Cyprus Nature Trails

CYPRUS

NATURE TRAILS

17

42

5

8

3

6

AKAMAS

Akamas is the easternmost point of the three major flora zones of Europe, therefore the number of plant species found here runs up to 530, of which 36 are endemic. The variety of fauna is also impressive: 168 bird species, 12 mammals, 20 reptiles and butterfly species of which the endemic Glaucopsyche pafos butterfly is said to be the symbol of the area. Two species of marine turtle, the green turtle (Chelonia mydas) and the common turtle (Caretta caretta) that are very rare worldwide and are protected, are reproduced in the coasts of Akamas.Akamas is situated at the westernmost point of Cyprus. According to one version, the area took its name from the Greek mythological hero Akamas, son of Theseus who came to Cyprus after the Trojan War and founded Akamantis. Akamas was also the place where Aphrodite and Adonis had their love trysts. It is an area of incomparable natural beauty. Almost all the geological formations found on the island are present in the area. Akamas is ideal for walking, cycling, swimming, diving, fishing, exploring, cruising on small craft, and bird watching.

1. Aphrodite Trail (circular)Starting point: Baths of Aphrodite. The section between the Baths and Pyrgos tis Rigainas (the Castle of Regina) is shared with the Adonis trail. The trail follows a rising path to the hill known as Moutti tis Sotiras (370m) and this can be quite tiring, especially in summer. There is one spring with drinking water at Pyrgos tis Rigainas (the Castle of Regina).Length: 7.5 kms Time: 3 hoursPoints of interest: The baths of Aphrodite where, according to tradition, the Goddess of Love used to bathe. Ruins of the Castle of Regina, which are believed to have belonged to a medieval monastery. It is worth mentioning the huge centuries-old oak tree which can be seen at the picnic site, where drinking water is also available. Along the trail there are several points which give a view of Polis Chrysochous, the Pafos Forest to the east and various beaches of Akamas such as Lara Bay, Tzioni, Karavopetres etc, to the west.

2. Adonis Trail (circular)Starting point: Baths of Aphrodite. Like Aphrodite Trail, the walk can be quite tiring. One spring of drinking water can be found at Pyrgos tis Rigainas. Length: 7.5 kms Time: 3 hoursPoints of interest: From the eastern part there is a view of Polis Chrysochous and the Pafos Forest.

3. Smigies Trail (circular)Starting point: Smigies picnic site, 2.5 kms from Neo ChorioLength: (a) short route 2.5 kms Time: (a) short route 1 hourLength: (b) long route 5 kms Time: (b) long route 2 hoursPoints of interest: View to the east of Polis Chrysochous Bay, Latsi, Pachyammos and Pafos Forest, and to the west Lara Bay, Tzioni, Karavopetres, etc.

4. Smigies - Pissouromoutti Trail (circular)Starting point: Smigies picnic siteLength: 3 kms Time: 1 1/2 hoursPoints of interest: Rich growth of phoenician juniper, lentisk etc. Views of Polis Bay to the northeast and beaches of Akamas to the west.

5. Agiasma Trail (circular)Starting point: 1 km from Kathikas towards Pegeia, near "Kyparissos" restaurant.Length: 1.5 kms Time: 1 hourPoints of interest: 800 metres from the starting point there is a stone-built water fountain. Agia Marina chapel in the area.

1

FONTANAAMOROZA

1

LIGHTHOUSE

BATHS OF APHRODITE

AGIOSGEORGIOS

PYRGOS TISRIGAINAS

370m

AKAMASFOREST

PEANA

LATSI

NEO CHORIOPRODROMI

ANDROLYKOU

AGIOSMINAS

FASLI

PITTOKOPOS

INIA

DROUSEIA

TERRA

KRITOUTERRA

KATO ARODES

PANO ARODES

KATHIKASGIANTCYPRESS

RESTAURANT

AKOURSOSPEGEIA

AGIOSGEORGIOS

MELETISFOREST

PEGEIAFOREST

FISHINGSHELTER

12

2

3

3

4

5

POLIS

AGIAMARINA

TOSTROUMPI

VSIITOR’SCENTER

S

S

CAPEARNAOUTIS

ARCHAEOLOGICALMUSEUM

ANDROLYKOUGORGE

AVAKASGORGE

KATOAKOURDALEIA

PANOAKOURDALEIA

GOUDI

TO PYRGOS

AK

AM

AS

AGIAPARASKEVI

SMIGIES

S

TO

PA

FO

S

TO PAFOS

TO

PA

FO

S

TO

MA

A

INDEX

TRAIL ASPHALTED ROAD LOOSE SURFACE ROAD TRAIL ON LOOSE SURFACE ROAD FOREST GORGE STARTING POINTTRAILS1. APHRODITE TRAIL (Circular 7.5Kms)2. ADONIS TRAIL (Circular 7.5Kms)3. SMIGIES (Circular 5Kms)4. SMIGIES - PISSOUROMOUTTI (Circular 3Kms)5. AGIASMA TRAIL (Circular 1.5Kms)

ALTITUDES UP TO 200 METRES UP TO 400 METRES UP TO 600 METRES OVER 600 METRES

S

FIRE LOOK-OUT STATION

0 2 4 6 8

SCALE KMS.KMS.

