Kibala Hotel and its hospitable owner Bulent made our long weekend in Cirali perfect. The large bungalows are spaced out across a lush green space with orange and lemon trees, treehouses, and a vegetable garden. It feels like paradise, even before you walk the 10 minutes to the gorgeous beach and ruins of Olympos. Bulent took wonderful care of my friends and I over the long weekend. The Turkish breakfast he served every day was incredible, complete with homemade olives and pickles, fresh cheeses and breads, homemade preserves, made-to-order eggs, and fresh flowers on the table. His dinners were even better and a steal for the (very low) fixed price-- grilled fish, fresh vegetables from the garden, wonderful soups, and baklava. He has a great selection of affordable Turkish wines too.
When my friends and I hiked up to the flame of Chimaera and it began pouring rain, Bulent drove out to the trailhead of his own initiative and picked us up, saving us the cold, wet walk home. He told us about the best hikes in the area, and even led us on a hike through wildflower meadows to a beautiful gorge. While he might not have the time to lead hikes in the peak of summer (we visited in the off-season), he brings that level of care and attention to every element of the stay. He also had fantastic music from all corners of the world playing in the lodge, such a refreshing change from the muzak played in so many tourist haunts. I wouldn't stay anywhere else in Cirali; Kibala feels heavenly.