Most people don’t realize how many amazing opportunities for hiking there are in Cyprus. Right in the middle of the island are the Troodos mountains, and the landscape is actually very hilly.
Table of Contents
- 10 Best Hikes in Cyprus
- 1. Avakas Gorge Trail
- 2. Aphrodite Trail
- 3. Agioi Saranta
- 4. Cape Greco Loop
- 5. Caledonia Waterfalls Trail
- 6. Madari Circular Hike
- 7. Aphrodite Rock Trail
- 8. Panagia Tis Agapis Loop
- 9. Atalante Trail Loop
- 10. Artemis Loop
- Things To Know About Hiking in Cyprus
- Hiking in Cyprus: FAQs
- In Closing
One of the best things about the hikes in Cyprus is that they are often based in, or close to, the lovely Cypriot villages in the hills. So you can go for a hike and stop off at a taverna, or for a glass of wine in the nearby town as part of your journey.
I spent around 4 months exploring Cyprus and was super surprised at the opportunities to walk and be amongst nature. I really had it down as a beach-only island, but I was so wrong! Hiking is one of the best things to do in Cyprus for sure.
10 Best Hikes in Cyprus
During my time in Cyprus, I went on many hikes around the Island. I would say I have a medium fitness level, but I’ve included hikes in Cyprus that I found tricky, easy, and just the right level of challenge to give you an idea of difficulty.
I’ve narrowed my list down to 10 hikes in Cyprus, and I’ve based it on the views, accessibility, and amenities in the area (as I love going for a coffee, and some tasty food after a good walk!).
1. Avakas Gorge Trail
Akavas Gorge is one of the more challenging hikes in Cyprus, but the views are worth the effort. This is one of the top places to visit in the country, and for good reason.
The Gorge is located in the heart of Akamas National Park, 16 kilometers west of Paphos. The Gorge is 3 kilometers long in total, and its walls reach 30 meters in height at some points. It was originally carved by a river, and so you’ll find plenty of rocks to scramble over.
Avakas Gorge is awash with flora and fauna, so there’s plenty to see and explore – it’s one of my favorite hiking trails in Cyprus. It also feels like an untouched part of the world, which adds to the experience.
Given the terrain, the temperatures can get very high in summer. In winter, the water levels make it almost impossible to tackle, so make sure to check the conditions before you set off. Have a look at our guide to the best time to visit Cyprus, here.
It’s great fun for experienced hikers. Make sure to take plenty of water and sunscreen. If you’re well-prepared, you’re rewarded with one of the best summer hikes in Cyprus.
Trail Details and Information
- Location: Start at the Avakas Gorge Road.
- Length 8.2 kilometers or 5 miles
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: 305 meters
2. Aphrodite Trail
Akamas National Park is home to some of the best hiking in Cyprus, and the Aphrodite Trail is right up there.
It combines incredible views over the coastline and the park with a trip to the famous Blue Lagoon, which is the perfect place to cool off.
Generally, the loop starts at Aphrodite Baths, which are just outside the national park and well worth a visit alone. From here, you’ll take a 7.7-kilometer trail into Akamas National Park. Part of the trail will follow the coastline and pass the Blue Lagoon.
From there, you’ll head further inland and up to the top of Mouttis Sotiras where you’ll have some of the best views on the island.
It’s one of the best-marked Cyprus trails, but it’s definitely more challenging than other Cyprus treks on this list. The climb up Mouttis Sotiras is quite steep, and the ground can be loose.
That said, it’s not impossible, and with the right footwear and moderate fitness, you’re all set to enjoy one of the best day hikes in Cyprus.
Trail Details and Information
- Location: Start at Aphrodite Baths
- Length: 7.7 kilometers or 4.8 miles
- Duration: Around 3 hours
- Type of Trail: Loop Trail
- Elevation Gain: 394 meters
3. Agioi Saranta
If you’re staying on the east coast, then this excellent out-and-back route is one of my favorite Cyprus walking trails on this side of the island.
You’ll start from the popular tourist town of Protaras before heading inland on a 10-kilometer hike through the Agii Saranta forest.
