The reserve in the eastern part of cyprus. How to visit Akamas, Cyprus: the northern coast (Aphrodite's bathhouse, Blue Lagoon, hiking trails). What to see - Attractions on the Akamas Peninsula

Cyprus is endowed with many names. This is the island of Aphrodite, Akamantis, Amafusia and the Holy Island. Everyone finds something different here: vacationers - comfortable, well-groomed beaches, pilgrims - monasteries and churches, and travelers - sights and ancient ruins. The nature, flora and fauna of the Cypriot world deserve to visit the island.

You can enjoy the contemplation of landscapes, rare species of trees, shrubs in the national reserves of Cyprus, of which there are several. There, the inhabitants of the island are in natural conditions, familiar environment. These are Cavo Greco (near Ayia Napa) and Akamas (Cyprus, the western part). Where exactly to go is everyone's personal choice. It is advisable to go everywhere to form an opinion about what he saw.

Nature and wildlife

Akamas is located in the west of Cyprus and is the most extreme point of its geography in this direction. Remoteness from settlements filled with places by people allows preserving the beauty and unique objects of the reserve in pristine cleanliness. The distance to the nearest center of civilization - Paphos - is 65 kilometers. From other cities - even further.

It makes more sense to plan a full day to visit the peninsula without being distracted by other things. And it is better to settle closer to him, so as not to spend a lot of time on the road. The park covers more than 200 square kilometers; there are rare species of plants on this large territory (39 out of 128 found on the island).

The next item on the peninsula travel program is the Aphrodite Trail. There are a lot of such “paths” on the island, and each claims to be the true, universal. The length of this path is about 7 kilometers, it is designed for pedestrians.

So that those who walk could relax, capture the landscapes they liked, convenient benches were installed along the trail. The sea, cliffs and numerous bays on the coast are visible from above.

If we talk about the rocks and the sea, then immediately recalls another local curiosity - the Blue Lagoon. Swimming is allowed here, which is what vacationers use. The color of the water is fully consistent with the name of the backwater; it is crystal clear, unnaturally transparent.

The lagoon is popular with swimmers, divers and divers, as well as tourists wandering here. The distance from the baths of Aphrodite is about 5 kilometers, it can be overcome on foot. It is recommended to come here early to take a free place, spend time in peace and quiet. Satisfaction with a visit to the lagoon is guaranteed, this fact is confirmed by numerous reviews of tourists.

Moving on, going about 6 kilometers from Lara beach, vacationers will inevitably fall into the Labyrinth of the Minotaur, or rather, will come close to it. It is called "". It is surrounded by high (up to 30 meters) cliffs, hiking trails pass in the gorge itself.

The area is picturesque, but a full-fledged journey through it will require self-confidence, shoes with tight fixation of the ankle (sandals or sneakers), possibly hiking poles. Those who walked through the gorge claim that it resembles the mountain trails of the Crimea: you also have to ride over stones or move sideways along narrow isthmuses. It is not recommended to go here with children, elderly companions.

About the danger awaiting reckless travelers, a sign at the entrance warns. By the way, you won’t be able to enter the labyrinth without special equipment. But you can take a lot of photos, selfies, then to provide them on social networks with a fascinating story about a trip to the places of military glory of Theseus,. The length of the gorge is about 3 kilometers.

Map of the attractions of the north coast of Akamas

Not all travelers to Cyprus, both experienced and beginners, know that in addition to the goddess’s bath and lagoon, as well as hiking trails, there are other attractions in the north of Akamas that are just as worthy of attention. These are the bays of Manolis (Manolis Bay) and Fontana Amorosa (Fontana Amorosa). And there is also a viewing platform Cape Arnaoutis, the island and the church of St. George, other attractions, little-known corners waiting for their discoverers.

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

Where is the Akamas Peninsula National Park?

This amazing place is located in the extreme southwest of Cyprus, 65 km. from the resort town of Paphos. Naturally, it is most convenient to visit the peninsula if you have chosen Paphos as the base of your vacation. 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. It is worth going to Akamas to take a break from the bustle of large resort places such as Paphos or Limassol, for wildlife and unique beaches, picturesque gorges. This is the greenest place in Cyprus and the most beautiful natural place in Cyprus. Hiking enthusiasts who like to plan either at the end of spring or at the beginning of autumn will enjoy it. Summer in Cyprus - this is from 32 to 40 in the shade, it will not be up to walks.

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

There are no good roads on the peninsula. You can get from Paphos in a 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 a quad bike to explore the surroundings and remote places of the peninsula. You can also rent a buggy or ATV in Lachi or Paphos.

