January is a time for keep-fit resolutions and what better motivation than joining a Wellness Weekend with Olympians such as Rebecca Adlington, Denise Lewis, Daley Thompson, Colin Jackson and Jamie Baulch in a brand new five-star resort in Turkey’s stunning Bodrum area?


This is a dream come true for many, but from 10 to 12 May 2024, you can have a chance to get back to fitness with the help of top athletes at the exclusive Anda Barut Collection in Didim, which is set to open on May 1 2024. 

In its opening week, guests can enjoy seafront circuits with 2000 Olympic heptathlon champion Denise Lewis, double Olympic decathlon champion Daley Thompson, Olympic sprint hurdler and silver medallist in Seoul 1998 Colin Jackson and Jamie Baulch Olympic 400 metre silver medallist in Atlanta 1996. They can then cool off in the Aegean Sea before taking on twice Olympic swim champion Rebecca Adlington who won double gold in Beijing and two bronzes in London in 2012.





Meanwhile, marathon champion Paula Radcliffe will be on hand for running lessons. Olympic silver medallists Vicky Thornley in the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil and Ric Egington in the 2008 Games in Beijing will also give rowing tips. To add to the stellar line up there will be boxing classes with world champion boxer Johnny Nelson and dance lessons by Strictly Come Dancing’s James and Ola Jordan and fit steps with professional dancer Ian Waite.

Colin Jackson who has trained numerous Olympians, including being one himself, said: “Anyone can train to be the best if they have the motivation to do so, and coming to a retreat like this in the stunning resort of Anda Barut will give you the tools to accelerate your performance.”

All of these exciting activities will take place in the opening week of the brand new exclusive Anda Barut Resort. The luxury hotel is perfect for solo travellers, couples and families, offering a range of accommodations split across exclusive areas, adults-only accommodations, family accommodations, and one for all.




Exclusive accommodations at Anda Barut are luxurious and feature a smart room automation system, 55-inch LCD smart TVs, WiFi, and other creature comforts like robes and slippers. Guests will have various options, ranging from luxury one-bedroom villas to larger three-bedroom villas with private pools and terraces. There are also deluxe double rooms with sea views, swim-up double rooms with sea views and terraces, and double rooms with garden views and balconies.

Exclusive accommodations at Anda Barut are luxurious and feature a smart room automation system, 55-inch LCD smart TVs, WiFi, and other creature comforts like robes and slippers. Guests will have various options, ranging from luxury one-bedroom villas to larger three-bedroom villas with private pools and terraces. There are also deluxe double rooms with sea views, swim-up double rooms with sea views and terraces, and double rooms with garden views and balconies.

For entertainment, you’ll have access to various swimming pools, including a large pool that everyone can enjoy. Additionally, the hotel’s adventure park features a variety of slides, a games arcade, and a vast climbing wall. You can also keep the little ones entertained with the kids’ club and its various activities. 

The organiser of the weekend, Cheryl Hicks said: “At this time of the year people are all thinking about getting back into shape. What better motivation than to join Olympic athletes and pro dancers to test their fitness? It is a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of your sporting heroes in a beautiful environment, the Anda Barut collection is stunning and has everything you would want from a resort.”

Jamie Baulch and Colin Jackson


Jamie Baulch said: “To be at the top of your game in sport you need to set good habits and be consistent and the rewards will follow. Being around pro athletes will help your motivation levels rise and this is a great opportunity to have a holiday with a difference.”

Aside from the fantastic weekend, Turkey is a prime destination for wellness and spa tourism worldwide, with its historical heritage, beautiful coasts and landscapes, idyllic beaches, and excellent weather all year round.

Bodrum, in particular, is a wonderful location to explore, offering secluded coves, bustling beach resorts, and historic landmarks like the medieval Bodrum Castle and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to get back to fitness with some of the best athletes in the business while enjoying the luxurious accommodations and stunning surroundings of Anda Barut in Turkey. Book here.



Donna Richardson – Travel Journalist