Bodrum Windmills
Crowning the promontory dividing Bodrum and Gumbet, the Bodrum Windmills are one of the region’s prettiest landmarks. Built in the 18th century to grind flour, the seven stone structures are now derelict but are still picture perfect and offer stupendous views over the bays of both resorts.
The basics
Visitors can explore the windmills and admire the views at leisure without paying admission. Wander around the structures—two are in better condition than the others—and peep inside for an idea of how they worked before falling into disuse in the 1970s.
Explore independently or opt to visit as part of a guided tour to benefit from convenient return transport and a guide. Several Bodrum walking tours combine a brief stop here with visits to other highlights like the Castle of St. Peter. Some private Bodrum excursions let you add a windmills visit to customizable itineraries. You can also admire the windmills from afar on boat tours, hydrofoil trips, and single- or multi-day wooden gulet boat cruises from Bodrum.
Things to know before you go
- The windmills are not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible.
- Wear sturdy shoes to negotiate the surrounding scrubland.
- Bring sun protection as there’s no shade at the windmills.
- A nearby drinks kiosk sells tea, coffee, and freshly squeezed orange and pomegranate juice.
How to get there
The Bodrum Windmills sit above Haremtan Street (Haremtan Sk.), which runs the length of the Bodrum-Gumbet peninsula. Local dolmus (public minibuses) pass the neck of the peninsula, from where it’s a 30-minute uphill trek to the site—challenging in high summer. Alternatively, hire a cab to the windmills and return on foot—it’s a pleasant 20-minute downhill walk to Bodrum Marina. Drivers can follow Haremtan and park for free just below the windmills.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The Bodrum Windmills are open around the clock, 365 days a year. During July and August, the walk up the hill to the structures can be extremely hot, so it’s best avoided. For the most impressive views—and the quietest environment in which to explore—visit in the early morning, at sunset, or at night, when Bodrum and Gumbet sparkle in the distance.
The Views from the Bodrum Windmills
On a summer’s day, the views from the windmills are seriously spectacular. Soak up the panorama across to the Greek island of Kos—10 miles (16 kilometers) away—and over Gumbet to the west and Bodrum Bay and castle to the east. Look, too, for Karaada Island (Black Island), famous for its hot springs.
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- Bodrum Marina
- Bodrum Peninsula (Bodrum Yarimada)
- Gümüslük
- Myndos Gate (Myndos Kapisi)
- Bodrum Amphitheater
- Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (Tomb of Mausolus)
- Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology (Bodrum Sualti Arkeoloji Muzesi)
- Castle of St. Peter (Bodrum Castle)
- Lambi Beach
- Yaliciftlik
- Mumcular
- Mazi
- Miletus (Miletos)
- Limnionas Beach
- Priene