1

PITSYLIA

A mountainous region east of Troodos, of which the most important villages are Palaichori, Agros, Alona, Askas, Polystypos, Platanistasa, Kyperounta, Pelendri, Chandria,

Dymes, Agridia, and Kato Mylos. The region is filled with rare natural beauty and a large

variety of ecosystems and landscapes. The natural calabrian pine forests together with

the thickets of the endemic golden oak cover large areas.

The main products of Pitsylia are apples, pears, cherries, peaches, grapes and seasonal

vegetables. There are 4 noteworthy Byzantine Churches in the area which are included in

the official UNESCO list of the World Cultural Heritage. The following 8 nature trails are

found in Pitsylia.

1. Doxasi o Theos - Madari Fire look-out Station Trail

Starting point: "Doxasi o Theos" (Glory to God) 2 kms from Kyperounta and 5 kms from

Spilia.

Length: 3.75 kms Time: 2 hours

Points of interest: A panoramic view from an altitude of about 1600 m.

2. Teisia tis Madaris Trail (Circular)

Starting point: Madari Fire look-out Station. This trail follows a course around the Madari

peak where a Forestry Department Fire Station is situated and ends at the road which

leads to this. Taking this road will lead to the starting point.

Length: 3 kms Time: 1 1/2 hours

Points of interest: The very high, spectacular cliffs along the trail offer exceptional

scenery. Visitors can climb the highest peak of Madari (1613 m) at the Fire look-out Station.

3. Lagoudera - Agros Trail

Starting point: The trail begins at the country road at Lagoudera under the "Koukkides"

cafeteria, continues past the Polystypos - Lagoudera - Madari crossroad, then takes a

loose surface road for 2.6 kms and reaches the Madari-Papoutsas mountain crest. From

this point the trail has two forks. One fork (I) leads down the hill towards the Agros dam

and ends at the village. The other (II) follows a course along the crest and continues

along a secondary road which leads to the Madari Fire Station.

Length: (I) 6 kms Time: (I) 2 1/2 hours

Length: (II) 6.7 kms Time: 3 hours

Points of interest: The trail passes through vineyards and orchards of apple, cherry and

pear trees. The first fork runs parallel to the Lagoudera river, which it crosses at two

points.

The Madari-Papoutsas crest offers a panoramic view in all directions.

4. Panagia tou Araka (Lagoudera) - Stavros tou Agiasmati Trail

Starting Point: Panagia tou Araka (Lagoudera) church or Stavros tou Agiasmati church

approx. 5 - 6 kms from Platanistasa.

Length: 7 kms Time: 3 hours

Points of interest: The church of Panagia tou Araka (1192 AD) and that of Stavros tou

Agiasmati (1494 AD) both with beautiful wall paintings are among the ten Byzantine

churches of the Troodos area included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. The trail

passes through a calabrian pine forest, vineyards, almond trees and old stone terraces.

To the east of the trail we can see Kionia, to the north Morfou valley, Pentadactylos

range, Xyliatos dam, Mount Olympos to the west and Madari to the south.

5. Agros - Kato Mylos Trail (Circular)

Starting Point: Near the Hotel "Rodon" in Agros.


Points of interest: Apple, cherry and pear orchards, vineyards, and Damascus rose

gardens which give the famous Agros rosewater.

2

6. Petros Vanezis Trail, Alona (Circular)Starting point: A point at the main street of the village of Alona near the Youth Centre.Length: 1.5 kms Time: 1/2 hourPoints of interest: Alona is one of the prettiest villages of Pitsilia, with stone-built houses, literally steeped in greenery. The trail passes through dense hazelnut plantations ending down the river.

7. Agia Eirini - Limeria TrailStarting point: The village of Agia Eirini

Length: 5 kms Time: 2 1/2 hoursPoints of interest: The trail ends at the Limeria which were used as a hiding place by the fighters in the 1955-59 struggle for independence. They have been restored and attract a large number of visitors.

8. Asinou - Agios Theodoros Trail Starting point: The chapel of Asinou. The trail passes through rural roads leading to Agios Theodoros village.Length: 5.6 kms Time: 2 hoursPoints of interest: The church of the Virgin of Asinou with its renowned wall - paintings has been declared by UNESCO a World Cultural Heritage Monument.

