Royal Uzungöl is likely the best hotel in Uzungöl, where chalet meets the Middle East. Certain aspects of the property decor from the woodwork, the art, the natural stone on the staircase, the paintings, the seating area by the front desk, give it a lovely vibe and potential to perhaps one day be a 5 star. We appreciated the buffet breakfast, our waiter during dinner, the front desk staff and baggage handlers. However, the property has clearly aged, and we note the following shortcomings: the air conditioning in our room was non-existent and judging by one other mobile A/C unit in the hallway, we were not alone. Also there were leaks from the ceiling in two spots in the breakfast area; our bed was uncomfortable with a divide where two single beds were pushed together to make a double (one of which overhung the bed frame which was too small); the room was very small, tight for two people; and there was no notice prior to booking, on the daily gender restrictions for the pool/sauna given their focus on a devout Muslim clientele. Finally, it has to be said that while the town of Uzungöl has some breathtaking views of mountains, lake and forest, over development and poor management of the area has left it overrun with tourists and three-star hotels and restaurants, unkept streets and in places garbage in the water. As a result, its serenity and natural beauty is a fraction of its potential, and we wish we had stayed only one night.
