We made a pleasant short stop at a seaside town on the northwestern Aegean coast of Turkey. Ayvalik was an ancient Greek Aeolian port town. At first glance, Ayvalık may seem unremarkable, a port town similar to many others in this region. But a few streets back from the waterfront, you’ll discover an old Greek village in spirited abandon. Colorful shuttered doors conceal boutique hotels in restored stone houses, mosques converted from Greek Orthodox churches welcome the faithful to prayer, and historic cafes full of locals line hidden squares. The region’s olive-oil production is centered in Ayvalık, and there are plenty of shops selling the end product.
Parking location – Ayvalik: 39.311949N 26.680889E