AGIAMARINA

7

XYLIATOS

NIKITARI

ADELFOI

VYZAKIA

AGIOSGEORGIOSKAFKALOU

FOREST

TO

LE

FK

OS

IA

LAGOUDERA

STAVROS TOUAGIASMATI

POLYSTYPOSLEIVADIA

ALITHINOU

AGIAEIRINI

KANNAVIA

SARANTI

ALONA

PANAGIA TOUARAKA

PLATANISTASA

FTERIKOUDICHANDRIA

SPILIA

KYPEROUNTA

DOXASI O THEOS

MADARI

SINAOROS

TROODOS

KAKOPETRIA

GALATA

FOREST

LIMERIA

AGIOSTHEODOROS

EVRYCHOU ASINOU

TOLE

FKO

SIA

8

4

63

21

AGROS

PELENDRI

KATO AMIANTOS

PANO AMIANTOS

KATO MYLOS

DYMES

POTAMITISSA

AGRIDIA

TO TROODOS

TO LEM

ES

OS

PALAICHORI

AGIOS IOANNIS

AGIOS THEODOROS

ASKAS

5

MOUTTITOU DIA

INDEX

TRAIL ASPHALTED ROAD LOOSE SURFACE ROAD TRAIL ON LOOSE SURFACE ROAD STARTING POINT

TRAILS1. DOXASI O THEOS - MADARI FIRE LOOK-OUT STATION (3.75Kms)2. TEISIA TIS MADARIS (Circular 3Kms)3. LAGOUDERA - MADARI - AGROS (6Kms)4. STAVROS TOU AGIASMATI - PANAGIA TOU ARAKA (7Kms)5. AGROS - KATO MYLOS (6Kms)6. PETROS VANEZIS (ALONA) (Circular 1.5Kms)7. AGIA EIRINI - LIMERIA (5Kms)8. ASINOU - AGIOS THEODOROS (5.6Kms)

ALTITUDES UP TO 500 METRES UP TO 750 METRES UP TO 1000 METRES UP TO 1250 METRES OVER 1250 METRES

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S S

FIRE LOOK-OUTSTATION

S

S

BYZANTINEMUSEUM

XYLIATOSDAM

1536m 1613m

805m

0 5 10SCALE KMS.KMS.

2

NATIONAL FOREST PARK OF ATHALASSA

The park is situated at the Southeastern edge of the capital and covers an area of 840

hectares. Afforestation began in 1904 with the planting of various forest species, mainly

from abroad. Over 500 trees, shrubs and herbs have been recorded in the area, 12 of

which are endemic. At Athalassa N.F.P. a network of trails has been created covering

20 kms.

1. Agios Georgios Trail (Circular)

Starting Point: Two parking lots. The trail goes round the banks of the small reservoir of

the same name.

Length: 2 kms. Time: 1 hour

Points of interest: Picnic area and reservoir.

2. Agios Georgios - Botanical Gardens Trail

Starting point: A point on the south side of the Agios Georgios reservoir.

Length: 2.5 kms Time: 1 hour

Points of interest: Botanical Gardens next to the Forest Nursery which opens Monday -

Friday: 07:30 - 14:30

3. Botanical Gardens - Picnic area at SW Entrance Trail

Starting Point: Botanical Gardens


Points of interest: A route among pine, eucalyptus trees, cypresses and acacias.

A picnic area next to Athalassa reservoir with volleyball and basketball courts.

4. Athalassa Reservoir Trail (Circular)

Starting point: Picnic area at NW entrance


Points of interest: A walk around the reservoir. Observation point for hybrid birds.

5. Picnic area at NW Entrance - Park of Nations Trail

Starting Point: NW Entrance of Picnic area (4 different routes)


Points of interest: Park of Nations where Foreign Heads of States visiting Cyprus plant

trees in remembrance of their visits.

6. Park of Nations - Agios Georgios Trail

Starting point: Park of Nations


The 6 walks described above are part of a circular walk, the starting point of which is

either the Agios Georgios pic-nic area, or that at the SE entrance near Latsia.

Length: 10.5 kms Time: 4 hours.

7. NW Entrance picnic area - Agios Georgios Trail

Starting Point: NW pic-nic area

The two pic-nic areas are linked by a third walk which goes past the Athalassa reservoir

and entrance 1.


8. Path where dogs are allowed

Dogs are allowed only on a 1.5 km path, built specially for this purpose. The path is

situated to the left of the Aglantzia - Geri road.

3

5d

PA

RK

OF

NA

TIO

NS

AG

IOS

GE

OR

GIO

S

TOLEFKOSIA

AG

IOS

GE

OR

GIO

S D

AM

FO

RE

ST

NU

RS

ER

Y

TO LEFKOSIA

TO LEMESOS

AT

HA

LA

SS

A D

AM

BO

TAN

IC G

AR

DE

N

TO LATSIA

OB

SE

RV

AT

ION

PO

INT

OF

BIR

DS

TO GERI

5c

6

6

E2

2

7 7

4

5a

11

2E

1

2

3

4

43

5c,

d

�

5b,c

,d

5

E3

3

AR

ON

AS

S

7

5a

S S

S

S

PP

P

P

P

P

P

8

INDEX

PEDESTRIA

N P

ATH

ASPHALT

ED R

OAD

M

OTO

RW

AY

LO

OSE S

URFA

CE R

OAD

PA

RK B

OUNDARY

CYCLI

NG

TRACK

E1-E2-

E3

ENTRANCE

PARKIN

G A

REA

STA

RTIN

G P

OIN

T

TRAIL

S1.

