Cyprus (Greek: Κύπρος, Turkish: Kıbrıs, English: Cyprus) is the third largest and third most populated island in the Mediterranean Sea. Geographically belongs to Asia. Cyprus is located in the eastern part of the Mediterranean at a distance of 380 km from Egypt, 105 km from Syria and 75 km from Turkey. Most of the island is occupied by mountains. Along the northern coast in the latitudinal direction stretches Mountain chain Kyrenia. Its width in the western part is 15 km, to the east it expands to 25-30 km. The western part of the Kyrenia range is higher; individual peaks exceed 1 thousand meters. high point ridge - Mount Akromanda (1023 m). The southwestern half of the island is occupied by a wide mountain range Troodos, indented by longitudinal river valleys. Its highest Northern part, here is the highest point of Cyprus - Mount Olymbos (1952 m).

Cape Greco, sometimes Capo Greco (from Italian Capo Greco - Greek cape), also known as "Cavo Greco" (Greek Κάβο Γκρέκο) - a cape in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus, is the southern end of Famagusta Bay and the eastern end of Aya Bay - Napa. Cape Greco is the easternmost point of the island of Cyprus,

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Troodos is nature reserve, which is located in the middle of the island. Its most impressive feature is the mountain group in the center, creating a unique contrast with mediterranean sea. The highest point of these mountains is Mount Khenistra, reaching a height of 1952 meters. From a bird's eye view, a wonderful panorama opens up, and clean and transparent air is saturated with the smell of cedar trees growing nearby. The difference created by nature strikes the human imagination, despite the proximity of the coast.

There are many attractions in the mountains. During tourist trip definitely worth a visit Nine Byzantine churches. They are distinguished by their exceptional architecture, icons and frescoes.

Mouflons are protected by law, so they live and breed freely in the Cedar Valley. Today, these cautious and rather fast animals can be seen very often. There are many mountain trails for walking, where you can see many different birds belonging to different types, endemic flora, waterfalls and specially designated picnic areas, as well as villages with a leisurely flow of life. The mountain dwellers of these villages are very friendly and welcoming. Each village has its own special kind of activity. Mountain dwellers are always proud of the rich harvest of fruits.

There are many monasteries of historical value in the Troodos region. One of the most prominent is Kykkos monastery. This monastery owns the Golden Icon of the Virgin Mary, painted, according to legend, by St. Luca. Chrysoroyatis Monastery is distinguished by the most charming panorama, and the monasteries machairas And Trooditissa have a unique architectural view - a high peculiar roof. IN eastern region Troodos, at an altitude of 0.87 km there is a monastery machairas. It is surrounded by the picturesque area of ​​Mount Kionia. The monastery resembles an impregnable fortress with very narrow windows. And the covered arcades reach a height of 19 meters.

Slightly below the location of the Troodos, at an altitude of 0.7 km is Solea Valley inhabited by many beautiful and ancient villages, comfortably dozing on the green mountain slopes. In the central part of the valley is the village of Kakopetria, surrounded by rich gardens, poplar groves and pine forests. Residents of the capital Nicosia often visit these places on weekends to wander through the cool winding streets, forgetting about the city heat and bustle. It has a mild climate and beautiful scenery. Two stormy river streams flow through the village, as if cutting it into three parts. The center of this village, called Old Kakopetria, is taken under state protection, and all the houses here are carefully restored. Traces of restoration are visible everywhere: both in small streets and inside cozy courtyards. According to local legends, the village was named precisely because of the huge stone around which, according to legend, young people who married three times had to pass. But one day a couple of newlyweds, after the ritual, fell dead. Since then, the stone is considered "bad". But still, the life of the villagers, contrary to the name, flourishes, preserving the charm, beauty and unique architecture of ancient dwellings and Byzantine churches. As a result, the "bad" stone became gold for the inhabitants of Kakopetria - today this place attracts thousands of tourists and is the center of ecological tourism.

Walking along the winding streets of Old Kakopetria, involuntarily the eye stops at gloomy houses, squeezed by various trading shops, with wooden balconies and narrow stairs decorated with pots of flowers.

