Bademli Village Guide: Imbros' Balcony Gliki

Located on the northern slopes of Gökçeada (Imbros), Bademli Village (Greek name: Gliki) is one of the best-preserved historic villages on the island. Sipping Turkish coffee under a plane tree, you'll see Samothrace Island before you; that's why locals rightly call it "the island's balcony."

Last summer, whenever I returned from Kaleköy, I always turned my route upward to Bademli. Escaping the sweltering heat of the center and climbing to that hill where the wind caresses my face, I feel like I'm traveling to another time. Bademli (or Gliki in the local dialect) isn't a quick photo stop for tourist groups; it's a living space where you sip coffee under the plane tree and gaze at Samothrace.

Islanders often call it "the island's balcony." Why? Because from this hilltop village, you look down bird's-eye at Gökçeada center, the airport, and the Greek island opposite. If you need info on public transport, check our Gökçeada bus schedules article. Parking can be a bit tricky in the village square; you may need to leave your car by the roadside, but walking those narrow streets is part of the experience.

Why Is Bademli Called Gliki?

The village's story is hidden in its names. In the old days when Greeks lived here, they called it "Gliki," meaning "sweet." When you first enter the village and see the warm tones of the stone houses and bougainvillea, you understand why it's called sweet. Later, due to the surrounding almond orchards, it was given the Turkish name "Bademli" (Almondy). However, locals and old records still keep the name Gliki alive.

This is one of four protected villages on Gökçeada. Until "Yeni Bademli" (New Bademli) was established on the lower plain in 1984, all life took place here, in "Eski Bademli" (Old Bademli). Now, although the population drops to a handful in winter, the village revives in summer with returning former owners from Istanbul or Greece. As you wander the streets, you'll see restored houses alongside neglected stone walls; this contrast is the village's true face.

Things to See and Do in Bademli Village

The village isn't that big; you can explore everywhere on foot. But there are some spots worth stopping at. When you reach the square, an old plane tree greets you. Right next to it, on the wall of the old village coffeehouse, is a sundial dated 1903. This clock hasn't worked for years because the mulberry tree next to it grew and cast shade. But for islanders, that's not a flaw; it's proof that time stands still here.

If you walk a bit from the square, you'll see the old school building. Though no children's voices are heard, the building now serves as a hotel. If you want to stay in the village, you can also choose KIRYKOS OTEL. A bit higher up is the Church of the Virgin Mary and the Greek cemetery in its garden. The stone tombs and inscriptions silently witness the village's layered past. My advice: walk to the end of the village at sunset and watch Samothrace Island.

Activities you can do in the village:

• Coffee Break: Have Turkish coffee at the small café in the square.
• Photo Tour: Narrow streets and stone textures are perfect for photographers.
• Scenery Viewing: Watch the view of Kaleköy Harbor and the island opposite.
• Cycling: Tour the village surroundings on flat, windy roads by bike. If you want to explore the island by bike, check out our Gökçeada cycling routes guide.

Old Bademli or New Bademli?

Visitors often confuse these two settlements. The table below clearly shows the difference:

Accommodation and Dining Options

Don't expect luxury hotels in the village; this is a place for boutique and intimate stays. The hotel converted from the old school building is quite popular with its stone rooms. There are also small pensions in and around the village square. Dining options are limited but tasty. The cafés in the square offer gözleme (stuffed flatbread), village breakfast, and home-cooked meals.

For shopping, there are small shops in the village. You can find homemade jams, thyme honey, or handicrafts. However, for major grocery needs, it's better to go to the center or New Bademli. If you need cash urgently, you can find ATMs in the center. If you're interested in local products, check out our Gökçeada local products guide.

You might also be interested in other historic Greek villages on Gökçeada: Dereköy's frozen-in-time atmosphere and Tepeköy's famous tavernas are great destinations that complement Bademli.

If you want to explore all the villages of Gökçeada, check out our Gökçeada villages travel guide.

How to Get to Bademli Village

It's about 10-15 minutes from Gökçeada center (Çınarlı). Just follow the signs and turn onto the Bademli road. The road is asphalt but winding and occasionally narrow. You can drive up to the village square, but if the square is full in summer, you may need to park in the spaces at the entrance. If you want to come by public transport, you can use the village minibuses from the center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entrance fee for Bademli Village?

No, entry to Bademli Village is completely free. There is no ticket booth.

Is there a parking problem in the village?

No problem in winter, but during peak periods like July-August, the square can be full. You may need to park your car by the roadside.

Is there a market in Bademli?

There may be small grocery stores for basic needs, but for major shopping, it's safer to go to the center.

What's the best spot for sunset?

The viewing terrace at the far end of the village or the area with the plane tree in the square is ideal for watching the sunset over Samothrace.

What's the best season to visit Bademli?

April to June is the ideal period: almond blossoms are out, crowds haven't arrived yet, and the weather is cool. Although August is busy, the sunset is spectacular.