-Travel through an unspoilt part of the Mediterranean
-Wander the harbour front and narrow cobbled back streets in Kyrenia
-Walk through stunning countryside and follow quiet mountain trails
Magical Kyrenia
Without doubt,Kyrenia is the ideal base for exploration due to its central (and beautiful) location. The harbour is one of the most attractive anywhere in the Mediterranean,dominated by its Byzantine castle and backed by a 1000m high mountain range-it is the perfect place to while away the evening.We take countryside paths from the hillside village of Bellapais and its famous monastery and up to the Crusader castle of St Hilarion,before winding down to the coastal plains on century old tracks.
Famagusta & Salamis
We spend a day exploring the city of Famagusta and surrounding area,including the ruined city of Salamis (optional).In Famagusta, Crusader,Venetian and Ottoman architecture reflects the legacy of previous invaders and the strategic position of Cyprus over the centuries.The city is home to some of the most impressive medieval architecture in the Mediterranean whilst further north the ruined Graeco-Roman city of Salamis is testament to a history stretching back at least a further millennia before.
Forest Trails
For centuries the high mountains have been a place of refuge and fortification and our walks offer exquisite views as we visit both Kantara and Buffavento castles.Trails lead us through pine forests to an ancient Armenian monastery as we walk along the spine of this breathtaking range,from where on a clear day the snow-capped mountains of Lebanon can be seen.A wonderful trip for lovers of the great outdoors.
Itinerary:
Day 1 Join Bellapais near Kyrenia. 2 Drive to Bellapais, visit abbey; drive to Nicosia for visit before returning to Kyrenia to relax or explore Kyrenia Castle (optional). 3 Transfer to St Hilarion castle; walk to Ilgaz via Karaman.4Drive to Kantara; walk to castle; drive via Bogaz beach to Kyrenia. 5 Sightseeing to Famagusta with optional visit to Salamis or chance to relax on beach.6Visit to Buffavento Castle; walk in Besparmak range.7Walk from Alevkaya to Armenian Monastery.8 Tour ends Kyrenia.
Accommodation: 7nts hotel staying at the comfortable Bellapais Monastery or similar which is a hillside retreat near the village of Bellapais; 7 breakfasts & 5 picnic lunches included.
Transport: On Foot/Bus.
Comment: Walking is graded as easy to moderate avoiding the hottest times of the year.This tour combines beautiful scenery with the fascinating remains of the Ottomans,Crusaders and Byzantines. Remember it is always possible to opt out of any walk and spend time exploring Kyrenia or relaxing on a nearby beach.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus driver.
Trip Reference: LNC