The Bodrum Windmills are one of the city’s most recognizable sights, perched high on a hill with sweeping views from Gumbet to Turgutreis. These historic structures combine Bodrum’s heritage with its natural beauty, offering both a visual and cultural experience.
At a Glance: 6 Facts About the Bodrum Windmills
Whether you’re looking to capture panoramic photos or experience a piece of Bodrum’s history, the Bodrum Windmills deserve a spot on your itinerary. Here’s what you should know:
🌬 Dating back to the 18th century, these stone windmills were originally used to grind flour.
📍 They’re located on a hill between Bodrum and Gümbet, offering a unique viewpoint where you can see both bays at once.
📸 One of the most popular spots for sunrise and sunset photography, frequented by locals and tourists alike.
🚗 Easily accessible by car or on foot, with limited short-term parking available nearby.
🏚 Some windmills have been restored, while others remain in ruins, still contributing to the dramatic landscape.
🆓 Free to visit at any time—no entrance fee or official visiting hours.
Where Are the Windmills in Bodrum Located?
The windmills of Bodrum once played a crucial role in local life, using wind power to grind grain. Today, they stand as symbolic landmarks, blending historical charm with scenic viewpoints across the peninsula.
Constructed with stone and wood, these windmills are not only functional remnants of the past but also architecturally striking, often positioned on elevated hills to make the most of wind flow—offering visitors impressive panoramic views.
The most famous group of windmills is located on the hill between Bodrum center and Gümbet. From this spot, you can view both bays simultaneously, making it a favorite for those interested in photography and historical ambiance.
While some windmills have survived intact, others have fallen into ruin—but even these ruined structures offer a powerful sense of history and remain visually compelling.
Main Windmill Locations in Bodrum
Bodrum–Gümbet Hill: The most popular and easily accessible site. It has become a well-known tourist spot, particularly crowded during sunset hours for its wide-angle coastal views.
Yalıkavak: Some windmills in this area have been restored and repurposed as restaurants, cafes, or even boutique hotels. You’ll especially notice them around Yalıkavak Marina.
Ortakent & Turgutreis Area: These lesser-known windmills are more scattered but preserve their original character. Perfect for those who enjoy hiking and discovering hidden historic sites along nature trails.
What to Expect?
The Bodrum windmill areas aren’t just historical landmarks—they’re also peaceful spots where you can spend quality time surrounded by nature and great views. Whether you’re visiting for a quick stop or staying longer to unwind, here’s what you can enjoy:
Activities Around the Windmills
📸 Perfect for Landscape Photography: Capture a wide view that includes Bodrum Bay, Gümbet Bay, nearby islands, and the Aegean Sea all in one frame.
🌅 Watch the Sunset: This is one of the best sunset spots in Bodrum. During summer evenings, enjoy a cool breeze and peaceful atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon.
🎨 Inspiration for Artists: Whether you’re a photographer, painter, or content creator, the windmills and surroundings offer plenty of creative fuel.
🧺 Picnic-Friendly Area: A simple but enjoyable option—bring your own food and drinks since there are no on-site facilities or snack vendors.
🚶♂️ Take a Nature Walk: The area around the windmills is surrounded by rocky paths and trails, making it a good place for a short nature walk or light exploration.
Our Quick Tips for Visiting
🌬 Expect Wind Year-Round: It’s breezy in all seasons. Bring a light jacket, especially in spring and winter.
🧭 No Security or Signage: The site is unfenced and unstaffed—families with children should be especially cautious.
🚫 Free Entry, Open Access: No entrance fee is required. The site is public and open all day.
🕘 Best Times to Visit: To avoid crowds in summer, come in the early morning or just before sunset. These hours also offer the best light for photography.
How to Get to the Bodrum Windmills
The hill between Bodrum and Gümbet is the most accessible location for visiting the Bodrum Windmills. Whether you’re walking or driving, reaching the site is straightforward. Although signage may be limited along the route, the location is marked on Google Maps as “Bodrum Windmills.”
🚶 On Foot
From Bodrum town center, it’s about a 20–25 minute walk to the hill.
The route includes uphill stretches, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
In summer, it’s best to go early in the morning to avoid the heat and direct sun.
🚗 By Car
If you’re coming from central Bodrum, follow Gümbet Street (Gümbet Caddesi) toward the windmill hill.
The final part of the road can be narrow and uneven, but there are small parking spots available for short visits.
Visitors coming from Yalıkavak, Ortakent, or Turgutreis can reach the area easily via main connecting roads.
🚌 By Public Transport
Take a Gümbet minibus (dolmuş) and get off at the nearest stop to the hill.
There’s no direct public transport that goes all the way up, so a short uphill walk is needed after getting off.
