There’s something wonderfully indulgent about extending skirt season beyond the height of summer and finding those pockets of sunshine where bare legs, light layers, and long, golden afternoons still feel entirely appropriate. My stay at Gloria Golf Resort revealed exactly that: a destination that effortlessly bridges the seasons, offering warmth, elegance, and escapism in both spring and autumn alike.
Set along Turkey’s southern coast in Belek, the resort is perfectly positioned for those in-between months. When the crowds of peak summer have eased, and the temperatures soften into something far more wearable, it becomes an entirely different kind of luxury, one that feels calmer, more spacious, and altogether more relaxed. Whether you arrive in spring, when everything feels fresh and blooming, or in autumn, when the sea still holds the warmth of summer, the result is the same: sunshine without the intensity, and a pace that invites you to truly unwind.
A Room Framed by Nature
I stayed in a Garden Standard Room at Gloria Golf Resort, and it couldn’t have been better suited to the tone of the trip. Overlooking lush, manicured gardens, a shimmering pool, and with the sea just visible in the distance, it felt like a tranquil retreat within the wider resort.
Mornings began with soft light streaming through the windows and the gentle stillness that only comes when a resort isn’t at full capacity. It’s one of the joys of travelling in skirt season, the sense of space, the ease of movement, and the quiet luxury of never feeling rushed.
A World of Dining at Your Fingertips
The culinary offering at Gloria Golf Resort is, quite simply, exceptional. What sets it apart is not just the quality, but the sheer variety, made even more impressive by the ability to hop on a buggy and explore the neighbouring Gloria Serenity Resort.
During the day, we gravitated towards relaxed, sun-drenched dining. Galeon Bar became a firm favourite for its laid-back atmosphere and beachside setting, perfect for lingering lunches that stretch into the afternoon. Meanwhile, Estela A La Carte Restaurant offered something a little more refined, ideal for those days when you want to elevate the experience just slightly.
Evenings brought a sense of occasion, with each restaurant offering something entirely distinct.
At Aka A La Carte Restaurant, the sushi was a standout; fresh, delicate, and beautifully presented. Kul A La Carte Restaurant introduced a deeper dive into Turkish flavours, where sweet and savoury combinations created dishes that felt both comforting and intriguingly unfamiliar.
Our final night at Fuego A La Carte Restaurant was a true highlight. The open meat display set the tone, showcasing premium cuts that translated into one of the most memorable meals of the trip: rich, flavourful, and perfectly executed.
Beyond the formal dining, the resort continues to impress at every turn. A patisserie for mid-afternoon treats, an ice cream parlour for something playful, a juice bar for lighter refreshment, and countless spots to enjoy a cocktail, whether that’s pre-dinner or, indeed, pre-lunch.
Golf and the Allure of Belek
While relaxation is a given here, Gloria Golf Resort is also firmly rooted in Belek’s reputation as a world-class golfing destination. During my stay, I experienced the buzz of the Race to Belek 2025, which brought together amateur players from across the UK for its Grand Final on the resort’s renowned Old Course.
Organised by Corendon Airlines alongside Kaden Group and Gloria Hotels & Resorts, the tournament showcased not only impressive talent but also the region’s appeal as a year-round golf hub.
Inspired by the atmosphere, I spent time at the driving range and putting greens and discovered, somewhat unexpectedly, that I have a decent swing. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a complete beginner, the facilities here make it easy to get involved.
Slow Living, Perfected
Of course, skirt season travel is as much about slowing down as it is about soaking up the sun. Days were spent drifting between the beach and the pool, with the Mediterranean remaining invitingly warm well beyond the summer months. There’s something particularly special about swimming in quieter seasons; the water still holds its heat, but the surroundings feel calmer, more intimate.
The spa offered another layer of relaxation, with a traditional Turkish hammam and sauna providing a welcome contrast to the sunshine. And for those inclined to keep active, Fit Gloria is a standout modern, well-equipped, and overlooking the gardens in a way that almost makes working out feel appealing.
A Resort That Has It All
One of the defining features of Gloria Golf Resort is its sheer scale, combined with the seamless connection to Gloria Serenity Resort. Together, they create a destination where everything is within reach, from dining and wellness to sport and leisure.
It’s the kind of place where you can do as much or as little as you like, without ever feeling the need to leave. And in skirt season, when the weather is just right, that sense of ease becomes even more pronounced.
Effortless Escapism
Getting there is refreshingly simple, with direct flights to Antalya via Corendon Airlines making it an ideal choice for a spontaneous escape or a perfectly timed long weekend.
What makes this destination so compelling is its versatility. It offers all the hallmarks of a summer holiday; sunshine, sea, and indulgence, but with the added appeal of softer temperatures and a more relaxed atmosphere.
For those looking to extend skirt season, whether in the freshness of spring or the golden glow of autumn, Gloria Golf Resort delivers in every sense. It’s a place where sunshine lingers, the sea invites, and luxury feels entirely effortless, no matter the time of year.
Gloria Golf Resort
Belek
Turizm Cad No: 74
07506 Serik/Antalya
Turkey