For me, the highlight of this Cyprus hiking trail is the impressive Agioi Saranta church. You’ll be met by a little blue door in the rock face and once you head inside, you’ll see exactly why this church is one of my favorites on the island.
It’s built into the cave, with a skylight letting in plenty of light and illuminating the inside. It’s a unique spot on the island.
As well as the church, this is also one of the best sunset hikes in Cyprus, so head up in the evening and enjoy spectacular views for a magical end to the day.
Trail Details and Information
- Location: Start in the popular holiday town of Protaras
- Length 10 kilometers or 6.2 miles
- Duration: Around 2.5 hours of walking
- Type of Trail: Generally out and back, with an alternative route for part of the way back
- Elevation Gain: 193 meters
4. Cape Greco Loop
Another of my favorite east coast hiking trails in Cyprus is the gentle Cape Greco loop. Whereas the last trail took us inland, this one focuses on the incredible coastline and stunning views over the ocean.
This is one of the best easy hikes in Cyprus if you’re looking for a more gentle walk, whilst still seeing the best that the island has to offer.
You’ll set off on this 4 km hike from near Ayia Napa, and it’ll take you into the heart of Cape Greco national park. The park stretches along the coastline and is home to some of the most impressive cliffs in Cyprus.
The water here is also incredibly blue, and it’s here where you’ll find the second blue lagoon in Cyrpus (after Akamas).
The highlight for me is the cave windows. From the top of the cliffs, near the main car park at Cape Greco, is a small, hidden trail that takes you below the cliff edge and into a cave carved into the rock.
From here, there’s a large circular window, known as Cyclops’ Cave, that looks out over the ocean.
This straightforward trail is a great introduction to hiking in Cyprus. Head out at sunrise or sunset for some amazing views – don’t forget your camera!
Trail Details and Information
- Location: Start at Konnou Avenue, close to Ayia Napa
- Length: 2.6 kilometers or 1.6 miles
- Duration: Around 40 minutes plus time spent at the cliffs and Cyclops’ Cave
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: 64 meters
5. Caledonia Waterfalls Trail
This gentle stroll is one of the first hikes in Cyprus that I did while I was living there, and it’s still one of my favorites.
You can start at either end of the 3-kilometer trail, and the falls are in the middle. I prefer starting near the trout farm at Pano Platres. You can park on the road and fill your water bottle at the natural water tap here.
It’s a gentle hike along a 1.5-kilometer trail to Caledonia Falls through the woodland. It’s one of the best waterfall hikes in Cyprus, and the falls themselves are really impressive.
They stand at over 12 meters in height and you can enjoy the cool water at the bottom, or climb up to the top of the falls for spectacular views.
The out-and-back trail is 3 kilometers in total and takes around an hour to complete. I would recommend heading out early as it gets very popular, especially at the weekends.
It’s not particularly challenging and there aren’t a lot of ascents, so walking shoes or sturdy trainers are fine. It’s also a great option if you have kids, as there’s plenty to explore in the woodlands on the way to the falls.
Trail Details and Information
- Location: Start at either end of the trail, I prefer starting at Pano Platres
- Length 3 kilometers or 1.9 miles from end to end – the waterfalls are midway
- Duration: 1 hour
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: 150 meters
6. Madari Circular Hike
The best hikes in Cyprus are found in the Troodos Mountains, and the Madari Circular is one of the jewels in the crown.
This moderately challenging 14-kilometer loop is perfect for experienced hikers who enjoy a reasonable challenge with rewarding views throughout.
You’ll start out at the local village of Spilia which is located in the Madari mountain range. From here, the route is well-marked and takes you through the mountains up to the Madari Fire Lookout Station. Here, you’ll have beautiful and uninterrupted views of the mountains.
This is one of the best hiking trails in Cyprus for avid walkers, as the trail is well-marked and in good condition. It’s a challenging but rewarding trek, and it’s relatively quiet, so you may even have the trail to yourself.
Make sure to take plenty of supplies with you, including water and sunscreen, and enjoy one of my favorite Cyprus day hikes in the mountains.