In Kakopetria, everything is provided for a good rest: several cozy hotels, restaurants famous for their expertly prepared dishes, and most importantly, magnificent nature, which has a good effect on all guests of this colorful corner. The road leading to Kakopetria originates from Nicosia, later Troodos follows, and finally two villages with sonorous names - Trimiklini and Kato Amiantes.

What to see in Cyprus if you are relaxing in Paphos or its environs. There is a wonderful natural place - the Akamas Peninsula National Park, almost the only corner wildlife in Cyprus and the greenest place in Cyprus with wild beaches.

Where is Akamas Peninsula National Park located?

Is it amazing place in the extreme southwest of Cyprus, 65 km. from resort town Pathos. Naturally, it is most convenient to visit the peninsula if you have chosen Paphos as your holiday base. It is worth planning a whole day on the peninsula, there is something to see and many hiking trails.

Why go to Akamas

Always before a trip to a particular place, I answer a number of questions - when, what I want to see, what to do and why to go there. Akamas is worth a trip to take a break from the hustle and bustle of big resort places like Paphos or Limassol, for wildlife And unique beaches, picturesque gorges. This is the greenest place in Cyprus and most beautiful natural place In Cyprus. Fans will love it here hiking which are best planned either in late spring or early autumn. Summer in Cyprus- this is from 32 to 40 in the shade, there will be no time for walks.

How to get to the Akamas Peninsula from Paphos and other places in Cyprus

There are no good roads on the peninsula itself. You can get from Paphos by rented car through the resort town of Latchi - this is a former fishing village, where you can make a short stop. From Latchi you can drive to a place called Baths of Aphrodite. There we leave the car in the parking lot and rent an ATV to explore the surroundings and remote places of the peninsula. You can also rent a buggy or quad bike in Latchi or Paphos.

It is NOT necessary to rent a jeep for a trip to Akamas. Although sellers of excursions and some sites convince of the opposite. Do not believe me, take an ordinary passenger car and go.

There are no gas stations on the peninsula, make sure that the car is filled.

IN Latchi you can rent a boat and explore the peninsula from the sea with a visit to the sea caves.

Ideal plan to visit the Akamas peninsula, itinerary, accommodation

The ideal plan for exploring the Akamas Peninsula is to drive to the city of Latchi, leave the rental car, and divide the remaining time into two parts - sea and land. For the marine part, rent a boat with a local driver and see the national park from the sea, then come back and take a quad bike and see the peninsula from the land. Also be sure to walk along the Aphrodite trail to look at the Blue Lagoon from above.

On a quad bike from the baths of Aphrodite or from the city of Latchi, it is worth driving to the opposite side of the peninsula, there are many unique bays and lagoons, and in the finale, Lara beach, which is called the turtle beach. This is where the Caretta and Green Turtles lay their eggs.

You can go through Latchi to the baths of Aphrodite, walk along the route, then cross the peninsula on a quad bike in the direction of the Neo Chorio pass and also go to the turtle beach Lara Beach. After returning to the place where you left the car and return to the hotel. In any case, it will take a whole day to explore the peninsula, and nature lovers will spend two and three days here with pleasure.

On lara beach you can also get there by regular car, you don't need a jeep, there is parking near the beach. Alternatively, you can first drive to Latchi and the baths of Aphrodite, explore that part of the peninsula, then get into the car and move to Lara beach on the opposite side.

There are overnight stays in the town of Latchi, you can choose hotels or apartments on Booking.com or on HotelCombined.com

What to see - the sights of the Akamas Peninsula

Latchi village- I consider it a landmark of the region. Tours start from here solo travel on the peninsula by boat, on foot or by quad bike / buggy. Boats, a bay, taverns, a Mediterranean atmosphere - that's all for which you can fall in love with this place.

Baths of Aphrodite- an observation deck at the top and a beautiful natural lagoon with turquoise water, you should not linger - the place is very touristy

Blue Lagoon – a nice place, which was nicknamed for the color of the water Blue Lagoon, is located near the baths of Aphrodite, there is laid walking route at the highest point of which there is an observation deck overlooking the lagoon.

Cape Arnauti- the westernmost point of the peninsula and the whole of Cyprus, you can get here on a four-wheel drive jeep or on an ATV or from the sea. You can pitch a tent.

