Gundogdu is quite far from actual Side but is easily reachable by bus, which stops outside the hotel. The location adds to the hotel's charm- away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist traps. The nearby beach is a haven of wildlife and the dunes and rocky coves are beautiful. There is bus from hotel to beach every 10 minutes, but it is not a long walk should you fancy a stroll.
Crown Sunshine itself is fabulous. Don't believe the reviews on here that claim there are no 'sea view' rooms, or that there is nothing decent to eat... both absolute lies.I had a sea view room- 2 balconies, both with sea views... and a view of the sunrise each morning and the sunset each night.
The food here is amazing- and available at any time of day.... early breakfast, late breakfast, fabulous patisserie all day, lunch, evening meal, 'midnight' snack, cocktails and snacks... and to suit all tastes whether it be healthy fruit and salad, Turkish specialities, all kinds of meat, a variety of breads, your eggs however you'd like them....chips, spaghetti, lasagne, soups.
Vegetarians or vegans have plenty of choice, even at the end of the season. The stuffed peppers and grilled veg, with some spicy Turkish salsa, and bulgur wheat were some of my favourites, with candied pumpkin for dessert, but there were so many wonderful options to choose from and they changed daily.
The Solaris spa is also wonderful. The Balinese massage therapists work wonders and the hammam is a great experience. There is also a sauna area available in the afternoons and a gym, but I did not manage to try either of these during my visit.
The indoor and outdoor pools are not heated. I imagine this is a welcome relief during the summer months, but seemed to put many off a dip in November. I personally found it refreshing. The waterslides look fun!
Staff were all very friendly, and the place is kept spotless by the cleaning staff. There is entertainment each night, from disco to bingo. Shops are on site should you need them, but there are many others nearby for those who want something extra.
The majority of guests here were German of course, because the majority of tourists in Turkey are German but staff spoke English too, and other guests were friendly. Great hotel and great service.