Tne newest of Antakya’s boutique hotels, the elegant Liwan is housed in a Levantine-style stone mansion that was once home to the first Syrian president and has a restaurant in the courtyard at the back.

Rooms are extremely comfortable and well equipped with AC, satellite TV and well-stocked mini-bars. A bar and coffeeshop share the ground floor with reception; there’s live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

The Şömineli Avlu Restaurant serves Hatay favourites such as hummus alongside more familiar Turkish staples.

A log fire blazes at the back in winter; in summer the roof peels back to reveal the stars.

Thumbs up: Wonderfully atmospheric building and great decor. Perfect location.

Thumbs down: Rooms overlooked the courtyard are likely to be noisy at busy times.

Tel: 0326-215 7777, www.theliwanhotel.com, Silahi Kuvvetler Caddesi, Antakya