Walking in Northern Cyprus

Trip Details:

With the imposing setting of the Besparmak Mountains running alongside the beautiful cobalt of the Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop, this week-long walking tour of Northern Cyprus offers a perfect getaway with pleasant winter time temperatures. Explore flower-rich mountain trails and discover imposing ruined castles as we showcase the contrasting scenery on this idyllic Mediterranean island.

Why we love this trip:

• Bellapais: Explore the famous twelfth-century Crusader abbey
• Mediterranean food: Enjoy the fresh flavors of mezes at local restaurants
• Buffavento: Spectacular views from this less-visited castle

Included Meals:

• Breakfast: 7
• Lunch: 5

Trip Staff:

• Explore Tour Leader
• Driver(s)

Transport:

• Bus

Accommodation:

• 7 nights comfortable hotel

Walking Grade:

• Leisurely and Moderate

Group Size:

• Trip maximum 16, Explore Average 11

Itinerary:

Day 1 – Join trip in Kyrenia/Alsancak:

• Trip begins at the hotel, a small resort located around 1.5 miles from the center of Kyrenia.
• Welcome meeting in the hotel reception at 8 pm.
• Free time to explore Kyrenia.
• Accommodation: The Ship Inn (or similar)
• Meals provided: None

Day 2 – Hike to Kantara Castle. Afternoon visit to Kaplica Beach:

• Briefing after breakfast, then drive along the coast.
• Visit Cyprus’ largest cave at Incirli.
• Walk through pine forest to Kantara Castle.
• Visit Kantara Castle and then drive to Kaplica Beach for swimming.
• Accommodation: The Ship Inn (or similar)
• Meals provided: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 – Walk through the Besparmak Mountains to Bellapais village:

• Drive into the Besparmak Mountains.
• Walk along forest trails to Bellapais village.
• Visit Bellapais Abbey and Kyrenia harbor.
• Accommodation: The Ship Inn (or similar)
• Meals provided: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 – Visit Saint Hilarion Castle; walk to Karmi:

• Visit Saint Hilarion castle.
• Walk to Karmi village, picnic lunch included.
• Descend to Gillham vineyard.
• Accommodation: The Ship Inn (or similar)
• Meals provided: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 – Optional excursion to the historic city of Famagusta and Salamis ruins:

• Free day for optional excursion or relaxation.
• Famagusta and Salamis ruins visit.
• Accommodation: The Ship Inn (or similar)
• Meals provided: Breakfast

Day 6 – Hike Akdeniz King Tombs Trail:

• Walk from Akdeniz village through countryside.
• Visit historical sites and have a picnic lunch.
• Spend time at Akdeniz Caretta beach.
• Accommodation: The Ship Inn (or similar)
• Meals provided: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 – Visit Buffavento Castle. Walk in the shadow of Besparmak Mountain:

• Visit Buffavento Castle.
• Walk in the shadow of Besparmak Mountain.
• Enjoy the scenery and endemic wild plants.
• Accommodation: The Ship Inn (or similar)
• Meals provided: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 – Trip ends in Kyrenia/Alsancak:

• Trip ends after breakfast at the hotel.
• Free time for departure.
• Meals provided: Breakfast

Walking Information:

• Total distance: 56.5 kilometers
• Daily walk distances: Vary between 2.5 to 5 hours
• Walking grade: Leisurely and Moderate
• Max walking altitude: 820 meters