AG

IOS G

EO

RG

IOS (2K

ms)

2. A

GIO

S G

EO

RG

IOS -

BO

TANIC

AL

GARDENS (2.5K

ms)

3. B

OTA

NIC

AL

GARDENS -

PIC

NIC

SIT

E (2.2K

ms)

4. A

THALA

SSA R

ESERVO

IR (2.2K

ms)

5. P

ICNIC

AREA A

T N

W E

NTRANCE -

PARK O

F NATIO

NS (2.5K

ms)

6. P

ARK O

F NATIO

NS -

AG

IOS G

EO

RG

IOS (2.5K

ms)

7. P

ICNIC

AREA A

T N

W E

NTRANCE -

AG

IOS G

EO

RG

IOS (4K

ms)

8. P

ATH W

HERE D

OG

S A

RE A

LLO

WED

ALT

ITUDES

UP T

O 150

METRES

UP T

O 180

METRES

OVER 18

0 M

ETRES

SP

S

7

EN

VIR

ON

ME

NTA

LC

EN

TR

E

3

12

SCALE

KM

S.

KM

S.

0

TROODOS

Troodos National Forest Park is at the centre of the island and covers an area of 9337

hectares. The highest point is Chionistra or Olympos (1952 m) and the lowest is Moni

forest (700m). The area is magical and suitable for a variety of activities such as

hiking, skiing, mountain cycling, nature study and picnics.

Nearly 800 different plant species have managed to survive, making Troodos NFP the

richest botanical garden of Cyprus. Among them 72 are endemics. Of these

endemics, 12 are exclusive to the Park. The area's geology is of world-wide

importance. The world's best preserved ophiolithical complex is studied by scientists

with a view to achieving an understanding of how the ocean's crust was created 90

million years ago at the bottom of a vast ocean known to geologists as the "sea of

Tethys". Along the trails, one can see samples of plutonic rock which were created by

the crystallization of magma which took place 2000-6000 m, under the bottom of the

ocean. In the area 10 trails exist covering a total lenght of 50 kms.

1. Artemis Trail (Circular)

Starting point: 300 m from the junction between the Chionistra road and the Troodos -

Prodromos road at an altitude of 1850m

Length: 7 kms Time: 2 1/2 - 3 hours

Points of interest: The black pine forest, rare species of flora and rocks of the area. Of

historic interest are the ruins of rough fortifications built during the final year of the

Venetian occupation of Cyprus (1571 AD) by a group of Venetian generals who decided

to put up a defence against the Ottomans at that point.

2. Atalanti Trail (Circular)

Starting Point: Troodos Square

Length: 14 kms Time: 4 - 5 hours

Points of interest: The trail goes around Chionistra at an altitude of 1700-1750 m,

passing through dense thickets of black pine and Troodos foetid juniper. One of the

largest Junipers which is 800 years old can be found in the area. There is an

outstanding view of the entire island. Of particular interest is the entrance to a

disused chromium mine which ceased its operations in 1982. At 3 kms from the

Troodos Square is a spring with drinking water.

3. Persephone Trail

Starting point: 150 m South of Troodos Square. Walkers must either return to the

starting point or be picked up at the point where the trail crosses the forest road.

Length: 3 kms Time: 1 hour

Points of interest: Rich vegetation and a breathtaking view from Makria Kontarka.

4. Kampos tou Livadiou Trail (Circular)

Starting point: The forest road leading to the "Kampos tou Livadiou" picnic site 1,5 kms

from Troodos square and 9 kms from Karvounas.


Points of interest: A significant number of centuries-old black pine. The trail is linked

to "Kampos tou Livadiou" picnic site.

5. Kalidonia Trail

Starting point: About 350m from the B8 road between Troodos and Platres near the

President's summer residence. Also accessible via the old Troodos - Platres road

which begins 3 kms from Troodos Square.

Length: 3 kms Time: 1 1/2 hours

Points of interest: The trail follows a course along Kryos Potamos river, which never runs dry. It passes the Kalidonia Falls and ends at Psilo Dendro, in Pano Platres.

6. Psilo Dendro - Pouziaris TrailStarting point: The junction of the Platres - Mesa Potamos forest road and the Moniatis - Platres - Troodos road near Psilo Dendro.Three different routes start from the above point.(a) The first route is circular. It passes through dense thickets of Pine to Pouziaris peak, from there to Kaminouthkia stream, then to Vryses and back to the starting point at Psilo Dendro.Length: 9 kms Time: 3 - 4 hours(b) The second route is an uphill walk towards Pouziaris and ends at a point of the Troodos Square - Makria Kontarka (Persephone) Trail (I) via which one can go to Troodos Square (II).Length: (I) 7 kms Time: (I) 3 hoursLength: (II) 9.5 kms Time: (II) 4 hours(c) The third route initially follows the same course as the previous route, up towards Pouziaris, but then takes a secondary forest road to Kryos Potamos at the starting point of the Kalidonia trail.Length: (I) Psilo Dendro - Kryos Potamos 5 kms Time: (I) 2 hoursLength: (II) Psilo Dendro - Kryos Potamos - Kalidonia Falls - Psilo Dendro 8 kms Time: (II) 3 hours.

7. Myllomeris Falls TrailStarting Point: Opposite Platres ChurchLength: 1.2 kms Time: 1/2 hourPoints of interest: The trail leads to Myllomeris Falls.

8. Mnimata Piskopon TrailStarting Point: Kampos tou Livadiou, 2 kms from the Troodos Square on the road to Karvounas.Length: 8 kms Time: 3 1/2 hoursPoints of Interest: The trail passes through thickets of Pinus Nigra and follows a course along the edge of cliffs with a view towards the Potamos tou Chromiou (stream). The trail ends at the loose surface road Platania - Apotheri - Agios Nikolaos where one can choose between three routes which end at the Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis Church, included in the Unesco World Cultural Heritage List, Kakopetria village or the Platania picnic site.

