A multicoloured welcome from dancing water fountains. The world’s largest outdoor swimming pool, extending across more than 16,000 square metres. Ornate Sistine Chapel-like illustrations on the foyer ceiling. Complimentary toiletries from Hermès. The ultimate in opulence is the best way to describe Mardan Palace, a reflection of Turkey’s glorious architectural and cultural heritage.

Situated on the shores of the Mediterranean outside Antalya, the Mardan Palace evokes the lavish spirit immortalised in some of Turkey’s most famous landmarks – faithful recreations of the Maiden’s Tower of the Bosphorus and the Galata Bridge; an exterior that imitates the sparkling gold of Istanbul’s Kuleli academy; a vast foyer based on the magnificent Dolmabahce Palace. Even the entrance to the Mardan Palace is lined with railings of shimmering white and gold, again recalling the imposing exterior of the Dolmabahce.

The pool is dwarfed only by the Mediterranean itself, lapping against the hotel’s private sandy beach, from which piers of teak decking extend elegantly into the sea. Experience the regal life – Turkish gondola-like caiques cruise between pools, gardens, beach and buildings, taking you from one place to the next on this enormous property.

An experience fit for kings, the Swim Reef is a spectacle in itself– a huge pool area where you can actually swim safely among more than 2,500 species of fish, including the graceful and gentle eagle rays and brown rays.

Among the ten restaurants is a brasserie, featuring a buffet. A selection of a la carte venues include Japanese, Mediterranean, vegetarian, seafood, French, Turkish and Thai menus. Dine on exquisite dishes while the marine world passes you by at the Aquamarine restaurant. Beskitas restaurant is decked out in true palatial style – marble floors, chandeliers, and ornate sculptures, to name just a few of the items that may take your fancy, aside from the dishes on the restaurant’s extensive menu.

Or try the Russian restaurant, where vodka and caviar are served from the trolley. As well as poolside bars, there is a Champagne Bar, a Vitamin Bar, an American Bar and a Waterfall Bar. The Scorpion Lounge offers panoramas of the Mediterranean – perfect for that romantic sunset proposal. Elixir clients also receive special meal deal options.

There is no shame in enjoying the fruits of your accomplishments – for those who have reached the pinnacle of their success and are ready to celebrate with the best the world has to offer, look no further than the Mardan Palace.