Adventure tours in Cyprus

Blessed with the beauty of nature’s best palette, the scenery of Cyprus unfolds across glittering coasts, rolling mountains, fragrant forests, and rugged headlands.

We suggest 3 adventure tours :

1. Athalassa National Forest Park Cycling Route

Located south of Lefkosia (Nicosia), and to the east of the Lefkosia – Lemesos (Limassol) motorway, the Athalassa National Forest Park has a 16km bicycle path that was created at the initiative of the Forestry Department. It is a popular area for locals who go there for exercise and recreation.

2. Aphrodite (Circular) – Pafos (Paphos) District, Akamas Forest Nature Trail

Of special interest on this trail are the Loutra tis Afroditis (Baths of Aphrodite), where, according to legend, the Goddess of Love and Beauty used to take her baths. You will also pass by the ruins of Pyrgos tis Rigainas (Queen’s Tower), which are believed to belong to a Medieval monastery. Also noteworthy is a 500­ year­ old oak tree, which is located near the ruins of the tower. Along the trail you can enjoy excellent views of Cape Arnaoutis, Polis Chrysochous and Pafos (Paphos) Forest. There are two non-­ potable water fountains along the trail; one near the ruins of Pyrgos tis Rigainas, and another between the Loutra tis Afroditis (Baths of Aphrodite) and Kakoskali. The trail connects with the Adonis trail, whilst at its starting point you can visit the Botanical Gardens of Akamas. 

Flora: While hiking you can study the endemic plants: Cyprus Golden – Drop (Onosma fruticosa), Cyprus sage (Phlomis cypria var. occidentalis).

Fauna: The main species of fauna found in the area are:

• Mammals: Fox, hare, hedgehog.
• Birds: Wood pigeon, partridge, Cyprus warbler (endemic), Cyprus wheatear (endemic).
• The forest serves as a resting point for many migratory birds.
• Reptiles: Cyprus viper, Cyprus lizard, Black whip Snake.

   3. Xyliatos (Circular) – Lefkosia (Nicosia) District, Adelfoi Forest Nature Trail

Points of interest: The trail begins at the overflow of the dam and runs alongside the highest water level point of the dam. It then crosses the artificial bridge over the dam. The uphill trail takes you to the Xyliatos – ­Lagoudera road, which leads you to the starting point if you follow through the dam’s embankment. The trail connects with another 200-metre trail, which starts from the picnic site ‘Fraktis tou Xyliatou’ (Xyliatos Dam) then follows a small section of the Xyliatos – ­Lagoudera road, joining with the circular path at the dam’s embankment. The dam itself is also of interest. A section of the path passes through a pine forest where you will encounter varieties of the golden oak tree, strawberry tree, myrtle, oriental alder and rockrose.

Flora: While hiking you can study the endemic plants: Shrubby knapweed (Ptilostemon chamaepeuce var. cyprius), Purple Rock ­ Cress (Arabis purpurea), ‘Manouthkia’ (Pterocephalus multiflorus subsp. multiflorus – an evergreen small shrub with pale pink flowers), Cyprus skullcap (Scutellaria cypria subsp. elatior), Thyme (Thymus integer), Wild garlic (Allium willeanum).

Fauna: The main species of fauna found in the area are:

• Mammals: Fox, hare, hedgehog.
• Birds: Bonelli’s eagle, Wood pigeon, partridge, Cyprus warbler (endemic), Cyprus wheatear (endemic).
• Fish: Trout, carp, bass.
• Amphibians: Frogs.