9. Ariadni Trail (Circular)The picturesque village of Gerakies is situated in the beautiful Marathasa Valley 65 kms from Lefkosia. It is built on the slope of a mountain, amid rich vegatation, on the fringes of the Pafos Forest.Starting point: Opposite the last building on the way to Kykkos Monastery.Length: 3.3 kms Time: 1 - 1/2 hoursPoints of interest: The trail takes an upward course to the Fire look-out Station, progresses along the mountain crest, and then descends to the village centre.

1 2 3 4 50

SCALE KMS.KMS.

INDEX

TRAIL ASPHALTED ROAD LOOSE SURFACE ROAD TRAIL ON LOOSE SURFACE ROAD P PARKING AREA STARTING POINT

TRAILS1. ARTEMIS TRAIL (7Kms) (Circular around Chionistra)2. ATALANTI TRAIL (Circular 14Kms)3. PERSEPHONE TRAIL (3Kms) 4. KAMPOS TOU LEIVADIOU (Circular - 3Kms)5. KALIDONIA (3Kms) 6. PSILODENTRO - POUZIARIS (Circular - 9Kms)

7. MYLLOMERIS FALLS (1.2Kms)8. MINIMATA PISKOPON (8Kms)9. ARIADNI (Circular - 3.3Kms)


S

MESAPOTAMOS

MAKRYAKONTARKA

SAITTAS

MONIATIS

TO LEMESOSMANTRIA

KATO PLATRES

FOINI

PANO PLATRES

MYLLOMERIS

PSILODENDRO

5

6

6

3

2 TROODOSSQUARE

PANO AMIANTOS

KATO AMIANTOS

21

2

1952m

CHIONISTRA

TROODOSFOREST

LEIVADI TOU PPACHIA

KARVOUNAS

KAKOPETRIA

GALATA

SINA OROS

TO

LE

FK

OS

IA

KALOPANAGIOTIS

OIKOS

GERAKIES9

KAVALLOS(FIRE LOOK-OUTSTATION)

TO KYKKOS

MOUTOULAS

PEDOULAS

LEMYTHOU

PRODROMOS

PALIOMYLOS

AGIOSDIMITRIOS

7

4 TOKYPEROUNTA

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

1629mPOUZIARIS

P

POTTERYCOLLECTION

TO PAFOS

PRODROMOSDAM

2

TROODITISSAMONASTERY

TO SPILIA

PLATANIA

AGIOS NIKOLAOSTIS STEGIS

8

TO OM

OD

OS

TO

LE

FK

OS

IA

5 MACHAIRAS FOREST - LEFKARA - KATO DRYS - VAVATSINIA

The 4 trails in this area are near the picturesque villages of Lefkara, Kato Drys,

Vavatsinia, and the area of Kionia in the Machairas Forest.

Lefkara, with its stone-built houses, is renowned for its hand-made embroidery, known as

"Lefkaritika". The beautiful House of Patsalos houses the Traditional Museum of

Embroidery & Silversmithing. The rich flora of the area includes a rare plant, strictly

protected by the Bern Convention, the Lefkara Astragalus (Astragalus macrocarpus ssp.

lefkarensis).

1. Kionia - Profitis Ilias

Starting Point: Kionia picnic site. Accessible either from Vavatsinia or from the Machairas

Monastery road which leads to Kionia.


Points of interest: The trail goes down to the Monastery of Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elijah)

where there is a spring with drinking water.

2. Spilia tis Athasias

Starting point: A loose surface road which begins at the Vavatsinia - Kionia forest road,

3 kms outside Vavatsinia


Points of Interest: "Spilia tis Athasias” (cave). It is believed that this was a shaft used for

mining.

3. Lefkara - Metamorfosis tou Sotiros Church (Circular)

Starting Point: In the village of Lefkara, on the road to Vavatsinia. An uphill course to the

chapel which eventually leads back to the village.


Points of interest: The chapel of the Transfiguration (Metamorfosis tou Sotiros) built on the

peak above Lefkara (727m). A panoramic view of Pano and Kato Lefkara, Kato Drys and

the Monastery of Agios Minas.

4. Lefkara - Kato Drys

Starting Point: The same with trail No 3. After the chapel, the trail takes another path

down to Kato Drys.


Points of interest: The well-known Agios Minas Convent can be seen near Kato Drys.

Opening Hours: The convent is open to groups of visitors from Mondays to Fridays only.

