note on the article: This article is about old Sumahan that has been completely transformed after Vakko Group took its management. The new Sumahan opened its doors in November 2024.
Sumahan on the Water
The hotel calls itself Sumahan ‘on the water’ and it is literally a hotel located so close to the sea that you inevitably feel ‘on the water’.
If you are looking for a refuge away from the chaos of Istanbul and want to be ‘close’ to this sea, this is the place to stay. It only has 13 rooms all overlooking one of the best views of the Bosphorus which give you a sense of floating on the water. It is elevating.
Ironically this beautiful building used to be a factory of ‘suma’ an ingredient used for making ‘raki’ which is a special Turkish alcoholic beverage. The building was beautifully renovated by the owners who are architects themselves.
What I really like about the hotel is its sense of seclusion from the chaos of the city. There are no crowds here, no noise, no tension. One can feel the tranquility of the city which it once had so it is like being transported to a time in history where it was all peaceful and with a slower pace.
Some rooms have their own fire places, others have a small personal hammam but all are decorated with a calm, minimalistic style. There is no clutter in the rooms. Two level loft suites have French doors that open to the Bosphorus side garden.
The hotel is located on the Anatolian side away from most of the historical sites so it has a boat that takes you to and from the European side.
It has a lovely restaurant by the sea side with a special menu which allows you to taste local cuisine.
The hotel also have a small spa for those who are seeking to relax in its hammam or take a massage treatment.
The hotel is also a wonderful choice for special days such as weddings.
So do yourself a favour and consider staying here if you ever pay a visit to this glorious city and enjoy Istanbul at its best.
Visit the hotel’s website at https://www.sumahan.com/