Trail Details and Information
- Location: Start at the mountain town of Spilia and follow the trail markers for Madari
- Length: 14 kilometers or 8.7 miles
- Duration: Around 5 hours
- Type of Trail: Loop
- Elevation Gain: 761 meters
7. Aphrodite Rock Trail
This beautiful coastal trail near Paphos will take you to the famous Aphrodite’s Rock. Legend has it that those that swim around the rock three times will be granted eternal beauty. That’s not the only reason it’s one of my favorite things to do in Paphos, honest!
Even if you don’t fancy getting wet, this gentle trail along the coastline will give you some spectacular views over the Rock and the sea beyond.
It’s also one of the best spots on the island to watch the sunset. There are various benches along the trail, so head up here in the evening and take a seat for the best show on the island.
The trail itself is well-marked along formed trails that follow the coast in both directions. There are lots of little loops off the main trail if you want to explore, and they’re all within sight of Aphrodite’s Rock, so you can’t go too far wrong.
This is one of my favorite sunset hikes in Cyprus, and it’s perfect for the whole family, from either Paphos or Limassol.
Trail Details and Information
- Location: Start at the car park at Aphrodite’s Rock
- Length: 9 kilometers or 5.6 miles
- Duration: 2 hours
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: 124 meters
8. Panagia Tis Agapis Loop
A trek around the gentle to moderate Panagia Tis Agapis Loop is one of my favorite walking trails in Cyprus when I’m in Larnaca.
This 6-kilometer loop starts from the charming local village of Vavla before heading north to Panagia Tis Agapis church. The church is traditionally stone built and has a fascinating history. There’s no other church bearing the name, Our Lady of Love, in the world.
The church marks the halfway point of this trail and is a lovely spot to take a break. It’s a popular church, but the trail itself is usually pretty quiet.
On the way back from the church, the trail follows a little stream before looping up onto the ridgeline for some incredible views over the neighboring countryside.
Best of all, once you have finished this lovely hike, you can head to one of my favorite wineries in Cyprus, Christoudia Winery, which is located just up the road.
Trail Details and Information
- Location: Start in the center of Vavla where the trail is marked
- Length: 6 kilometers or 3.7 miles
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Type of Trail: Loop
9. Atalante Trail Loop
The Atalante Trail loop is an incredible trail high in the Troodos Mountains, circling Mount Olympus. It’s one of the most incredible places to hike in Cyprus.
The UNESCO-recognized Troodos National Forest Park is packed full of rivers, springs, pine forests, mountains, and incredible views. It’s one of the coolest landscapes in the country; creating some of the best trekking in Cyprus.
This 14-kilometer loop will show you everything the National Forest Park has to offer. It circles around the beautiful Mount Olympus and takes you through some incredible forests.
You’ll trek through the black pine and juniper forest, which is home to the oldest tree on the island. It’s estimated to be over 800 years old.
The trail is at an altitude of around 1700 meters above sea level. However, it’s a relatively flat trail with a very well-marked and well-maintained route. It’s therefore accessible to all levels of hikers.
If you love hiking, then you have to head to the National Forest Park for some of the best hiking in Cyprus – it can’t be missed!
Trail Details and Information
- Location: Start in the town of Troodos
- Length: 14 kilometers or 8.7 miles
- Duration: 5 hours
- Type of Trail: Loop
10. Artemis Loop
My final trek is one of the best winter hikes in Cyprus as we return to the Troodos National Forest Park.
This 8-kilometer loop is a moderately challenging hike through the National Forest again. This time, it’s at a slightly higher altitude, meaning you’ll explore some of the more varied geological features of the mountains.
There are old mines to be discovered as well as a huge range of flora and fauna. This trek heads through the forest and is a slightly more shaded walk, so it’s a good escape from the hot sun during summer.
During the winter months, you can explore the snowy mountains and even take a ski lift to the top for the best views.
It’s one of the best treks in Cyprus during winter in my opinion. You can hike through snow-covered forests in the morning and head down to the beach in the afternoon. The perfect way to spend the colder months.