FIKARDOU

GOURRI LAZANIASMACHAIRASMONASTERY

MACHAIRASFOREST

KIONIA

SPILIA TISATHASIAS (CAVES) 2

1

TO

AG

IOI

VA

VA

TS

INIA

S

VAVATSINIA

3

4

KATO DRYSVAVLA

TOLEMESOSLEFKOSIALARNAKA

KATO LEFKARA

PANO LEFKARA

LYTHRODONTAS

MATHIATIS

TO L

EFKO

SIA

KAPEDES

PROFITIS ILIASMONASTERY

LAGIA

750m

1423mS

S

S

S

MUSEUM

LACE ANDSILVERWAREMUSEUM

AGIOS MINASMONASTERY

TOFARMAKAS

INDEX

TRAIL ASPHALTED ROAD LOOSE SURFACE ROAD TRAIL ON SURFACE ROAD STARTING POINT

TRAILS1. KIONIA - PROFITIS ILIAS (7Kms)2. SPILIA TIS ATHASIAS (2.5Kms)3. LEFKARA - METAMORFOSIS TOU SOTIROS CHURCH (Circular 2.3Kms)4. LEFKARA - KATO DRYS (2,5Kms)

ALTITUDES UP TO 600 METRES UP TO 900 METRES

S

UP TO 1200 METRES OVER 1200 METRES

METAMORFOSIS TOUSOTIROS

TOLEFK

OSIA

TO

LE

FK

OS

IA

1 2 3 4 50

SCALE KMS.KMS.

6 KAVO GKREKO

A National Forest Park at the southeastern end of the island between Agia Napa and

Paralimni. The uniqueness of the area is not only due to its natural beauty but also to the

fact that it offers a wide range of interests such as swimming, diving, towed parachute,

fishing, rowing, cycling, riding, climbing, airsports, and hiking.

The vegetation is dominated by coastal shrubs of which the most frequent observed

species is phoenician juniper and plants such as crown daisies, wild garlic, poppies,

anemones, mainly in spring time.

There are about 400 plant species in the area, 4 of which are endemic. The fauna

includes species such as partridge, wood pigeon, crow, owl, as well as a large number of

migratory birds, which stop on the island chiefly to rest. These include blackbirds, thrushes

etc. Also observed in the area are foxes, hares and various species of bats, reptiles and

butterflies. To date, 9 trails have been constructed in Kavo Gkreko - Paralimni area.

1. Konnoi - Spilia Kyklopa Trail (Cyclop’s Cave)

Starting point: Konnoi Beach


Points of interest: A walk along the coast leading to natural caves, the best known of

which is the Cyclop’s cave. A kiosk operates on Konnoi beach.

2. Konnoi - Agioi Anargyroi Trail

Starting Point: Konnoi Beach

Length: 1.4 kms Time: 1/2 hour

Points of interest: A walk along the coast which ends at the little church of Agioi

Anargyroi, built over a sea cave which, according to tradition, was the home of

St. Kosmas and St. Damianos.

3. Agioi Anargyroi Trail (Circular)

Starting point: Church of Agioi Anargyroi


Points of interest: Dense vegetation, mainly phoenician juniper, and a picnic site.

4. Agioi Anargyroi - Thalassines Spilies (Sea Caves) Trail

Starting Point: Church of Agioi Anargyroi


Points of interest: A beautiful walk along the coast. The sea caves are accessible only

by sea and the area is suitable for diving.

5. Thalassines Spilies (Sea Caves) Trail (Circular)

Starting Point: Agia Napa-Kavo Gkreko road, 6 kms east of Agia Napa.

Length: 3.6 kms Time: 2 hours

Points of interest: A walk along the coast which at certain points is very steep and

craggy.

6. Kavos Trail (Circular)

Starting point: Old quarry, parking area


Points of interest: An old quarry, a large number of fossilized marine organisms, and a

vantage point at the peak of the Cape from which one can see as far as the

Stavrovouni Monastery. The impressive cliffs are suitable for climbing.

PROTARAS AREA

There are three trails in this area which is well known for its golden sandy beaches

and its windmills.

7. Profitis Ilias - Konnoi Beach Trail

Starting Point: The little church of Prophet Elijah. Access from the Kavo Gkreko -

Paralimni Road. The trail leads to Konnoi Beach.

Length: 8.5 kms Time: 3 hours.

Points of interest: A view from the little church of Profitis Ilias. Chapels of Agioi Saranta

and Agios Ioannis.

8. Panagia - Agioi Saranta Trail

Starting Point: Church of Panagia (the Virgin) (300 metres to the left of the Kavo

Gkreko - Protaras Road) to the Church of Agioi Saranta


9. Panagia - Agios Ioannis Trail

Starting point: Church of Panagia (the Virgin) (300 metres to the left of the Kavo

Gkreko - Paralimni Road) to the chapel of Agios Ioannis.


INDEX

TRAIL HORSE RIDING TRAIL CYCLING TRACK ASPHALTED ROAD LOOSE SURFACE ROAD TRAIL ON LOOSE SURFACE ROAD FOREST PARK LIMITS PARKING AREA STARTING POINT

TRAILS:1. KONNOI - CYCLOP’S CAVE (2.4Kms)2. KONNOI - AGIOI ANARGYROI (1.4Kms)3. AGIOI ANARGYROI (Circular) (2.3Kms)4. AGIOI ANARGYROI - SEA CAVES (4Kms)5. SEA CAVES (Circular) (3.6Kms)6. CAVOS (2.5Kms)7. PROFITIS ILIAS - KONNOI BEACH (8.5Kms)8. PANAGIA-AGIOI SARANTA (2.5Kms)9. PANAGIA-AGIOS IOANNIS (2.8Kms)

