Eşelek Village Guide: Where Wind and Salt Meet

Eşelek is one of the villages where I spend the most time on the island — especially during salt lake season, you can't skip it. Just 8 kilometers from the center, but when you come here, you encounter a completely different side of the island: constant wind, the dazzling white Salt Lake in summer, and free-grazing Imbros sheep. When I first arrived, I was surprised to see how many foreign surf enthusiasts this village attracts.

The Story of Eşelek Village: A 900-Year Migration

Eşelek's story begins in Biga, Çanakkale. The 900-year-old original village was submerged due to dam construction. The people migrated to Gökçeada and kept the village's name alive here. The minaret of the old mosque in Biga was dismantled and brought to the island — it still stands in the village mosque today. When the dam waters recede in summer, the ruins of the old village emerge; going to see them is a strange experience.

Every time I hear this migration story, I'm moved — moving an entire village is an extraordinary collective memory. As you walk through the narrow streets, you'll notice colorful houses, fruit and vegetable stalls at doorsteps, and honey sold by the roadside. Archaeological research in the eastern part of the island has also revealed traces of hunter-gatherer communities near Eşelek — meaning people have favored this place for thousands of years.

Places to Visit and Things to Do

Aydıncık (Kefalos) Beach

You can't come to Eşelek without stopping by Aydıncık. It's 2 kilometers from the village, a 5-minute walk. A 1200-meter stretch of fine sand, calm and crystal-clear sea. Very suitable for families. Last summer, I counted at least 50 tents on the beach one weekend — it's a popular camping spot. The only downside is limited shade; I recommend bringing an umbrella.

Salt Lake and Mud Bath

Between Aydıncık and Kefalos beaches, about 10 kilometers from the center on the road to Eşelek, lies the Salt Lake. In summer, it completely dries up, revealing a brilliant white salt surface — an incredible backdrop for photos. But the real beauty comes in autumn: the flamingos arrive. Between September and October, seeing dozens of flamingos by the lake is a common sight here.

Then there's the mud bath. The sulfurous mud by the lake is said to be good for rheumatism and psoriasis. Scientific evidence is debatable, but those who try it usually leave satisfied. I tried it once myself, and I admit — the smell lingered for two days, but it really softens the skin.

Kitesurf: The True Face of Eşelek

Swimming is prohibited at Eşelek Beach — good to know. This area is exclusively for kitesurfing and windsurfing. It gets over 200 windy days a year. Volkite Kitesurf School, operating since 2010, offers one of Turkey's largest training areas. Consistent winds around 4 Beaufort, with the best period from April to November.

On the beach, you'll mostly see foreign-plated caravans — Bulgarian and Greek surf enthusiasts have discovered this spot. There's a quiet, peaceful atmosphere; everyone minds their own business. In winter, it's deserted, but that has its own charm.

Food, Drink, and Accommodation

Food and Drink

To be honest: dining options in Eşelek are limited. There are a few small grocery stores in the village for basic needs. You can buy honey, cheese, and seasonal vegetables from roadside stalls — they're truly delicious and organic. But if you want a proper restaurant meal, you'll need to go 8 km to the center. Gökçeada's breakfast spots are also mostly in and around the center.

Accommodation

There are about 25 guesthouses and apartments in the village. Boutique hotels have also opened in recent years. Tolstoy's Bisikleti Hotel (TripAdvisor 5/5) is a nice option with 10 rooms, breakfast included. Maslin Hotel is 2.5 km from Aydıncık Beach. Early booking is essential for the summer season — finding a place in July-August can be difficult. Most places are home-stay style; ATM availability in the village is uncertain, so it's wise to carry cash.

Transportation and Practical Tips

Getting to Eşelek is easy. From Gökçeada town center, it's a 12-minute drive on paved road. The most practical method is rental car or your own vehicle. You can also take a taxi, but finding one for the return trip might be problematic. It's unclear whether minibus services regularly stop at Eşelek — don't rely on it; check in advance. An 8 km bike ride is feasible, but factor in the wind; the return trip could be uphill and against the wind.

Be sure to bring sunscreen and a windbreaker. There's no large supermarket in the village; do your shopping in the center. If you're wondering how to get to Gökçeada, check our ferry schedule guide. Also, if you're curious about other villages on the island, take a look at our Gökçeada villages travel guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Eşelek Village and how do I get there?

It's 8 km from Gökçeada town center, on the southwest coast. From the center, it's a 12-minute drive on paved road. From Kuzu Limanı (ferry port), it's about 15 km away.

Can I swim at Eşelek Beach?

Swimming is prohibited at Eşelek Beach; it's exclusively for kitesurfing and windsurfing. For swimming, you can walk 2 km to Aydıncık (Kefalos) Beach — its 1200-meter fine sandy shore is also suitable for families.

Is there accommodation in Eşelek, and what are the prices like?

There are about 25 guesthouses, apartments, and boutique hotels in the village. Prices rise in summer, and early booking is important. Besides boutique hotels like Tolstoy's Bisikleti and Maslin, there are also affordable home-stay options.

When can I see flamingos at Salt Lake?

Flamingos usually arrive at Salt Lake in September and October. In summer, when the lake dries up, the white salt surface is great for photos; in autumn, the flamingos create a completely different landscape.

What is the best time for kitesurfing?

Imbros has over 200 windy days a year, but the ideal period is April to November. Volkite Kitesurf School has been offering lessons here since 2010, from beginner to advanced levels.