Trail Details and Information
- Location: Start at the Cyprus Ski Club car park
- Length: 8 kilometers or 5 miles
- Duration: 2 hours
- Type of Trail: Loop
- Elevation Gain: 176 meters
Things To Know About Hiking in Cyprus
Hiking in Cyprus is an incredible way to get to know the island and escape the popular tourist spots. It’s also a great place to trek as the weather is reasonably consistent and the trails and well-marked and clear.
However, if it’s your first time enjoying these hikes around Cyprus, then consider the following to keep yourself safe and have the best time.
Be Snake Aware
No need to be bear-aware when hiking in Cyprus, but you should keep your eye out for snakes.
There are 8 different types of snakes on the island. The most dangerous, and only potentially fatal snake, is the blunt-nosed viper. All snakes are more active in the summer so be sure to keep to the trails and stay alert.
The Cypriot Ministry of Agriculture has produced a useful guide to the snakes, so you know what to look out for.
Check The Weather Before Heading Out
As I mentioned above, the weather is fairly consistent. However, the weather can vary between the coast and inland, so check the weather of your destination before you leave.
For example, in the summer, the weather inland and in the Troodos Mountains can be up to 10 degrees Celsius colder in the mountains than on the coast. In the winter, this difference is greater with snow in the mountains, whilst people are on the beach at the coast.
Keep Hydrated
It’s important when hiking in Cyprus, as with anywhere in the world, to stay hydrated. Whilst the temperature can drop, it’s still hot and you’re naturally going to be more active. Many of the trails are on coastlines or mountain ridges, where there’s very little shade.
A lot of the Cyprus walking trails are in remote areas and so often the only shops you’ll find will be at the start point, if at all. So stock up before you set off.
The Trails Can Be Slippery
Cyprus does not get a lot of rainfall, so the trails are often made of loose and dry stones and soil. Ensure you wear sturdy and appropriate footwear with ankle support to keep yourself safe.
Also, make sure you stay aware of your surroundings. The trails in Cyprus are well-marked, but they are often not roped near cliff edges, so keep an eye on yourself and others in your party.
Follow Proper Trail Etiquette
As with anywhere, be respectful of the amazing hiking trails in Cyprus and follow proper trail etiquette. Don’t leave any trash, be respectful of wildlife, and stick to the trails where possible.
Equally, look out for others on the trail and be friendly. You can meet some amazing people on the Cyprus trails.
Hiking in Cyprus: FAQs
Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about hiking around Cyprus.
The Caledonia Waterfalls trail is one of the most popular hikes in Cyprus. It’s a relatively easy woodland walk, ending at an impressive waterfall. It’s great for families and kids as there’s plenty to explore along the way.
The Aphrodite Rock loop is an easy and popular hike in Cyprus. It also includes one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cyprus – Aphrodite’s Rock. The trail is well-marked and easygoing for adults and kids alike.
Yes, there are two excellent waterfall trails in Cyprus. The Caledonia Waterfalls Trail is very popular and well worth a trip. You can also explore the Millomeris Waterfall Trail which is great, and enjoy a dip in the pool when you get there.
Light, breathable clothing is recommended when hiking in Cyprus as it will be hot. Wear sturdy shoes with ankle support, as the dry ground can be loose. Take an extra layer, wherever you are going. Temperatures drop inland, so it’s best to be prepared.
For me, the Atalante Trail Loop is one of the most beautiful trails in Cyprus. You’ll enjoy stunning views over Mount Olympus and the surrounding mountains whilst passing through beautiful black pine forests.
If you are well-prepared then no, hiking in Cyprus is not dangerous. Ensure you take plenty of water and sunscreen and stick to the trails. The only dangerous animal is snakes, which generally stay away from the trails. Take a look above for more information about the Cyprus snakes.
In Closing
There are so many great hikes in Cyprus to enjoy. If you’re going in the summer, avoid the hottest points of the day, and head up high, as it will be a lot cooler up there. It’s a great way to escape the heat!
In the winter, hiking in Cyprus is the perfect activity to do as you’re not as likely to be by the beach all the time, and it’s the perfect way to see the beauty of the island.
If you’re a keen hiker, I hope this gives you a few ideas of some great hiking areas in Cyprus.
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