Bozcaada, Sea, Sand and Tourism

Do you know the New York Times referred to Bozcaada as “one of Turkey’s most promising wine destinations”? Along with Gökçeada nearby, the two islands are at the southern end of the strategic Dardanelles strait. Bozcaada is happy to welcome you with its cobblestoned streets, old rustic homes with colorful windowpanes, deserted sandy beaches and traditional tavernas.

Bozcaada Castle stands out because of its well-preserved state, serving as the island’s only touristic monument. One of the largest citadels in the Aegean, the castle was expanded by the Byzantine, Genoese, Venetian, and Turkish civilizations who occupied the island successively.

Bozcaada_Castle

Bozcaada is famous for its cold water. If you’re on the lookout for relaxation, check out Akvaryum Beach, which is also known for its vivacious underwater life. Remember to bring your diving equipment with you for this bay where you can find an opportunity to swim with fish.

Bozcaada_Akvaryum Beach

Ayazma Beach is Bozcaada's most popular beach because of its soft, white sands, sometimes becoming a bit too crowded in the high season. Çayır Beach, though is one preferred especially by the island residents and wind / kite surfers.

Bozcaada_Ayazma Beach

The center of Bozcaada is composed of a beautiful square that branches out to the taverna-lined streets, and make sure to see the old Greek houses in this elegant town that was built on a grid plan along a slight slope.

Bozcaada_Post Office

Throughout history, the Greeks and the locals recognized Bozcaada's magical alchemy of elements–the soil, the wind, and the temperatures–that contributes to fantastic grape-growing conditions. The wines of Bozcaada are the ultimate expression of the French term terroir; they exhibit distinct salinity and minerality on the palate. The island sits in front of the point where the Sea of Mamara empties into the Aegean Sea, and it is always windy on the island. The locals love it because they say that it feels like a big sailboat in the middle of the sea and that the island never stays still. These crosswinds between the two seas seem to almost magically tend the vines and allow the most pleasant enotourism experience in Turkey.

Bozcaada_winery

Bozcaada’s prime industry has shifted to tourism from electricity-producing (through wind) and winemaking. Corvus, Amadeus, Talay, Ataol and Çamlıbağ wineries maintain the tradition, with vineyards and restaurants where you can discover their wines.

The Church of Mother Mary is the only church currently open for worship services to Bozcaada’s Orthodox congregation. It is situated in the heart of the Greek neighborhood. Its four-storied bell-and watch-tower are lovely, don't you think?

Bozcaada_Church of Mother Mary

Do pay a visit to art galleries around and if you have more time add Polente Lighthouse and Ayazma Monastery on your itinerary.

Bozcaada

Bozcaada is all about getting away from it all. Unlike some summer destinations with high-volume music and frenetic activity, in Bozcaada you'll cherish relaxed enjoyment. Keep in mind, the wind helping you cool in the heat of summer may be too strong otherwise to force you looking for a shelter even.

Don't forget to taste almond cookies from Çiçek Patisserie, tomato, fig and poppy jams.

Bozcaada is full of murals you won't want to miss!