It was built in the mid-nineteenth century to produce “suma” the unadulterated spirit used to make raki, the Ottomans’ favourite tipple. Where today a motorised launch ferries hotel guests to and from downtown, barges laden with figs would arrive to keep the stills of the Sumahan busy.
It is a rare Bosphorus-front property that has remained in the hands of the original family. Turkish-American owner-architects Nedret and Mark Butler have transformed an unlikely family heirloom – a derelict late Ottoman alcohol factory, into special retreat for visitors to the modern city. Its aim is to provide the highest degree of service to the independent traveller in the intimacy of a family-owned hotel.
Sumahan is just outside Çengelköy, a part of the city that still preserves its air of an authentic Bosphorus neighbourhood. It is a village of wooden houses, fish restaurants and seaside promenades.
Sumahan has swift connections to both Bosphorus bridges and the business districts on either side of the water. Count on a good half hour for the early morning journey to the airport. Guests are invited to use the hotel's all weather launch which can take them (in under 15 minutes) to and from Kabatas, a transport hub on the European side that is a convenient jump for sightseeing, an evening out, or a business appointment. There is also a scheduled ferry service from Çengelköy. The morning ferry ride to the historic peninsula is itself one of Istanbul's great attractions.
- Tapasuma restaurant offers a twist on contemporary Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine with "mezzes" and a unique dining experience with a view that has no equal.
- Waterfront Café with seaside terrace serving lunch, dinner and beverages.
We will press a pleated skirt, find a guide who specialises in Byzantine mosaics or arrange an experienced driver to get you through a busy schedule of meetings- and do just about anything to make your stay a pleasant one.
- Wellness (hamam, massage and exercise)
- Meeting Facilities : The meeting room, overlooking the Bosphorus is located on the main floor and comfortably accommodates up to 35 people.
- Scheduled complimentary launch transfer across the Bosphorus
- Hotel is handicapped accessible.
- Library.
- 24 hour room and daily turndown services.
- Same day laundry and dry cleaning (Mon-Sat).
- From / to airport transfer on request, rent a car, sightseeing city tour.
- All major credit cards accepted.
The properties of light and water, different at every time of day and in every season provide the instant attraction of staying here. There is a choice of suites and bedrooms, each with its own personality, most with fire places, but all with magnificent views. The twin level suites have their own Bosphorus-side garden.
In the purity of its conception, the choice of wood and marble, steel and brick, fabrics and linens, Sumahan sets a standard in restoration architecture and interior design.
The furnishings are contemporary. The large bathrooms are well-appointed with thick Turkish towels and a choice of traditional colognes and special toiletries including rich natural soaps. Many of the rooms have their own Turkish-style bath or hamam.
- Hairdryer
- Air-conditioning
- Safe deposit box
- Satellite TV
- Internet access
- CD player
- Direct dial telephone
- Minibar
