The northwest Aegean town of Ayvalik is one of Türkiye’s hidden gems, and its Instagram-worthy cobblestone streets and historic stone buildings are a sight for sore eyes. The islands surrounding Ayvalik are a joy to cruise and home many bays and anchorages ideal for a swim stop or lazy lunch away from the crowds. Here are a few good reasons to add Ayvalik to your Türkiye cruising itinerary.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF AYVALIK

Ayvalik boasts a long and fascinating past, so much so that the town was entered onto the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List in 2017. Ayvalik and the nearby island of Cunda (Alibey) have been home to many civilisations, who all left their mark on the landscape. The first community to settle in the area were the Mysians, then the Macedonians, Romans, and Byzantines.

The islands and waters surrounding Ayvalik were once awash with pirates and faced a constant attack, right up until Sultan Fatih Mehmet put an end to the antics by taking command of the island of Lesbos. Once normality returned, the area became an important trading centre, and a mixed Orthodox Greek and Turkish Muslim community formed and flourished. This continued until 1923 when a forced population exchange took place following the Turkish War of Independence, meaning the Ottoman Greeks were forced to return to Greece, and the Turks that once lived in Greece returned to Türkiye. Today, several Orthodox churches are now converted into mosques, and many former Greek mansions are now home to fine restaurants, shops and boutique hotels.

REASONS TO VISIT AYVALIK

Avoid the mainstream tourists.

Ayvalik has been a popular summer destination for the Turkish elite and in-the-know tourists for many years, but it has miraculously remained off the radar for the mainstream crowds. It is an enchanting place where life slows down, where little fishing boats dot the harbour, and you can café-hop or enjoy a fine seafood dinner staring out at the blues of the Aegean.

Photo Credit: D-Resort Murat Reis

An emerging wellness destination.

The air around Ayvalik contains some of the highest oxygen levels outside of the Alps, primarily due to the millions of olive trees that surround the town. Recent years have seen several stylish boutique resorts and spas open in the town – places like D-Resort Murat Reis, offering a first-class onshore escape to high-end travellers and passing superyachts.

Photo Credit: D-Resort Murat Reis, Ayvalik

D-Resort Murat Reis has been described as having a “Hamptons vibe”, with luxury sea view suites decorated in blue and white, fabulous spa and fitness facilities, and an excellent restaurant serving great food, and wine and cocktails. The resort’s white sandy beach also generates praise, as does the unique sunset sauna encased in glass and sat right at the water’s edge. (CONTACT US for reservations).

Cunda Island (Alibey)

Phenomenal cruising

A total of 22 islands dot the coast of Ayvalik, making the local waters a sailing haven with lots of nooks and crannies to explore. Cunda (Alibey) and Lale islands are populated and connected to land by a bridge. Cunda is perhaps the most popular and one we have featured in our post: TURKEY’S MOST ROMANTIC LOCATIONS.

Photo Credit: Restaurant 1862, Cunda Despotevi

Cunda is recognised as one of the most beautiful islands in the Aegean. Its historic buildings and striking turquoise waters ensure it’s a place that impresses all who visit, plus the fine fish restaurants, little coffee shops and café culture are perfect for a laid-back afternoon exploring or low-key evening out. Tips: The secluded seafront restaurant at Mola Cunda Hotel is one of the best on the island, and Cunda Despotevi is also fabulous, boasting an award-winning restaurant that’s making real waves on the food scene.

Excellent Olive Oil

Ayvalik and Cunda are famed for their olive harvest and produce some of the best olive oil in Türkiye. The Kursat company is one of the best local producers and a family run and eco-conscious business that works from their ancestral olive groves. Tip: Consider stocking up on some Ayvalik olive oil if you’re in the area, alternatively, ASK US to supply some of the best with your provisions.

ADD AYVALIK TO YOUR CRUISING ITINERARY

If you fancy exploring Ayvalik and its islands for yourself, please GET IN TOUCH with us for tips on where’s best to go, spa and table reservations and to add a visit to your itinerary.