There is no need to specially rent a jeep for traveling to Akamas. Although sellers of excursions and some sites convince otherwise. Do not believe it, take an ordinary passenger car and go.

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

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

The ideal plan for visiting the Akamas Peninsula, itinerary, overnight

The ideal research plan for 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 carrier and see the national park from the sea, then go back and take a quad bike and see the peninsula from land. It is also imperative to walk along the Aphrodite trail to view the Blue Lagoon from above.

On an ATV 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 final, Lara beach, which is called the tortoise beach. At this point, the Caretta turtles and the Green turtles lay their eggs.

You can go through Latchi to the baths of Aphrodite, take a walk along the route, then cross the peninsula in the direction of the Neo Chorio pass and also go to the tortoise 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 the Lara Beach You can also get there by regular car, no jeep is needed, 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 in the car and move to the opposite side to Lara beach.

Overnight stays are in Latchi, hotels or apartments can be selected on Booking.com or on HotelCombined.com

What to see - Attractions on the Akamas Peninsula

Lachi Village - I consider it a landmark of the region. From here, excursions and independent trips on the peninsula start by boat, on foot or by ATV / buggy. Boats, a bay, taverns, the atmosphere of the Mediterranean - that’s all you can love this place for.

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 tourist

Blue Lagoon - A beautiful place, which was called the Blue Lagoon for the color of the water, is located near the baths of Aphrodite, there is a walking route laid 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 a quad bike or from the sea. You can pitch a tent.

Lara Beach - the famous tortoise beach in Cyprus, two rare species of turtles lay their eggs here - a green turtle and a sea turtle Caretta; this place is often speculated by sellers of excursions, promising emotions from visiting the beach. But you will not see turtles, eggs, too - the masonry is fenced with wire. But to get to this place is worth it, if only to touch the real nature, not spoiled by the sun loungers and bodies of tourists.

Hiking Trails in Akamas

The main walking route is aphrodite trail, length about 7 km. through the mountains and valleys. The route is not difficult, the highest point is about 400 meters, it offers stunning views of the blue lagoon from above.

There are several long and more difficult routes, on the peninsula there are signs near car parks (Aphrodite and Latchi baths). When planning large trips, have a reserve of time and fresh water of at least two liters per person per day. Comfortable shoes are also needed. Short distances, up to 5-10 km. can be stomped in slippers, checked.

Excursion to the Akamas Peninsula - is it worth buying

In short, no - not worth it. I will explain why.

If you relax in Paphos, you can rent a quad bike yourself and drive to the peninsula - it's a little over an hour's drive.

If you relax in Ayia Napa, then there is a high probability that the tour will be crumpled due to the distance - in a jeep full of people, you will have to shake more than 3 hours there and the same back. Even taking into account the departure at 8 o’clock in the morning you will have little time to see. Due to the low comfort, the impression of this beautiful place may be spoiled. In this case, car rental will help, it is possible to pool with friends. It is much cheaper and more comfortable than giving 65 Euros from the nose for dubious excursion adventures.

Where to dine on the Akamas Peninsula

In all popular tourist centers - Lachi and Polis villages, as well as in a place called Aphrodite's Baths - there are taverns and restaurants.

If you want to eat inexpensively, tasty and with Cypriot flavor, then choose taverns in the cities of Latchi and Polis, these villages are 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, classic Cypriot and Greek dishes, inexpensive and tasty
Molos restaurant - A very cool place near the pier in Latchi, it is loved by locals, serving Greek and Italian cuisine. The restaurant is open year-round, it is very cozy in the winter.

Taverns and Restaurants in Polis

The old town restaurant - a family restaurant, located in the old town, the cuisine is Mediterranean, the portions are small but deliciously delicious. The restaurant operates only in season in the evenings.
Arsinoe Fish Tavern - a classic Greek fish tavern, reasonable prices, a dinner with wine and fish dishes for two will cost about 45 Euros. A tavern is open only in the evenings; locals also love this place. Sunday is a day off.
Costa’s Corner - Greek snack bar in the central square of Polis, the menu also has pizza on the wood, delicious breakfasts are served in the morning. The institution can safely be called a budget.
Halfway House Tavern - Another family tavern in Polis, which offers Cypriot cuisine, large portions. Tavern Address: Kranidiotis Street 172, Argaka, Polis
Archontariki - Greek family tavern in the center of Polis, a cozy spacious veranda, live music on Fridays, a very atmospheric place, although more tourist than the above restaurants.