ALTITUDES: UP TO 50 METRES UP TO 100 METRES UP TO 150 METRES OVER 150 METRES

P

S

1 2 3

SCALE KmsKms0

AGIOIANARGYROI

KONNOI BEACH

MANTRES

LIGHTHOUSE

CAPE GKREKO

THALASSINESSPILIES

(SEA CAVES)

4

56

4,5

4,5

5

4

4

3

7

3

2

1

7

PROTARAS

TO PARALIMNI

PROFITIS ILIAS

7

8 PANAGIAAGIOI SARANTA

8

AGIOS IOANNIS

9

9

S

TO AGIA NAPA

93m

P

CYCLOP’S CAVE

S

S

S

S

S

P

P

P

5

STAVROS TIS PSOKAS

The Forest Station at Stavros tis Psokas is in

the heart of the Pafos forest, the largest and

most beautiful calabrian pine forest (Pinus brutia)

of the island. It can be reached from Pafos

(51 kms), via Kannaviou, or from Polis

Chrysochous (34 kms). All forest roads leading

to Stavros tis Psokas are earth tracks, except

for Kykkos - Stavros and Polis Chrysochous -

Stavros roads.

At the station there is a Rest House

(Tel. 26991858) a cafeteria and an organised

picnic site. Nearby there is an enclosure where

visitors can admire the renowned endemic

species of wild sheep Ovis gmelini ophion

(Cyprus Moufflon), and the Dama dama (a deer

species introduced to Cyprus from abroad).

Quite close from there (19 kms) is the

well-known Cedar Valley. The three nature trails

in this area have a total length of 9.5 kms.

1. Chorteri Trail (Circular)

Starting Point: "Platanouthkia" site, about halfway

on the Stavros tis Psokas - Selladi tou Stavrou

road. Initially, the trail follows an upward course

and can be tiring, especially in summer.


Points of interest: An outstanding view of the

valley of Stavros and the Forest Station. Near

the starting point is a spring with drinking water.

2. Selladi tou Stavrou Trail (Circular)

Starting point: Selladi tou Stavrou


3. Selladi tou Stavrou - Heliport Trail

Starting point: Selladi tou Stavrou


Points of interest: An outstanding view of the

Stavros valley. For a long walk, hikers can walk

from the Forest Station to Selladi tou Stavrou, via

the forest road, then along a trail back to

Stavros via the forest road. The route is 5 kms

long, and takes 2.5 hours.

INDEX

TRAIL ASPHALTED ROAD LOOSE SURFACE ROAD 1290 STARTING POINT


S

TRAILS1. CHORTERI - (Circular 5Kms)2. SELLADI TOU STAVROU - MOUTTI TOU STAVROU (Circular 2.6Kms)3. SELLADI TOU STAVROU - HELIPORT (1.9Kms)

SELLADI TOUSTAVROU

32

MOUFFLON’SENCLOSURE

CHORTERI

RESTAURANT

XEROPIGI

MOUTTI TIS MOSFILIAS

HELIPORT

2

2

1

1

1189m

1290m

1255m

1269m3

TO KYKKOS

STAVROS TIS PSOKASFOREST DEPARTMENT

STAVROS

REST HOUSE

MOUTTI TOUTORNOU

H880m

LAPPI TISCHORTERIS

S

BAMBAKI

S

DEER’S ENCLOSURE

PLATANOUTHKIAFOUNTAIN

0 500 1000SCALE METRESMETRES

KYPARISSIA - GERMASOGEIA DAM

Kyparissia is situated between the forest road which links Foinikaria with Prastio and the

public Akrounta-Dierona road, about 10 kms from Lemesos. The most interesting feature of

the area is the Kyparissia river with its steep banks. The vegetation consists of mixed

thickets of cypress trees, calabrian pine, olive trees and rockroses.

1. Kyparissia - Germasogeia Dam Trail

Starting point: Moutti tis Kyparissias. Access is via forest roads near the village of

Foinikaria.

Length: Two routes: The first is circular and is 3.7 kms long. The second is linear and leads

to Germasogeia Dam, 3,8 kms long.

Time: 2 hours for each route.

Points of interest: A panoramic view at the starting point. The trail runs parallel to the

Kyparissia river.

2. Germasogeia Dam Trail (Circular)

Starting point: An earthroad leading to Prastio via Foinikaria on the east side of the

Germasogeia Dam.

Length: 1.35 kms Time: 1/2 hour

Points of interest: A walk around a small peninsula inside the dam which has been enriched

with various species of fish. Fishing is allowed only with permission from the Fisheries Department.

8

LE

ME

SO

S

FO

RE

ST

2

FO

INIK

AR

IA

AK

RO

UN

TA

KYPARISSIA RIVER

PA

RE

KK

LIS

IA

TO KE

LLA

KI

MO

UT

TI T

ISK

YP

AR

ISS

IAS

692m

S

1

S

1

1

TODIERONA

TO GERMASOGEIA

GE

RM

AS

OG

EIA

DA

M

S

TOPRASTEIO

TO

LE

ME

SO

S

INDEX

TRAIL

ASPHALT

ED R

OAD

LO

OSE S

URFA

CE R

OAD

STA

RTIN

G P

OIN

T

TRAIL

S1.