Lara Beach- the famous turtle beach in Cyprus, two rare species of turtles lay their eggs here - the green turtle and the Caretta sea turtle; sellers of excursions often speculate on this place, promising emotions from visiting the beach. But you won’t see turtles, eggs either - the masonry is fenced with wire. But it’s worth getting into this place, at least in order to touch the real nature, not spoiled by sun loungers and the bodies of tourists.

Hiking trails on Akamas

Main walking route trail of Aphrodite, about 7 km long. through mountains and valleys. The route is not difficult, the highest point is about 400 meters, it offers a stunning view of the blue lagoon from above.

There are several longer and more difficult routes, on the peninsula there are signs near the car parks (Aphrodite and Latchi baths). When planning large hikes, have a margin of time and fresh water at least two liters per person per day. You also need comfortable shoes. Short distances, up to 5-10 km. you can stomp in slippers, checked.

Excursion to the Akamas Peninsula - is it worth buying

In short, no, it's not worth it. I'll explain why.

If you holidays in Paphos, then you can rent an ATV yourself and drive to the peninsula - it's a little more than an hour's drive.

If you are relaxing in Ayia Napa, then there is a high probability that the tour will be crumpled due to distances - in a jeep full of people you will have to shake for more than 3 hours there and the same amount back. Even taking into account the departure at 8 o'clock in the morning, you will not have time to see much. Because of the low comfort impression about it great place may be corrupted. In this case, car rental will help, you can pool with friends. It is much cheaper and more comfortable than giving 65 Euros from the nose for dubious sightseeing adventures.

Where to Dine on the Akamas Peninsula

in all popular tourist centers- the villages of Latchi and Polis, as well as in a place called the Baths of Aphrodite - there are taverns and restaurants.

If you want to eat inexpensively, tasty and with a Cypriot flavor, then choose taverns in the cities of Latchi and Polis, these villages are located in the neighborhood. Below is a list of recommended taverns in these places.

Taverns in Latchi

• Yiangos and Peter Fish Tavern- located near the pier of the city of Latchi, classical Cypriot and Greek dishes cheap and delicious
• Molos Restaurant- a very cool place near the pier in Latchi, it is loved by locals, serves Greek and Italian cuisine. The restaurant is open all year round, it is very cozy here in winter.

Taverns and restaurants in Polis

• The Old Town Restaurant — family restaurant, located in the old town, Mediterranean cuisine, portions are small, but amazingly tasty. The restaurant is open only during the season, in the evenings.
• Arsinoe Fish Tavern– a classic Greek fish tavern, prices are tolerable, a dinner with wine and fish dishes for two will cost about 45 Euros. The tavern is open only in the evenings, this place is also loved by the locals. Sunday is a day off.
• Costa's Corner- Greek diner central square Polis, the menu also includes wood-fired pizza, and delicious breakfasts are served in the morning. The institution can be safely called budget.
• Halfway House Tavern- another family tavern in Polis, which offers Cypriot cuisine, the portions are large. Tavern address: Kranidiotis Street 172, Argaka, Polis
• Archontariki- a Greek family tavern in the center of Polis, a cozy spacious veranda, live music on Fridays, a very atmospheric place, although more touristy than the above restaurants.

Where to rent a car in Cyprus

We rent a car on the Myrentacar website, which brings together most of the local car rental companies. The prices are good, round-the-clock Russian-speaking support, I have used them 6 times in three years. There are no complaints, the conditions are written transparently, so you can always find an acceptable option.

national park Akamas is a delightful, deserted monument of nature and history. This place is included in the world list of UNESCO. It is located near the city and attracts a lot of attention.

On an area of ​​230 sq. km. reserve, you can get acquainted with the most interesting plant species, wonderful animals, rare species of birds that come here to spend the winter. Nobody will bother you here. People come here to enjoy the beautiful natural harmony and be inspired by the wide amazing panorama. You can commit bike ride in the park or swim in the purest warm water on the rocky shores.

Park legend

Many historians cannot give exact answers to the questions: what happened in the park before our time and how did it appear in general? Answers can only be given by mythology, which says that the son of Theseus Akamas was forced to settle in these places after being expelled from Athens. He built here Big city and named after him. The city began to quickly populate and grow. Aphrodite herself soon became the patroness of this place.

