
Polente Lighthouse and Windmills
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Aegean Sea, framed by historic windmills and a charming lighthouse on Bozcaada's western coast.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos

Polente Lighthouse and Windmills
Best Time
Golden hour for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Aegean Sea, framed by historic windmills and a charming lighthouse on Bozcaada's western coast.
"My favourite sunset in the region. You can take great pictures of the cliffs, wind turbines, the light house, ruins, and the sunset."

🌅 Bring Sunset Essentials
Pack drinks, snacks, and a camping chair for the best sunset experience. No amenities available!
🚗 Parking Pointers
Arrive early for parking or consider an ATV/motorbike. Traffic can be heavy post-sunset.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Sunset Views
Cliffside overlooking the Aegean Sea
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the sea, framed by windmills and the historic lighthouse.

Historic Polente Lighthouse
Westernmost point of Bozcaada
Explore the charming, historic lighthouse and its surrounding ruins, offering a glimpse into the past.

Majestic Windmills
Scattered across the landscape
Admire the picturesque windmills dotting the landscape, creating a unique and memorable panorama.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sunset Strategy
Navigating to the Lighthouse
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Bring Sunset Essentials
Pack drinks, snacks, and a camping chair for the best sunset experience. No amenities available!
🚗 Parking Pointers
Arrive early for parking or consider an ATV/motorbike. Traffic can be heavy post-sunset.
🚶♀️ Hike to the Lighthouse
A 20-minute hike from the parking area offers stunning views of cliffs and turbines.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Great photo opportunities of cliffs, windmills, lighthouse, ruins, and the sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Bring Sunset Essentials
Pack drinks, snacks, and a camping chair for the best sunset experience. No amenities available!
🚗 Parking Pointers
Arrive early for parking or consider an ATV/motorbike. Traffic can be heavy post-sunset.
🚶♀️ Hike to the Lighthouse
A 20-minute hike from the parking area offers stunning views of cliffs and turbines.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Great photo opportunities of cliffs, windmills, lighthouse, ruins, and the sunset.
📍 Follow the Signs
Look for a specific sign and turn left to find the correct path to Polente Feneri.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular sunset views at Polente Lighthouse and Windmills, calling it a must-see on Bozcaada. The picturesque scenery of the lighthouse and windmills is a major draw, though the experience can be marred by significant crowds and parking challenges during peak times. Many recommend arriving early and bringing provisions due to the lack of amenities.
"You can’t leave Bozcaada without the sunset experience. Bring your own food and beers. Cheers!"
Riccardo Bianchi
"My favourite sunset in the region. You can park your car where the road ends, and hike to the lighthouse. It takes around 20 minutes to reach the lighthouse. You can take great pictures of the cliffs, wind turbines, the light house, ruins, and the sunset. To enjoy the view, don't forget to bring drinks and a camping chair if possible!"
Eren Kirimli
"This place is gorgeous! Absolutely beautiful and likely the best spot for a sunset view. HOWEVER if it is peak tourist season and you’re planning to drive here.. you better get here well before sunset and stay well after the sun sets. We arrived here around one hour before sunset. The parking spots were slightly starting to fill up and many people had set up their tables along the cliff (pro tip: definitely bring some tables, chairs, drinks as there are zero amenities). We walked to the lighthouse and back but by the time we got back to the car right around sunset there were hundreds of cars advancing in a single lane going nowhere as there was nowhere to park. We hightailed it out of there and felt bad for the people at the end of the line who were bound to be stuck in traffic for the sunset.
So if you want that perfect sunset shot, consider timing it right to stay longer, renting an ATV or motorbike for easier parking, or arranging for a taxi to drop you off and pick you back up. Or if you don’t want all the tourists and crowd just enjoy it from Ayazma Beach like we did."
Rebecca S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Polente Lighthouse and Windmills is by car, ATV, or motorbike. From Bozcaada town, head west. Keep an eye out for a specific signpost, and make a left turn to find the correct road leading to the lighthouse. Parking can be challenging during peak sunset hours, so arriving early is recommended. Some visitors opt for taxis for convenience.
Yes, you can walk to the lighthouse. From the designated parking area, it's approximately a 20-minute hike to reach the lighthouse itself. This walk offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
To avoid traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist season, it's advised to arrive well before sunset. Alternatively, consider renting an ATV or motorbike for easier navigation and parking. Arranging a taxi for drop-off and pick-up can also be a good strategy.
Currently, there are no direct public transportation options to Polente Lighthouse and Windmills. Visitors typically rely on private vehicles, rental ATVs/motorbikes, or taxis.
