A Scenic Route for Trekking and Photo Safari: Uçmakdere

Let me tell you about my trip to Uçmakdere—a place with breathtaking views, unspoiled nature, and ideal conditions for paragliding, trekking, and photo safaris.

Discovering Uçmakdere

Uçmakdere is a historic former Greek village nestled on the slopes of Mount Ganos, in the Şarköy district of Tekirdağ. Known for paragliding, Uçmakdere also offers an amazing trekking route. It’s located 35 km from Tekirdağ and about 170 km from Istanbul. The road winds dramatically through steep slopes via Kumbağ and Barboros. Although the road may seem daunting at first, the winding journey becomes an absolute pleasure thanks to the stunning views of the blue sea and lush green nature.

The village’s original Greek name, “Avdimio,” means “pleasant place”—and it truly is. After the population exchange in 1924, the Greek residents moved to Greece, and Turkish families from Thessaloniki settled here. With a population of around 250–300, Uçmakdere has been renowned for its grapes for centuries. It’s even said that during the Greek era, the famous Çavuş grape was exported to the United States from this very village.

Trekking in the Ganos Mountains

We hiked toward the peaks of the Ganos Mountains, one of the highest points in Thrace. It was a challenging trek, especially as we descended steep slopes—sometimes using ropes to support each other. Though physically demanding, the encounters with local shepherds and their flocks, the verdant scenery, views of Marmara Island, and the paragliders soaring overhead made it an unforgettable day. Despite the fatigue and my camera slung around my neck, the memories made it all worthwhile.

A Village That Captures the Heart

Arriving at the village square, we were welcomed by traditional Turkish coffeehouses. Though small, the village has a pharmacy, a grocery store, and a few other shops. The locals are incredibly warm and helpful. From the moment you begin exploring, Uçmakdere gives off a unique and charming vibe. Flower-filled tin cans decorate windows and doorways, adding color and personality to the streets.

Many of the well-preserved houses are remnants of the Greek era—single or double-story structures made of stone and wood in harmonious blend. Some homes have sadly fallen into disrepair, but even they are photogenic treasures. A dry creek bed splits the village in two, crossed in winter by a wooden bridge. The scent of linden trees fills the air. Just outside the village, a majestic centuries-old plane tree catches the attention of visitors.

After our walk, we returned to the village square to enjoy freshly brewed linden tea and chat with the local elders, who are used to welcoming guests. Nearby, small stalls sell local organic products like homemade noodles, tarhana soup mix, village bread, linden and sage teas, St. John’s Wort, and grape molasses. In recent years, Uçmakdere honey has also become increasingly popular.

Where to Stay

Although there are no accommodations within the village itself, there is a camping area and a small guesthouse by the coast. Nearby towns like Mürefte and Hoşköy (about 20 km away) offer motels and other lodging options. Uçmakdere attracts motocross enthusiasts, photographers, and paragliders throughout the year.

Between August and October, the coastline from Şarköy to Uçmakdere becomes a hotspot for grape harvesting. It’s the perfect time for a day trip or an overnight visit. In autumn, seasonal village activities—like making tomato paste, tarhana, noodles, or drying vegetables and tobacco—draw many photographers eager to capture these traditional scenes.

The coastline between Uçmakdere and Şarköy is dotted with charming wooden fishing huts and piers. If you’re curious and patient, you can even try your hand at fishing with a rod.

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