Natural routes of Cyprus: where to go on the island

Cyprus is a sunny corner of the Mediterranean, a European island, which is famous for its extraordinary color, vibrant resorts, medieval castles and ancient architecture. All in all, Cyprus offers variety, with travel and new discoveries. The nature of the island opens up new horizons for connoisseurs of outdoor activities. Make time for the most impressive itineraries in Cyprus. Which one, we will consider below.

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Hiking trails in Cyprus: types and levels of difficulty

There are about 50 routes in Cyprus that showcase the island's rich ecosystem, traditional hinterland, historical sites and extraordinary landscapes. The transport system is well developed here, there is an entrance to any official routes. In addition, the trails are well equipped with comfortable paths, information boards, signs and benches for rest. All nature trails are divided into:

• Circular. When you return to the starting point without turning back.
• Linear. Having reached the finish line, you must return along the same path.
• F. Trails created by the Cyprus Forestry Department (usually quite long trails).

By distance, the tourist trails of Cyprus can vary from 1 to 19 kilometers. That is, there are options for any age and level of physical fitness. Conventionally, there are three categories of complexity of the natural routes of Cyprus:

1. Lungs. For all skill levels.
2. Medium. Only for adults with sufficient physical fitness. Elevation differences, narrow, uneven paths are possible.
3. High. Difficult terrains with sharp ascents or descents.

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Trail Aphrodite (Aphrodite Nature Trail)

The western part of Cyprus attracts with the incredible natural beauties of the peninsula-reserve Akamas. Here you can see the most stunning landscapes, the famous baths of Aphrodite, the Blue Lagoon, the ruins of a medieval tower, a 500-year-old oak and stunning panoramas. Almost the entire route of Aphrodite runs along the coast. It can be safely called the most saturated in Cyprus. If you are not thrilled with the exploits on foot, you can choose a tour by jeep.

• Starting point: Akamas Botanical Garden
• Route length: 7.5 km
• Difficulty level: medium

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Trail Adonis (Adonis Nature Trail)

Parallel to the Aphrodite trail runs the second Akamas scenic route . The path of Adonis separates immediately after the baths of Aphrodite, and runs inland, at a distance from the sea coast. This is a circular route that ends, like the Aphrodite trail, at the ruins of the Regina Tower. In terms of difficulty, the trails are about the same, although Adonis has more elevation changes.

• Starting point: Akamas Botanical Garden
• Route length: 8 km
• Difficulty level: medium

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Trail Artemis (Artemis Nature Trail)

The best option to appreciate the beauty of the Troodos mountains is to go along the Artemis path near Limassol, on the top of Olympos. It is comfortable to walk here even on hot days. The trail goes deep into the pine forest. These are the very black pines that Cyprus is famous for. The oldest of them is over 500 years old. The main rarity for guests from southern countries is Cypriot snow, which can be found on the top of Olympos from the end of November.

• Starting point: Limassol, Troodos villages, Prodromos
• Route length: 7 km.
• Difficulty level: medium.

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Trail Caledonia (Caledonia Nature Trail)

The picturesque hiking route in the area of the Caledonia Falls is not as long as the previous ones, but more difficult due to steep descents and ascents. But the end result is worth it. The Caledonia waterfall reaches a height of 13 meters, and the rocky path, overgrown with the roots of old trees, gives a special charm to the walk.

• Starting point: Platres village
• Route length: 3 km
• Difficulty level: high

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Ayii Anargyori (Agioi anargyroi)

Cape Greco, in the southeastern part of Cyprus, is a place of stunning rocky landscapes and grottoes against the backdrop of the turquoise sea. The local walking route covers all the sights of the cape - sea caves, the Greco reserve, rocky canyons. The route is quite easy and very impressive.

• Starting point: Ayioi Chapel Anargiori (Holy Unmercenaries), in the eastern part of Ayia Napa
• Route length: 4 km
• Difficulty level: easy

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European walking route E4

European Organization Ramblers Association (European Walking Association) has created a unique walking route for true connoisseurs of this type of activity. The E-route connects almost all European countries.

The Cypriot part of E4 connects the airports of Larnaca and Paphos. The route gives a good idea of Cyprus, because on the way there are many natural, historical, archaeological and cultural monuments. The road, in general, takes 4-5 days. When planning a route, be sure to study in advance all possible destinations and places to stay overnight.

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Hiking trails in Cyprus: hiking equipment

In Cyprus on a clear day it can be very hot. Be sure to take care of the presence of a hat and an adequate supply of drinking water. Any route will be more comfortable if you start early in the morning. What else will you definitely need for active travel along nature trails:

• trekking shoes;
• raincoat or waterproof outerwear;
• functional backpack;
• Sunglasses;
• snacks.

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