8th - 14th September, 2025
Turkish Retreat
The Dough House on tour again!
Embark on an unforgettable 7-day journey with The Dough House in the stunning, sun-soaked town of Urla, Izmir, Turkey. Nestled in the heart of the Aegean region, Urla is a true hidden gem—and Izmir is the beloved hometown of our Founder, Fulden. Drawing inspiration from her roots, Fulden has crafted a culinary experience that blends her favourite ingredients, local flavours, traditions, and her personal passion. She’s excited to welcome you and guide you through the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes that have shaped her cooking.
We’ve carefully selected the perfect boutique hotel to host this retreat—an oasis of comfort and charm where the friendly staff go above and beyond to make your stay unforgettable. Nestled on the outskirts of Urla, this idyllic hotel is surrounded by lush gardens, complete with a greenhouse, a fruit and vegetable garden, and a stunning outdoor pool. Throughout the retreat, you’ll enjoy hands-on cooking and baking sessions featuring some of the region’s most beloved dishes, prepared with ingredients fresh from the garden, greenhouse, and local markets.
In addition to creating your own culinary masterpieces, you’ll savour meals prepared by talented local chefs, including a truly memorable evening dining at one of Urla’s Michelin-starred restaurants as this little town offers 7 different Michelin restaurants! OD Urla's extensive property includes lush gardens allowing them to grow their own vibrant vegetables, fruit, and herbs. This farm-to-table approach brings the freshest ingredients directly to your plate, delivering a culinary experience that feels as magical and inspiring as an episode of Netflix’s Chef’s Table.
This retreat is brimming with incredible experiences beyond the kitchen. A boat trip along the breathtaking Aegean coastline with a stop at the enchanting Greek island of Chios. Wander through the ancient ruins of Ephesus and visit the serene House of the Virgin Mary. Explore a local vineyard & olive oil mill and delight in a curated wine & oil tasting. Each day also offers opportunities for rest and reflection with yoga, meditation, and plenty of free time to relax by the hotel’s luxurious pool or stroll through its beautiful gardens.
More than just a culinary getaway, this retreat is a weeklong immersion into the heart of Turkish life—a celebration of the rich culture, history, and flavours of the Aegean region. It’s an unforgettable journey into Urla’s tantalizing delights and timeless charm.
Urla: A Gastronomic Paradise
Nestled on Turkey’s western coast, just 35 kilometers from İzmir, Urla is a hidden gem that effortlessly weaves together its rich culinary heritage, vibrant agricultural roots, and pristine natural beauty.
Renowned as a gastronomic haven, Urla offers a symphony of tastes inspired by its unique location and storied history. At the heart of the Aegean diet, the town celebrates fresh, locally-sourced ingredients such as golden olive oil, tender artichokes, wild herbs, zesty citrus, and sun-drenched tomatoes.
Yet, Urla is more than just a feast for the palate. Picture serene beaches lapped by the azure waters of the Aegean, lush olive groves swaying in the breeze, and rolling vineyards that produce some of Turkey’s finest wines.
The Belizi Boutique Hotel: A Serene Oasis
The hotel offers a tranquil escape, set amidst 6 acres of lush gardens adorned with a variety of trees, including majestic century-old olive trees. It provides sweeping panoramic views of Urla, the Aegean Sea, and the surrounding mountains—truly a feast for the senses.
At the heart of the hotel is its own greenhouse, cultivating an array of vegetables and herbs that ensure the freshest ingredients are always on hand. These homegrown treasures elevate the ingredients for our immersive cooking classes. Imagine dining under the shade of olive and citrus trees, savouring the distinctive tastes of the Aegean region.
For moments of relaxation, the hotel features a luxurious outdoor pool, inviting you to unwind with a refreshing dip.
Best of all, the entire property will be exclusively reserved for our group, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience throughout your stay.
Accommodation
The retreat offers exclusive accommodation in 9 elegantly appointed rooms, each with private terrace access and stunning views of the pool, sea, and forest.
Dates
8th – 14th September 2025
Cost
£3,190
What’s Included:
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Round-trip transfers from İzmir Airport
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Six nights at the luxurious Belizi Boutique Hotel in Urla
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6 breakfasts, 5 hands-on cooking classes with lunch, and 6 dinners, including: 2 dinners at local restaurants, 1 exquisite dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant
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Limited drinks with meals (additional drinks available for purchase at the bar)
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Daily yoga and meditation sessions
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Guided vineyard tour with wine tasting and Arboretum visit
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Guided tour of the ancient city of Ephesus and the Virgin Mary’s House
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A boat tour exploring the Greek island of Chios’ coastline (optional: £175pp additional fee for this tour or included if you choose the İzmir boat tour instead)
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A limited-edition gift bag, featuring: A Dough House apron, premium cooking and baking tools, specialty ingredients—don’t forget to save room in your suitcase!
Important Information
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The retreat requires a minimum of 15 participants to proceed.
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Cooking and baking classes are mandatory; all other activities are optional.
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Flights are not included. Please wait for confirmation (expected by mid-March 2025) before booking your travel.
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While The Dough House and Belizi Hotel carry business insurance, we strongly recommend securing your own comprehensive travel insurance.
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Vegetarians are welcome.
Booking Details
Spaces are limited for this unique Turkish Dough House experience and we need to confirm the retreat with the hotel by the end of March, so we kindly encourage you to sign up as soon as possible! A minimum of 15 participants is required to bring this magical experience to life—don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable journey.