Akamas National Park today

The government of the peninsula, and the people of Cyprus themselves, treats the Akamas National Park quite carefully. For them, this is a valuable place that no one is allowed to spoil. Created even public organizations who keep order in the park around the clock. The Akamas National Park is of great interest to botanists and scientists, because it contains about 530 rare plant species, 126 of which grow exclusively in Cyprus. That is why scientists are afraid to somehow disturb the landscape of the park. In spring, beautiful jasmine and orchids bloom throughout the park. The amazing aroma of buds spreads throughout the park.

Akamas has sand beach Lara. Its main inhabitants are sea turtles that nest on the shore. Sea turtles have become an endangered animal species, so a special authority constantly monitors that nothing could destroy the nests (animals, waves, etc.). If you visit the beach in September, you may see baby turtles being born and running into the sea. This is an amazing sight.

The local fauna is also impressive on the island. Of the "residents", the Vulture griffins stand out the most - the rarest species of predators that have recently nested here. Butterflies are also impressive in the reserve, there are more than three thousand of them (25 species, 16 in the Red Book). Catching them is not allowed, but you can take pictures. IN national park Akamas you will also see wild flocks of goats that live in their natural flora. Mostly their flocks graze on the hills. On the wild rocky beaches and the gorges of the peninsula you may encounter amphibians and mammals. Only brave people go to this part of the peninsula, because there are quite a few poisonous snakes here.

Park safety

Akamas National Park may not be safe. Why? Firstly, many types of plants (especially Cypriot ones) can cause allergies, so take the necessary medicines with you. Secondly, careless tourists visit the park, who may not notice and step on a snake or a spider's house. Take with you the antidote and the necessary medicines for these cases. Thirdly, you can get various injuries (abrasions, scratches, etc.) on rocky coasts, brilliant green for these cases will be enough.

How to get there?

You can get to the peninsula with the Akamas National Park by bus that leaves the city and crosses Polis. Route number 705. You can also use taxi services. The most economical option would be Taxiaeport. It is better to return from the reserve by car or taxi, because the bus runs to this place only four times a day.

Akamas is a peninsula and national park, which is a cape with an area of ​​230 square kilometers, located in the northwestern tip of Cyprus (northern Paphos).

At the southern end of the peninsula is the city of Peyia, and to the northeast is the city of Polis. Due to the mountainous nature of the peninsula, Akamas has no roads running through its heart. In addition, some of the roads marked on the Cypriot road maps of the area are not levelled.

In the heart of Akamas there is no housing (hotels, apartments), cafes, restaurants and other infrastructure, as well as no walking public transport. The nearest places for accommodation are the city of Polis and the village of Latsi.

For the purpose of tourist visits, Akamas can be divided into southwestern and northeast coast. The most popular is the northern part of the coast, it is here that famous landmarks like:

Hiking tourist routes in the reserve, among which are the paths of Aphrodite and Adonis;

As well as other less famous, but no less pretty places, for example, bays and.

In this article we will tell you how to visit the northern coast of Akamas and its main attractions:

1. Bus

The only bus that will take you to the Baths of Aphrodite is route number 622, starting from the bus station in Polis. Drive to the last stop. From the bus stop 5 minutes walk to the baths.

The bus runs from 06:00 to 18:00, approximately every hour, travel time is about 30 minutes. Passes along the E713 road: past the western end of Polis beach, then past Latchi and leaving along the coast of Neo Chorio, Akamas.

Polis bus station can be reached from Paphos (airport and city center) and Coral Bay (Peyia). Read more about how to get from Paphos to Polis.

The fare is 1.50 Euro. Day ticket - 5 Euro. Tickets are available from bus drivers.

Near the baths of Aphrodite, from the sea, there is an observation deck with stunning views of the bay. Near observation deck there is a panoramic restaurant with a terrace.

You can go down the stairs and visit beach strip, which is also called the beach of the baths of Aphrodite. For those who wish - sun loungers and parasols.

