Uğurlu Village: History and Sea on the Western Edge of Gökçeada (Imbros)

I first went to Uğurlu Village, about 25 kilometers from the center on Gökçeada's western tip, for the mound. I'd heard researchers were working on that little hill; curiosity got the better of me, so I set off. I looked at the excavation site, then my eyes drifted to the sea — the beach was empty, no wind, the water a lovely color. I haven't been able to get Uğurlu out of my head since.

The village was settled in 1984 by families from Burdur, Muğla, and Erzincan. Today it has a population of around 588 — small by Gökçeada standards, but with its own distinct character thanks to its sea and history. Locals often describe it as "quiet but lively in its own way."

How to Get to Uğurlu

After crossing by ferry from Kabatepe, the most practical option for Uğurlu is a rental car. From the center, there are 5 minibus services to the village daily: 05:50, 09:00, 11:00, 13:30, and 18:00. If you miss the last one, finding an alternative way back gets tough — I speak from experience. Don't set off without checking the current ferry schedule for your travel plan.

By car, the center–Uğurlu trip takes about 30 minutes. As you enter the village, the mound sign is on the right, and the road down to the beach is on the left. Parking can be tricky in midsummer, but finding an alternative isn't too hard — just requires a bit of patience.

Beach and Gizli Liman (Hidden Harbor): Both Beautiful in Their Own Way

Something You Should Know About the Beach

Uğurlu Beach is about 1,200 meters long and 80 meters wide — one of Gökçeada's widest beaches. The sand is fine, but some sections have rocky ground; large rocks can also pop up in the water here and there. Those who don't know this beforehand complain, while those who come prepared are comfortable with water shoes. Definitely bring water shoes.

The water stays calm in southerly winds because it's sheltered from them. In northerly winds, it's choppy and cool. In mid-August, water temperature measures around 26°C; by October it drops to about 21°C. Entry is free; sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent.

Gizli Liman (Hidden Harbor): Where the Sun Sets Last

A 15–20 minute walk from the beach brings you to Gizli Liman, which is home to İnceburun, Turkey's westernmost point. The sun sets here last in Turkey — that's a technical fact, not an exaggeration.

The path down is a bit rough, which keeps it uncrowded. One afternoon when I went down to Gizli Liman, there was only one other couple with me. Finding such a secluded cove in midsummer is no longer easy along the Aegean coast.

Important warning: Sea urchins are abundant in the shallow parts of Gizli Liman. Don't take off your water shoes. This is one of the few spots where free camping is allowed; those staying overnight in tents watch both sunset and sunrise from the same place. You can find more information about this hidden cove at Gökçeada's westernmost tip in our related article. Also check out our guide to exploring other villages on Gökçeada. Compared to Gökçeada's other beaches, the Uğurlu area is the most remote but also the quietest.

Uğurlu-Zeytinlik Mound: An 8,800-Year-Old Settlement

Right next to the village, almost unnoticed, this mound is actually one of the Aegean's oldest farming settlements. With a history of 8,800 years, it is considered one of the earliest settlements in the Aegean islands, along with Crete.

It was identified in 1998 and has been systematically excavated since 2009 under the direction of Prof. Dr. Burçin Erdoğu. There are 6 different cultural layers (6800–4300 BC). In the 2025 season, 5 circular, pit-based Neolithic house structures were uncovered; remains of wheat, barley, lentils, and domesticated animal bones were found. The governor even visited — that was talked about in the village for a long time.

You can't get close to the excavation site; you observe it from the perimeter. But knowing that a thousands-year-old village lies beneath that hill makes it worth a slight detour.

Food, Drink, and Accommodation

The village is small, options are limited — let's be realistic about that. The most reliable spot is Ömer'in Yeri: a family-run place serving home-style cooking, warm and welcoming. With a 4.9/5 rating on Google, it's one of the highest-rated in the village. By the beach, Plaj Cafe Güngör is fine for sitting down for tea or a light snack. For sunset watchers, there's Sunset Cafe.

• Ömer'in Yeri — Home-style cooking, family-run (4.9/5)
• Big Gurme — Saç kavurma (pan-fried meat), grilled meats (4.4/5)
• Plaj Cafe Güngör — Beachside cafe (4.3/5)
• Sunset Cafe — Sunset-view drinks spot (4.2/5)
• Acar Steakhouse — Tandır (clay oven meat), grilled meats (4.2/5)

For accommodation, there are about 20 guesthouses and apartment options in the village. Right on the seafront, MaviSu Resort Hotel is a more comprehensive choice, offering 2 restaurants and water sports on a 130-dönüm (approx. 32-acre) property. For budget travelers, Muhtarlık Çamlık Campground is within walking distance of the beach. When researching water sports and other activities, keep Uğurlu in mind for windsurfing as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entry fee for Uğurlu Beach?

No, Uğurlu Beach is a public beach; entry is free. Renting sun loungers and umbrellas is paid.

Can I drive to Gizli Liman (Hidden Harbor)?

You can drive to a certain point; the last section requires walking. The path is uneven, so wear comfortable shoes. Since sea urchins are abundant in the shallow parts of Gizli Liman, keep your water shoes handy.

Is the Uğurlu-Zeytinlik Mound open to visitors?

You can't get close to the excavation site; you can observe it from outside. The excavation season is generally in summer; during that time, you might have a chance to watch the work from a distance.

How long should I stay in Uğurlu?

One full day is enough for the beach, Gizli Liman, and the mound. Those who want to take it slow and camp usually stay 2 nights.

What time is the last minibus?

The known last service departs at 18:00. Since there may be seasonal or daily changes, confirming in the village is the safest way. If you go by rental car, this isn't an issue.