Tie the knot in the blissful Bodrum beside the turquoise Aegean Sea

Contemporary design meets timeless romance at the Turkish Riviera’s most exclusive destination, Caresse, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Bodrum

–Imagine being wed beside the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, the scent of citrus fruit wafting in the air? This vision could become reality with a dream destination wedding at Caresse, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Bodrum.

The contemporary, design-led property is a peaceful hideaway, sited on a peninsula overlooking the historic Turkish former fishing village. Yet its tranquil nature belies the vibrancy of the locale, an upscale resort with pulsating nightlife, gourmet restaurants and upscale fashion boutiques in abundance.

“Destination weddings are a growing trend in Turkey, as couples opt for venues that offer both indoor and alfresco facilities,” says General ManagerMakis Antonatos.

“Bodrum’s Mediterranean climate makes our venue particularly popular for outdoor ceremonies, while the indoor facilities offer greater versatility and reassurance on the rare days when we experience inclement weather.”

Couples and, increasingly, guests who travel from abroad to attend weddings typically take the opportunity to extend their stay before or after the wedding dates and turn the occasion into a holiday, Antonatos says, adding that Caresse, Bodrum’s concierge can craft bespoke itineraries for wedding guests, who may arrive from afar with a limited awareness of the area’s many attractions. Whether they wish to explore the spectacular World Heritage Site of Halicarnassus, hit the hottest nightspots or take a class in Turkish cookery, help is at hand to help them make the most of their visit.

For that extra-special touch, airport transfers by luxury car – and even helicopter – can be arranged, as can moorings for yachts. Some couples time their nuptials to coincide with local celebrations, such as live music events such as the Chill-Out Festival, which will run from 20 to 21 July.

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Close to one of Turkey’s most intoxicating towns yet tucked away on a secluded peninsula, the stunning venue’s accommodation includes 67 rooms, nine suites and the cavernous Caresse King Villa, each offering ocean views from its private balcony or terrace.

The resort hosted a record number of weddings last year and is being inundated with enquiries this spring. Falling within the same price bracket as many indoor-only properties at the luxury end of the market, its private beach, moorings and three outdoor terraces make it a versatile and enticing proposition.

“We will have a presence at several high-end bridal fairs and plan to invite elite wedding planners to our property to showcase Bodrum’s amazing atmosphere,” Antonatos adds.