The drive itself is generally straightforward, but the final approach and parking can be challenging due to crowds, especially around sunset. Following navigation and looking for the specific sign is key.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Polente Lighthouse and Windmills. The area is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the grounds and enjoy the scenery freely.
Polente Lighthouse and the surrounding area are generally accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor natural attraction. However, the lighthouse structure itself may have limited access. The best time to visit is for the sunset.
There is no entrance fee for the windmills. They are part of the landscape and can be viewed and photographed from the surrounding areas.
Yes, you can visit Polente at night. While the sunset is the main draw, visiting after dark offers a different experience with fewer crowds and a chance to see the stars. Ensure you have adequate lighting if you plan to explore extensively.
While generally open, it's always good practice to respect the natural environment and any posted signage. Avoid climbing on structures or disturbing the wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour just before sunset offers the most magical light for photography, illuminating the lighthouse, windmills, and cliffs. Sunset itself provides dramatic colors. Early morning can also be beautiful with softer light and fewer people.
You can capture stunning photos of the historic lighthouse, the iconic windmills against the sky, dramatic cliff formations, the vast Aegean Sea, and of course, the spectacular sunset. Ruins in the area also add to the photographic appeal.
While any camera can capture the beauty, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod can be beneficial for sunset and twilight shots. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the expansive landscape.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local drone laws and regulations for Bozcaada before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
Look for compositions that include the lighthouse, windmills, and the sea. The cliff edges offer dramatic perspectives, and the ruins can add a sense of history to your shots. Experiment with different angles and focal lengths.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants, cafes, or any amenities directly at Polente Lighthouse and Windmills. Visitors are strongly advised to bring their own food and drinks.
It's recommended to bring water, other beverages, and snacks. Many visitors also bring picnic items, cheese, and bread to enjoy while watching the sunset.
The nearest food options are back in Bozcaada town. It's best to eat before you head out to Polente or plan to return to town after your visit.
Absolutely! Polente is a popular spot for picnics, especially during sunset. Just remember to take all your trash with you to keep the area clean.
It's unlikely you'll find dedicated snack shops on the direct route to Polente. It's best to stock up on supplies in Bozcaada town before your journey.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities. Consider bringing a blanket or small chairs for comfortable seating. Arriving a bit earlier than sunset can help avoid the densest crowds, making the experience more relaxed for everyone. The drive itself can be scenic, but be prepared for potential traffic if visiting during peak sunset times.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Photography tips: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and a telephoto lens for details of the lighthouse and windmills. A tripod is essential for low-light shooting during sunset and twilight. Experiment with different angles, including shots from the cliff edges (with caution) and incorporating the ruins for added depth. Don't forget to capture the journey there, as the coastal road itself is quite scenic.
🚗 Adventurous Explorers
Explorer's advice: Pack light but bring essentials like water and snacks. Be prepared for uneven paths and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace. The hike to the lighthouse is a great way to stretch your legs and take in the surroundings. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for a more uncrowded adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Polente Sunsets
To make the most of this experience, planning is key. Arriving at least an hour before sunset is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure a good spot and navigate the inevitable crowds. Bringing your own provisions, such as drinks, snacks, and even a camping chair or small table, is highly advised, as there are no facilities available at the site. This allows for a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience.
For those seeking a more serene experience, consider visiting on a weekday or outside of the peak summer months. Alternatively, enjoying the sunset from a slightly more distant location like Ayazma Beach can offer a similar, yet less crowded, perspective.
Navigating Bozcaada's Western Coast
Finding the exact entrance can sometimes be a bit confusing, with visitors suggesting to look for a specific sign and make a left turn. The road leading to the lighthouse can become congested with cars as sunset approaches, leading to traffic jams. For easier access and parking, many recommend renting an ATV or a motorbike, which can navigate the terrain more nimbly and find parking spots more readily.
While the drive is generally manageable, being prepared for potential crowds and having a clear understanding of the route will enhance your visit. The effort is well worth it for the stunning views and the unique atmosphere of this historic site.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit