The village of Narli, formerly known as Roda, is situated directly opposite Pasha Harbour Island. Renamed “Narli” in 1926, this village is celebrated for its modesty and warm atmosphere. Narli, which becomes particularly crowded during the summer months, has a population of approximately 1,000 people in the winter season. So, how to visit the village of Narli? Where is the village of Narli? What to do in the village of Narli? Let's explore together👇
Discover Narli Village in Turkey: A Cultural Blend of Turkish and Greek Heritage
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The Attractions of Narli Village
Narli Village, which is connected to the Erdek district of Balıkesir, lies to the west of Kapıdağ Peninsula, between Ocaklar and İlhan villages. Until 1924, the village was exclusively inhabited by Greeks, but today, you can still often hear Pomak spoken.
Source: Gezicini
1. Church of St. Dimitrios
St. Dimitrios Church, one of the rare structures that have endured since the period when the Greeks lived there, is the sole church in Narli. This building serves as an important historical monument that witnesses the village's past.
St. Dimitrios, born in 260 in Thessaloniki to a wealthy family, preached Christianity to his soldiers during his military service, which led to the widespread adoption of this belief. The church is named after this significant saint.
Source: Gezimanya
2. Narli Harbour
Narli Harbour is one of the most beautiful spots for sunbathing, fishing, strolling, or simply enjoying the view. The sunken ship that captures your attention when looking out from the harbour towards the sea is a structure that the villagers have long wished to be excavated.
This harbour plays a vital role in both the economic and social life of the village.
Source: Gemlik Belediyesi
3. Narli Village Centre
Since Narli Village is a coastal settlement, all streets lead to the sea. The village, which is noted for its small and peaceful character, can be easily explored on foot. The cobblestone paths and some of the old houses from the Greek era still stand. As you approach the coast, a shift in architecture is observed, with two and three-storey houses becoming more prevalent.
Source: Köylerim
How to get to Narli Village?
You can reach Erdek by IDO from Istanbul and by Ro-Ro ferry from Tekirdağ; from there, Narli minibuses will take you to the village. If you are travelling in your own vehicle, you can also take the opportunity to explore other villages in the surrounding area.
The distance between Erdek and Narli is approximately 21 kilometres, and the journey takes an average of 38 minutes. During the summer months, there is a minibus every hour, while in the winter, the last minibus departs at 19:00.
Source: Erdik Otelleri
Where to Stay in Narli?
While Narli Village does not offer a wide range of accommodation, it provides a peaceful lodging experience. In this regard, we recommend the Tuğla Ev Boutique Hotel, a prominent accommodation option in the area.
Tuğla Ev Boutique Hotel
This boutique hotel with suites and double rooms offers various amenities such as a minibar, air conditioning, a wardrobe, a balcony, a mountain view, room service, a free extra bed, a refrigerator/freezer, a coffee and tea maker, and a television.
Address: Narlı, Village, 10500 Erdek/Balıkesir
Contact Number: 0506 640 28 00
Visitor Reviews
“It feels like you are in your own home, not in a hotel. This hotel is one of the cleanest boutique hotels on the peninsula, and the food is delicious. But more than that, the owner of the hotel, Mr. Reha - we call him 'abi' - is a very humble and wonderful person. He impressed us with his conversations and personality. You will not regret visiting here. It is a quiet, calm, and uncrowded village. But don't call it a village; you can find everything you are looking for here.”
Source: Küçükkuyu
What to Eat in Narli?
Narli Village also leaves a mark on the palate with its local flavours. Here are some special dishes you should definitely try in this village:
Milky and Zelnuk Pastry: This pastry, made by adding milk and a special mixture of thin phyllo pastry, is especially preferred for breakfast. Zelnuk is a local filling usually prepared with curd cheese or milk.
Stuffed Hibiscus: Fresh hibiscus leaves are filled with a bulgur or rice mixture and wrapped to form a light and nutritious Aegean dish.
Stuffed Zucchini Blossom: This dish, prepared by stuffing zucchini flowers picked early in the morning with olive oil, is one of the most special flavours that reflect the natural essence of Narli.
Tahini Halva: Particularly favoured as a dessert following fish, tahini halva is a traditional delicacy consumed in abundance in Narli. This dense dessert made from sesame is also known for its energising properties.