Hiking Trails in Cyprus: Autumn Walks

After the summer heat, the temperatures become comfortable for outdoor walks, and the island's nature is painted in vibrant autumn colors.

In this blog, we have compiled popular and interesting routes for day hikes through the scenic regions of southern Cyprus: Paphos, Limassol, Troodos, Larnaca, Famagusta, and Nicosia. Regardless of your fitness level, you will find a suitable route and enjoy the autumn scenery of Cyprus.

Paphos Region Routes

The legendary city of Paphos is famous for its picturesque trails, which run through diverse landscapes: from coastal cliffs to shady forests. The region offers routes through mythological sites and historical ruins. For nature lovers, Paphos is a real discovery.

1. Aphrodite Trail

1. Length: 7.5 km
2. Difficulty: Medium
3. Description: This trail starts at the Baths of Aphrodite and follows the scenic slopes of the Akamas Peninsula, partially along the coast. The trail passes by the ruins of the Rigena Tower and the legendary 500-year-old oak tree. The coastal views are especially impressive in autumn.
4. Link to the trail

2. Adonis Trail

1. Length: 7.5 km
2. Difficulty: High
3. Description: This neighboring trail to the Aphrodite path, named after the goddess's lover, runs through a more challenging terrain. Along the way, you will encounter ancient ruins, pine and plane trees, some of which bloom in autumn. The views from the heights cover both the coast and the interior of Akamas.
4. Link to the trail

3. Avakas Gorge Trail

1. Length: 1.5 km
2. Difficulty: Medium
3. Description: This short yet thrilling route goes through an impressive gorge with steep cliffs. Along the trail, you can see rare plants and wildlife such as hares. During the rainy season, the gorge may fill with water, so appropriate footwear is needed to cross the path.
4. Link to the trail

Troodos Region Routes

The Troodos Mountains are known for their pine forests and rivers. Walks here allow you to escape the hustle and bustle, immersing yourself in nature's peace. By late autumn, you may even see real snow!

1. Artemis Trail

1. Length: 7 km
2. Difficulty: Easy
3. Description: This trail circles Cyprus's highest mountain, Olympus. Expect pine forests, fresh mountain air, and beautiful panoramic views. The trail is perfect for those seeking an easy yet scenic route.

2. Caledonia Trail

1. Length: 3 km
2. Difficulty: High
3. Description: The trail follows the Kryos Potamos River, leading to the picturesque Caledonia Waterfall. The trail is known for its steep climbs, but the coolness of the forest and the views of the waterfall make up for the challenges.
4. Link to the trail

3. Atalanti Trail (Atlantis Trail)

1. Length: 14 km
2. Difficulty: High
3. Description: A circular route for experienced hikers, passing through juniper groves and even a deserted mine. The trail is also famous for its breathtaking views of the Troodos Mountains. Allow a full day for this mini-adventure.
4. Link to the trail

4. Livadia Trail

Length: 1.5 km

Difficulty: Easy

Description: A short and easy route designed for walks with children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. The trail passes through the picturesque Troodos forests, mostly on flat terrain, and is equipped for wheelchair access.

Link to trail

Larnaca Region Routes

Larnaca offers both coastal and inland routes, ideal for long walks. Here, you can stroll along the promenades, admire the Salt Lake where pink flamingos appear in winter, and explore hills with magnificent sea views.

1. Larnaca Salt Lake Trail

Length: 11 km

Difficulty: Easy

Description: The trail circles the Larnaca Salt Lake, where pink flamingos can be seen in winter. Along the way, you’ll pass the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque and the Kamaras Aqueduct.

2. Oroklini Trail

1. Length: 8 km
2. Difficulty: Medium
3. Description: The trail runs through the Oroklini Hills, offering breathtaking views of Larnaca and the coastline. It's an excellent spot for picnics, with well-equipped areas along the route.
4. Link to trail

Famagusta Region Routes

Famagusta is known for its coastal trails near popular resorts. Walks here allow you to combine active leisure with beach time, with scenic sea views and marine caves making hiking in this area unforgettable.

1. Agia Anargyri Trail

Length: 4 km

Difficulty: Easy

Description: Starting from the Agia Anargyri Church, the trail passes the natural "Kamara tou Koraka" bridge and the famous sea caves of Cape Greco.

Link to trail

2. Prophet Elias to Konnos Trail

1. Length: 8.5 km
2. Difficulty: Easy
3. Description: This long but easy route begins at the Prophet Elias Church in Protaras and leads down to Konnos Beach.
4. Link to trail

3. Sea Caves Trail

1. Length: 3.5 km
2. Difficulty: Easy
3. Description: The route runs along the coast of Cape Greco, past the famous sea caves. This is an ideal place for nature lovers and unique landscapes.
4. Link to trail

Trails in the Limassol Region

Limassol offers trails that pass through mountain ranges and dense forests. This region is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature and explore Cyprus's forests with their unique flora.

1. Agios Theodoras Pine Forest Trail

1. Length: 13.5 km
2. Difficulty: Moderate
3. Description: The trail goes through a dense pine forest and vineyards. This is a long but pleasant route, ideal for nature lovers and beautiful scenery.
4. Link to trail

Trails in the Nicosia Region

Nicosia is a region where modern cities coexist with beautiful natural areas. National parks and geological formations provide excellent hiking opportunities.

1. Athalassa National Forest Park Trail

1. Length: 11.7 km
2. Difficulty: Easy
3. Description: The route passes through Athalassa National Forest Park and is suitable for both hiking and cycling. The paths are paved, making the route accessible to all ages. The park's pond is home to turtles and fish, while blue-eyed geese and other birds roam along the shore.
4. Link to trail

2. Latsia to Agios Georgios Trail

1. Length: 3.8 km
2. Difficulty: Easy
3. Description: A walk through unique geological formations with views of the valley and the city of Nicosia. Oysters and mollusk shells are everywhere! About a million years ago, the sea roared here. This route appeals to both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
4. Link to trail

Rules of Conduct in Nature

When you venture out on nature trails in Cyprus, it’s important to remember some rules of conduct. This not only helps preserve the island’s unique ecosystem but also ensures your hikes are safe and enjoyable:

1. 1. Don’t litter. Always take everything you brought with you.
2. 2. Be careful with fire. Cyprus’s forests and nature reserves are prone to wildfires, especially during dry periods. Never light fires on the trails, and don’t leave behind lit matches or cigarettes.
3. 3. Respect wildlife. Don’t feed or disturb wild animals. Plants, especially those that are rare or protected, are best captured on film.
4. 4. Dress appropriately. It’s recommended to wear closed shoes and comfortable clothing to protect yourself from rocks and plants.

Hiking in Cyprus is not only an opportunity to enjoy magnificent landscapes but also a chance to better understand the culture and history of the island. The trails take you through forests, mountains, ancient ruins, and coastal areas. Every walk opens new horizons and leaves unforgettable impressions. Time spent in nature brings a sense of freedom and tranquility, and autumn in Cyprus is the perfect time for such adventures. Pack your bag, choose a route, and set off to explore Cyprus!

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