Turkiye
Assos: The Gem of Türkiye’s North Aegean
Nestled at the foot of Mount Ida, Assos is an Aegean jewel that gazes out over deep blue waters beneath the shade of ancient olive trees. Located in the modern-day Ayvacık district of Çanakkale, this historic site has hosted many civilizations over the centuries. With its untouched nature, fresh air, and ancient treasures, Assos is one of the Aegean’s most beautiful getaways. Even though it is not well known, this hidden gem has a lot to offer.
Aegean’s Cool Route Assos features numerous coves and beaches where visitors can dive into the crystal-clear blue waters. Picturesque coves like Kadırga and Sivrice, pristine beaches such as Sokakağzı, and the Ancient Harbour are among the area’s many unspoiled natural attractions. Kadırga Bay, with its expansive shoreline, has earned a Blue Flag status for its environmental standards. While most of Assos’ shores consist of large stones, many visitors opt to swim from wooden piers. Due to its geographical location, the waters of Assos are cooler than those in the Mediterranean, warming up a bit later in the season.
The Majestic Ancient City of Assos The ancient city of Assos, perched on a dormant volcanic hill, offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Its history dates back to the 6th century BCE, and the city is known for its well-preserved walls and structures revealed through archaeological excavations. It was added to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage tentative list in May 2017.
Flavours to Savour In addition to its natural and historical beauty, Assos is also a destination for food lovers. The region offers a wide range of Aegean dishes, from stuffed zucchini flowers to sea beans. Restaurants and taverns along the harbour serve signature local dishes, including grilled octopus salad, swordfish skewers, grilled dusky grouper, scorpion fish soup, and stuffed calamari.
Known for its olive oil, Assos is a popular stop for sampling mezes made from vegetables, herbs, and local olive oil. To cool off, try the region’s famous mulberry syrup – a refreshing treat on a hot day in Assos.
