The charms of Cyprus make it a great destination for hikers (the rugged terrain under glorious sunshine just beckons to be explored). Hiking gives you a great opportunity to interact with the best of the Cypriot outdoor and its amazing views. As the Cypiot weather is mild all year long, most treks can be visited all days a year.
There are lots of trails to discover, from day-long hikes traversing tall pine forests between cobblestone villages to epic multi-day treks linking castle ruins. Tighten your hiking boots and let us take you through some of the best trails of Cyprus!
Our top 5 picks
Here you will find our top 5 spots in Cyprus to do hiking. Here we will show you different alternatives, some more linked to mountains, other to ruins, beautiful scenery and even fauna. We will go from the easiest trails for first timers, all the way to these of medium difficulty and the more difficult ones. Here we go!
1. Artemis Trail
Difficulty: Easy/Medium
This is a great choice for first time hikers, providing simple, yet rewarding challenges. The trail takes you around Mount Olympus, and starts and ends at the small car park at the foot of the mountain. Shade seekers will enjoy this trail as you don’t stay under the sun for too long. From the open land, the trail winds into the woods, giving you a breathing space. The bare land quickly gives way to vegetation such as Troodos sage, alyssum and barberry, and you can witness some fascinating geological features normally only seen in books, such as chromite pits and veins of pyroxenite and dunite.
2. Madari Circular Walk
Difficulty: Medium
This is a medium difficulty circular trek, with a number of starting points. Interact with nature and history while taking in the 13-km (8-mile) circular trail on the Troodos mountain range. From wild trees to fruits, the trail has a variety of vegetation including pine, strawberries, golden oak, cedar and wild rose, among others.
Aphrodite Trail
Difficulty: Easy/Medium
The Aphrodite trail is a medium difficulty, 7.5 km (4.7 miles) walk that introduces you to the most stunning blue lagoons of the island. In spring, wild spring flowers blossom, transforming the fields into large colored beds. With sweet fragrance in the air your nature walk will be an experience for the senses.
Adonis Trail
Difficulty: Medium
The Adonis trail is a 7.5 km (4.7 miles) trek, into the ancient world. On this route you will run into the Queen’s Tower from the medieval period – Pyrgos tis Rigainas is what remains of an ancient monastry associated with the greek goddess Aphrodite. How about touching a 500-year old oak tree? The Adonis trail also hides some of Cyprus mammals, reptiles and birds, combining scenery with fauna.
St Georges Trail
Difficulty: Medium/Hard
This is one of the most dangerous treks in Cyprus – it boasts some of the most beautiful views, but is also a hideout for snakes, so be sure to wear suitable boots. For those who love inspiring experiences, this trail promises just that. The high grounds lack barriers and have steep drops, which can be dangerous.