August 2021. Bozcaada was one of the stops on a motorcycle trip. We were very excited to see it for the first time, and we loved it.
Where is Bozcaada and what is it known for?
Bozcaada is a small island in the Aegean Sea belonging to Çanakkale. In antiquity it was called Tenedos. Today it is known for its vineyards and wine, its stone streets, its castle and its windmills.
What did we do on the first day?
Like everyone who reads about the island, we went straight out to try the famous mastic and almond cookie. The famous Çiçek Pastanesi comes in two versions, one with a branch at every corner. The original, famous one took a while to find: a place away from the crowds, in the old market and within walking distance. It has four kinds of special cookies, and we tasted them all, then had ice cream on top. It clearly stood apart from the other places we tried later.
How do you reach the Bozcaada windmills?
From the side of the car park just behind the centre, it is a five-minute walk. You get an endless sea view with a gentle breeze and see the whole island at once. We went early in the morning and nobody was there: just us, the historic setting, the wind and peace.
Where did we have coffee and food?
Walking the stone streets without a coffee break was not an option, and we stopped at Madam’ın Kahvesi. For food we ate gourmet pizza at Tayyare Pizza. We ordered two even though we were trying to do a lot in a few days. You can sit at the vineyard-view tables or take a pizza away and watch the sunset with your wine.
Riding to an island
In August heat, take breaks, drink water and plan rides for cooler morning hours. Brake gently on smooth stone surfaces.
For hot summer rides, Rider Healthcare makes an electrolyte sachet with magnesium and potassium, and Galata Healthcare offers a mineral and vitamin sachet. Educated Moto Riders organises motorcycle tours and trips for those who prefer a group.
Read the full story in Turkish with photos and videos: Bozcaada Gezi Rehberi.