2. On foot

Or you can go along the coast and, admiring the coast, reach the Blue Lagoon, Manolis Bay and the open bay of Fountain Amorosa. The distance from the bath to the Blue Lagoon is about 5.2 kilometers.

If you want to go hiking in Akamas, we advise you to wear comfortable closed shoes, a hat, closed and preferably loose clothing and (or) generously apply sunscreen to exposed areas of the body (if visiting during the hot summer months), take clean drinking water (more water) and something for a snack (if desired). It is better to apply sunscreen in advance, it is very dusty on Akamas, it is very uncomfortable to apply the product on a body covered with dust.

You can also take sunscreen with you and, if you plan to swim in the lagoons, then the necessary swimwear. It is most convenient to put all things in a backpack.

3. Car, ATV, buggy, motorcycle, bicycle

Car, quad bike and buggy are the most convenient means to visit Akamas. Car rental in Cyprus…

Also, from anywhere in Cyprus to the baths of Aphrodite can be reached by taxi. Taxi in Cyprus...

Below the baths of Aphrodite, near bus stop There is a parking lot where you can leave your car. We get to Polis by car, then we go down to the sea along the E713 road, without turning anywhere, we pass the village of Latchi, go up a little (approximate landmark - Caprice Spa Kosher Resort, coordinates 35.037650, 32.374845) and turn right ( also along the E713 road), then all along the same E713 road we leave directly to the parking lot near the baths of Aphrodite. The road is normal, paved.

If you drive along the coast of Akamas, then you should rent a car with a high suspension, such as a jeep (SUV), even if it's old, it's even better. The fact is that there are no roads on Akamas, along the coast there are areas with potholes, pits and potholes. Many who decide to go in an ordinary passenger car turn around without even a third of the way.

ATV and buggy pass through the Akamas with a bang. You can rent it anywhere you find it.

It is also possible to rent these types of transport right next to the parking lot at the Baths of Aphrodite, there is an agency there, but the prices are higher than in other places on the island.

Here you can also buy a place in the general "truck", which will take you to the Blue Lagoon, Fountain of Amorosa and back.

ATV, buggy, motorbike and bicycle can be rented in Polis. For example, on the E713 road, before reaching the western end of Polis beach, on the right side (by the road), if you go towards the sea, there is a rental office Vehicle. Prices here are lower than on Akamas itself, starting from 80 Euros per day.

A bicycle for trips around the akamas is not an ordinary city bike, but a specialized (mountain) one. Bicycles can be rented in the same office. The cost is from 8 - 25 euros per day.

Here you can also leave your car if you arrived on one, rent a buggy or other means of transportation, go to Akamas on it, and when you return, transfer to your car again. Company website.

Buggy and quad bikes can also be rented near the pier in Latchi, prices are more expensive. Website .

4. Excursions by land and sea

You can visit Akamas with one of the excursions.

There are excursions both by land - on SUVs or ATVs (safari tours), and by sea - on boats and yachts.

An abundance of excursions to Akamas is offered in Paphos and Latchi (Latsi) - a tourist village near Polis.

A safari jeep on Akamas from Paphos costs about 55 Euros. From Paphos you can also take a sea excursion, with a visit to the Blue Lagoon and (or) other Akamas lagoons.

From Latsi you can take a group safari in Akamas

If you do not want to go with a group and on your own, you can order private tour with a visit to Akamas + other places of interest in Cyprus, for example, - an excursion "In the footsteps of Aphrodite with a visit to the Akamas reserve and the rock of Aphrodite"

You can rent a boat with a captain or a yacht in Latchi. There are many sea cruises, both individual and group, for example, a mini-cruise along the northern coast of Akamas. You can only visit the Blue Lagoon or other places on the north coast of Akamas, with the opportunity to swim wherever you want, if you rent an individual boat.

The cost of a 2.5-hour group mini-cruise: from 20 Euro - adult (from 15 if booked in advance) and from 10 Euro - children's tickets.

The cost of a 4-4.5-hour group cruise: from 25 Euro - adult, from 20 Euro - children's tickets.

There are cruises both in the afternoon or in the morning, and in the evening (at sunset). Depending on the cruise, drinks and fruits, yoghurts, wine, beer and barbecue, salads, couscous and snacks are offered on board.