Three Days of Summer Bliss: My Stay at Club Med Palmiye

After a handful of winter escapes to Club Med’s ski resorts—where the pistes are pristine and the après is second to none—I found myself wondering: could the same magic translate into a summer beach break? Well, after three sun-soaked days at Club Med Palmiye in Turkey, I can safely say… yes, it absolutely can.

The trip started off smoothly—an EasyJet flight from Gatwick to Antalya, just over four hours and fairly hassle-free. Antalya Airport was its usual busy self, but within minutes of stepping off the plane, a friendly Club Med representative was waving me over and guiding me to my transfer. One hour later, I was pulling up to the resort, greeted by palm trees, a salty breeze, and the distant shimmer of the Mediterranean. And just like that, my holiday had properly begun.

A First Impression that Lasts

Even from the moment I stepped into the reception, I felt a shift—a sense of freedom and space. The open design, nautical tones, and light-filled architecture created an immediate sense of ease. I was checked in within minutes—Club Med’s paperless check-in is brilliantly efficient—and my bags were already on their way to the room.

The rooms themselves have had a recent facelift, and it shows. Mine had everything you’d expect from a four-star-plus resort: comfy bed, lots of storage, smart layout—and then there was the view. From my balcony, I could see the calm of the sea to the front and the rugged outlines of the Taurus Mountains behind. I’ve always loved the mountains, but there’s something about being able to dip your toes in the sea too. Palmiye gives you both.

There are also low-rise bungalows if you fancy more privacy or a quieter spot, set at the far end of the resort—ideal for couples, families or anyone looking to truly switch off.

A Resort Designed for Every Type of Holiday

One of the things I’ve always appreciated about Club Med is the way they design their spaces. Palmiye isn’t compact—but it doesn’t feel overwhelming either. It gently meanders along a private stretch of beach, with walking paths connecting all the key zones. You can stroll from one end to the other in about 15 minutes, passing family areas, pools, dining spots, and peaceful hideaways like the Zen pool along the way.

It’s clear they’ve really thought about how people holiday. Want to read in silence with the sea breeze in your hair? Done. Prefer to fill your days with sports and activities? You’ll be spoilt for choice.

Food That Surprises (In the Best Way)

We’ve all heard “all-inclusive” and thought: “great, but how good can it really be?” Club Med Palmiye blows that stereotype out of the water. The food is genuinely excellent. Every meal is beautifully presented, with global options and local specialties in abundance.

Turkish night was a highlight—slow-cooked meats, fresh salads, rich dips, and those little pastries that somehow disappear from your plate before you even know you’ve eaten them. There are multiple restaurants to choose from, and even the buffet feels more like a high-end food hall. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just plain fussy, you’ll find more than enough to keep you excited about each meal.

Activities from Dawn to Dusk (or Just Do Nothing)

I’m the sort of person who likes a bit of activity on holiday—but also loves a lie-in and a good poolside snooze. At Palmiye, you can have it all.

In the mornings, I joined a pilates class on the decking overlooking the sea. Later, I tried my hand at paddle tennis (emphasis on tried), then gave archery a shot. There are watersports, land sports, group fitness classes, and even a flying trapeze if you’re feeling brave.

The resort has a proper “do as much or as little as you like” philosophy. I met guests who never left their loungers, and others who were moving from one activity to the next all day long. Everyone looked equally happy.

Sunset Boat Trips & Sparkling Evenings

One of the trip’s standout moments was a boat excursion along the coastline. The views were straight off a postcard—steep cliffs, quiet coves, and endless shades of blue. We anchored in a calm bay for a swim, then climbed back onboard to find a beautiful spread of fruit and fresh pastries waiting. Club Med never misses a detail.

And the evenings? Magical. Each night, there was something different going on. I joined in for the White & Gold party (definitely pack something sparkly!), the Red theme night, and of course, the iconic ‘45’ celebration—a proper Club Med tradition. You can dive in or sit it out depending on your mood. There’s even a late-night club if you fancy dancing under the stars.

Indulgence at the Spa

One final indulgence: the Sothys Spa. Exclusive to Club Med and utterly luxurious. I booked in for a massage and came out floating. It’s quiet, beautifully designed, and the perfect antidote to an active day—or just a treat because, well, you’re on holiday.

A Short Stay That Left a Big Impression

Three days flew by, but I felt like I’d been away for a week. That’s the power of a place like Palmiye—it’s not just the sunshine or the scenery, it’s the Club Med attention to detail, the effortless way everything runs, and the spirit of joy that flows through every part of the resort.

Having been to several Club Med ski resorts over the years, I can confidently say this summer version holds its own. It’s not just a change of scenery, it’s a whole new rhythm—and one I’ll absolutely be returning to.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a Club Med regular, Palmiye is a brilliant summer complement to your ski favourites. If you’re new to the brand, this might just spoil you for any other kind of holiday. It’s effortless, exciting, and impossibly easy to fall in love with.

And trust me, three days won’t be enough. You’ll leave already planning your return.

Explore Club Med, Palmiye

Club Med Palmiye: At a Glance

📍 Location:
Goynuk, Kemer, Antalya Province, Turkey

🚗 Transfer from Antalya Airport:
Approximately 59 km – around 1 hour by car

🛌 Room Options

Superior Rooms – including family and interconnecting options

Deluxe Rooms – with enhanced amenities

Suites – spacious with premium features

Low-Rise Bungalows – peaceful and private, located at the far end of the resort

💸 Price Range

From approximately €1,396 per person per week (varies by season and room type)

🏊‍♀️ Swimming Pools

The resort features 5 pools, including:

Main activity pool

Zen adult-only pool

Children’s pool

Additional pools near the bungalows and spa

🍽️ Dining & Bars

Phaselis Restaurant – international buffet

Topkapi – Turkish specialties

Olivio – Italian cuisine

Multiple bars throughout the resort for drinks and snacks

👶 Childcare & Kids’ Clubs

Baby Club Med® – for ages 4–23 months

Petit Club Med® – for ages 2–3 years

Mini Club Med® – for ages 4–10 years

Junior Club Med® – for ages 11–17 years

🏄‍♂️ Activities & Wellness

Water Sports – sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking

Land Sports – tennis, paddle tennis, archery

Fitness & Fun – yoga, pilates, flying trapeze

Sothys Spa – massages, facials, and full relaxation experiences.