KYPA

RIS

SIA

(6.

1Km

s)2. G

ERM

ASO

GEIA

DAM

(Circ

ular

1.3Km

s)

ALT

ITUDES

UP T

O 2

00 M

ETRES

UP T

O 4

00 M

ETRES

UP T

O 6

00 M

ETRES

OVER 60

0 M

ETRES

S

01

23

SCALE

KM

S.

KM

S.

PEGEIA

- CHURCH

- HOTEL ESTABLISHMENTS

- ACCOMODATION IN TRADITIONAL HOUSES

- CAMPING SITE

- PIC-NIC SITE

- BROAD LEAF TREE

- CONIFER TREE

- ALTIMETRE

- FISHING

- VILLAGE

Cyprus Tourism OrganisationHead Office: 19, Leoforos Lemesou, Lefkosia (Nicosia)(Postal address:P.O.Box 24535, CY 1390 Lefkosia)Tel. + 357 22 69 11 00Fax. + 357 22 33 16 44E-mail: [email protected]

Lefkosia (Nicosia)Aristokyprou 11, Laïki Geitonia(East of Plateia Eleftherias)CY 1011 LefkosiaTel: 22 67 42 64

Lemesos (Limassol)Lemesos (Limassol)a) Agiou Andreou 142CY 3036 LemesosTel. 25 36 27 56, Fax. 25 74 65 96

b) Odos Georgiou A’ 22CY 4047 Lemesos, Potamostis Germasogeias, (eastern entrance of Dasoudi Beach)Tel. 25 32 32 11

LarnakaPlateia Vasileos PavlouCY 6023 Larnaka Tel. 24 65 43 22

PafosOdos Gladstonos 3CY 8046 PafosTel. 26 93 28 41

PolisVasileos Stasioikou A’ 2CY 8820 Polis ChrysochousTel. 26 32 24 68

Paralimni ProtarasProtara 14CY 5296 ParalimniTel. 23 83 28 65Fax. 23 83 28 64

Agia NapaLeoforos Kryou Nerou 12CY 5330 Agia NapaTel. 23 72 17 96

PlatresCY 4820 PlatresTel. 25 42 13 16

United KingdomCyprus Tourist Office17, Hanover StreetLondon W1S 1YPTel. 0207 569 8800Fax. 0207 499 4935E-mail: [email protected]

The NetherlandsCyprus VerkeersbureauKeizersgracht 424II, 1016 GC AmsterdamTel. (020) 624 4358Fax. (020) 638 3369E-mail: [email protected]

IsraelCyprus Tourism OrganisationTop Tower - 14th floor, Dizengoff Centre50 Dizengoff Str., - Tel-Aviv 64332Tel. 00-972-3-5257442Fax. 00-972-3-5257443E-mail: [email protected]

Produced by the CYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATION in co-operation with the FORESTRYDEPARTMENT of the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural ResourcesDesign: J&A RossidesPhotos: Forestry Department Archives, CTO Archives, F. FylaktouPrinted by: Cassoulides Masterprinters

151 01 12

THE TRAILS OF CYPRUS

Perhaps the best way to see a country is on foot. If you love the great outdoors, hiking is ideal. Nature trails go from near sea level past carob, mastic and eucalyptus climbing up to juniper and pine. Along the way you can see rare endemic plants, like the Cyprus orchid, tulip and crocus.

In the spring or autumn hundreds of migrating birds pass by overhead, as the island is on the migration path between Europe, Asia and Africa. Interesting geological formations are present here, from narrow deep valleys, caves and islets to gorges, and important breeding grounds for the green and loggerhead turtles.

With financial support from the Cyprus Tourism Organisation, the Forestry Department has created a network of 98 nature trails in various parts of the island, from Kavo Gkreko at the Southeastern end, to Akamas in the west.These have been carefully designed to cover areas with rich natural vegetation

and cultural interests.

Many of these trails have been networked, grouped in areas, and are well-sign

posted.

USEFUL ADVICE

1. Wear shoes suitable for walking on hard, rough terrains.2. Wear a hat and sunglasses and carry a water bottle at all times, throughout

the year.3. Entrance to monasteries and churches is permitted only to persons suitably

attired.4. Respect the natural environment. It is forbidden to: dispose of litter; cut wild flowers and other plants; cause damage to any structures; you must take care not to cause fires.

The above acts contravene the provisions of the Forestry Act and transgressors will be prosecuted.5. In Cyprus there are 8 species of snakes, of which only two are dangerous to

man. In case of a snake bite by the Blunt nosed viper Macrovipera lebetina cypriensis and the Montpellier snake Malpolon monspessulanus insignitus, medical attention should be sought immediately. Wells are the most dangerous spots.

6. The picnic sites contain sanitary facilities and drinking water and most also have facilities for barbecues.

7. Any comments or suggestions must be addressed to:a) Forestry DepartmentLeoforos Louki Akrita, CY 1414 Lefkosia (Nicosia), Tel.: 22 805510b) Cyprus Tourism Organisation.

8. In case of a forest fire or emergency only call at once 1407 (24 hours).

9. In case of injury call 112 or 199.

CYPRUSTOURISMORGANISATION

Documents

Cyprus Nature Trails