Where to rent a car in Cyprus

We rent a car on Myrentacar, which brings together the majority of local distributors. The prices are good, round-the-clock Russian-language support, I have used them already 6 times in three years. There are no complaints, the conditions are spelled out transparently, so you can always find an acceptable option.

Among the most famous and interesting places in Cyprus, the Akamas Peninsula, located 50 kilometers west of Paphos, stands out. This place is a reserve and is protected by state organizations that monitor the observance of order in the territory around the clock.

Initially, the peninsula belonged to the British military, who arranged a training ground here and regularly conducted training firing. However, in 2000, Amakas was given the status of a reserve, and the military had to leave this place.

Akamas Travels

Also, Akamas in Cyprus is one of the most advertised tourist destinations. Many guides offer their clients excursions to the main places of this reserve. As a rule, there may be several options:

Travel to the Blue Lagoon, with a visit to the baths of Aphrodite;
Tour of the Lara beach;
Visiting Avakas Canyon.

These are just examples. In fact, in order to see all the sights, even active tourists will have to spend the whole day. Often, guides offer visitors to complete the journey in a small fishing village. There you can try local cuisine and relax, after which you can go back to your resort, or continue visiting interesting places.

A pretty popular choice is sightseeing in Akamas with a rented car. The difference lies in the absence of a guide, therefore, before traveling, it is recommended to read detailed information about all interesting places in order to make an approximate route. It should also be borne in mind that most of the territory is a nature reserve, which is forbidden to travel by car, which is why many places can be seen only by walking. Many signposts along the roads will not allow tourists to get lost. However, many travelers try to take a GPS-navigator with them, since most of the country roads in Cyprus are included in their network.

Travel agencies often offer jeep safari in the reserve. This is due to the almost complete absence of paved roads. You can feel confident only in a jeep, due to its increased cross-country ability. However, no one can forbid coming to Akamas with an ordinary passenger car. Locals often choose bicycles as a means of transport or even walk, which is quite good for health.

There are a couple more ways to get to Akamas. The cheapest is a bus, but there is no direct way to the reserve, because if you get from Paphos, you will need a transfer in Polis. Also from Polis there is the opportunity to go by boat, and often in such trips there is the opportunity to swim in the warm sea along the way.

The reserve is of great scientific interest. Here you can find more than 500 species of plants that can grow only in Akamas! Spring turns these places into a real green garden, the air of which is filled with the aromas of flowers. Butterflies often flutter near plants. In total, 25 species of these insects are found in Akamas, and 16 of them are listed in the Red Book. In addition, some rare species of animals found refuge here.

When visiting the Akamas Nature Reserve in Cyprus, caution is advised not to go too far into the grass, as poisonous snakes that can inflict a deadly bite are often hidden there.

Lara Beach

This is a pretty picturesque sandy beach where tourists often relax and swim. It is on this shore that sea turtles nest, so visitors can sometimes observe the process of creating masonry, as well as the subsequent hatching of the cubs.

Aphrodite Trail

According to Greek mythology, the goddess of beauty herself walked along this path at the moment when Adonis died from the fangs of a boar. The route is laid through relatively bright, picturesque places with brighter flora. In addition, this direction is quite popular among tourists. This is mainly due to traditions that are dedicated to the goddess of beauty.

Adonis Trail

Adonis was the mortal lover of Aphrodite. The gods of Olympus did not approve of such an alliance, but their relationship continued, since no one took active action. Once Adonis died on a hunt. This route is dedicated to this sad event. It is much darker than the path of Aphrodite, in addition, almost all of it lies in pine forests and juniper thickets. Tourists are quite rare here, although the picturesque path even slightly exceeds its competitor.

Cyprus (Greek Κύπρος, tour. Kıbrıs, English Cyprus) is the third largest and third most populated island in the Mediterranean Sea. Geographically relates to Asia. Cyprus is located in the eastern 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 the Kyrenia mountain range. Its width in the western part is 15 km, to the east it expands to 25 - 30 km. The western part of the Kyrenia ridge is higher; individual peaks exceed 1 thousand m. The highest point of the ridge is Mount Akromanda (1023 m). The southwestern half of the island is occupied by the wide Troodos mountain range, cut by longitudinal river valleys. Its northern part is highest, here is also the highest point in Cyprus - Mount Olymbos (1952 m).

Cape Greco, sometimes Capo Greco (from Italian: Capo Greco - Greek cape), also known as “Kavo Greco” (Greek Κάβο Γκρέκο) - cape in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus, is the southern end of Famagusta Bay and the eastern end of Ayia Bay -Napy. Cape Greco - the easternmost point of the island of Cyprus,