A spectacular Turkish breakfast set the tone for a day exploring Gökçeada — from hilltop ruins and rural villages to the island’s salt lake and Kefalos Beach. A first glimpse into an island with far more layers than we expected.
What began as a straightforward trip from Bozcaada to Gökçeada quickly became an obstacle course of ferries, buses, vanished timetables and a few strangers who clearly understood the system better than we did. Somehow, we made it — and the anticipation carried us the whole way.
Sunday on Bozcaada began with church bells drifting across the rooftop terrace — the first sign that the island’s tiny Greek Orthodox community still gathers here. From there we explored the vast Ottoman castle, uncovered myths of Tenes, climbed to the windmills and ended the day with a ten-wine tasting. A perfect blend of history, stories and island wandering.
A slow, sun-soaked day on Bozcaada with a breakfast feast, a curious little monastery, the golden sands of Ayazma Beach and a relaxed wander through the village.
A travel diary of the Çanakkale to Bozcaada ferry journey: buses, crossing, castle & village lanes on the Turkish-Aegean island that echoes Greece.
A walk through Çanakkale’s old town and harbour leads to a short ferry crossing to Kilitbahir, where Ottoman forts and Gallipoli memorials line the Dardanelles.
This post continues a visit to Ancient Troy, moving beyond the Trojan Horse to explore the archaeological site and its many layers of history. It forms part of a wider journey across the Aegean.
A visit to Ancient Troy exploring myth, history and first impressions of one of the world’s most legendary archaeological sites.
Trying to leave Marmara Adası and reach Çanakkale turns into a lesson in uncertain ferry schedules, guesswork and how travel really works in this part of Turkey.
A final day on Marmara Adası, taking in the island’s atmosphere and reflecting on the experience before moving on.
A visit to Çınarlı on Marmara Adası, exploring its plane trees, promenade and relaxed village life away from the main town.
A visit to Asmalı on Marmara Adası, wandering the village in search of old Greek houses and traces of its past.
