot luxury experience for all ages, available from April to October each year. The marina basin can be enjoyed as an aquarium and kids will especially love spending time watching from the promenade the fish swim through the crystal clear waters.

Hemingway’s

Meals from early morning to late into the night are available at Hemingway’s Resto-Bar. Set on the promenade, the relaxed eatery has a fantastic outlook. Tuck into classic Cypriot and international dishes a la carte, or book a seat for The Chef’s Table experience for a sublime and personalised culinary experience. The hotel’s kitchen garden and greenhouse are a bountiful source of super fresh vegetables and herbs, providing a garden-to-plate dining experience. Hemingway’s is named after the US author Ernest, who was famed for his novel, The Old Man and the Sea. Guests can also catch regular live music here over dinner and drinks. Or if you just want to grab and go, you can visit the marina’s Market, for edibles, gifts and any practical necessities you may require.

The Gallery

In 2022 Karpaz Gate Marina added The Gallery and the Hamam+. The Gallery’s wellness facility is available only to those staying at the hotel or at the marina. Like the rest of the property, The Gallery sports its signature maritime theme in the design. A 20-metre x 4-metre indoor pool and jacuzzi, with chairs for poolside lounging and shower/changing amenities. Next door to this, you’ll find a gym. With views of the marina and promenade available throughout The Gallery, you can observe the marina’s activity as you work out, or wind down.

The Hamam+, is the Spa, at its core lies the hammam; a traditional bathhouse enabling guests to experience an authentic Turkish detox experience in modern comfort, with the option of pampering exfoliating therapies in situ, such as the Sultan Treatment. Single and double treatment rooms cater for dreamy hands-on therapies, ranging from reflexology to Swedish massage and body rituals.

Along the promenade, you will find the fitness studio for yoga, dance and even a Pilates bed for a private session.

A Remote Setting To Recharge

While Cyprus is most firmly on the tourist map, you’ll find the Karpaz Peninsula to be remarkably unknown, unvisited and unspoilt by mainstream tourism — ideal if you need to escape awhile. Indeed, its tip is a protected natural heritage area and the region boasts around 50 sandy beaches, including Cyprus’ most remote, Golden Beach. Take advantage of this scenery with a sailing course (there’s a Royal Yachting Association Training Centre onsite) or by chartering a boat to explore entirely on your terms. The Karpaz Gate Marina Resort has gone to lengths to ensure it doesn’t create a negative impact on the surrounding environment, implementing eco-practices and installing a solar energy system.

Retreat and Explore

Indeed, you can choose to do as little or as much as you like here. And should you feel the need for a more in-depth retreat experience, the hotel provides bespoke packages with the option of focusing on wellness, food and drink or golf. If you fancy learning a little about Karpasia’s history, you can visit Kantara Castle, Apostolos Andreas Monastery and the ruins of Agia Trias Basilica. Transport is available to guests to some local points of interest. Hiking and biking trips and jeep tours can also be arranged by the in-house concierge.

A stay at Karpaz Gate Marina Resort is all about freedom and with an ambience well suited to relaxation, you’re sure to return home refreshed and replenished.

Find out more and book your holiday in this charming pocket of Northern Cyprus.