Island of Aphrodite

Meeting the group in the morning at Larnaca airport. Depending on the arrival schedule of participants, the daily routine may vary. Our campsite is just a 15-minute walk from the airport, so even if you arrive late in the evening, there will be no problems getting there.

After arrival, a walk around the city of Larnaca is planned, visiting its main attractions, including the port, Salt Lake, Old Town, and the unique Church of St. Lazarus. The lake is protected by the Waterfowl Convention. After all, it is to him that flamingos fly to spend time. Not far from the lake is the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque. According to some sources, it is considered one of the most important Islamic shrines. There is a legend that it was built on the site of the death of the nurse of the Prophet Muhammad himself.

Overnight in tents in a eucalyptus grove near the lake. We enjoy the amazing sunset and landscapes of flat Cyprus.

This day will not be particularly difficult. We get used to the local climate and enjoy nature. After breakfast we take a short bus ride to one of the largest cities in Cyprus, Limassol. After it, we will move into the depths of the island, to the Troodos mountain range itself, from which our mountain journey will begin.

In the afternoon, a radial trek along the Artemis Trail is planned. We walk lightly, without backpacks, and admire the unique landscapes with a waterfall and relict plants. Overnight in tents near the famous Kykkos Monastery.

The morning will begin with a visit to the ancient monastery of Kykkos, one of the main shrines of the island. It is believed that it is here that the world-famous icon of the Virgin Mary of Kikos is preserved. According to legend, it was written by the Holy Apostle Luke himself.

The highlight of this day is the unusual arched bridges, lost in the middle of the forest. At the end of the fifteenth century, the ruler of the island, Caterina Cornaro, gave leadership of the country to the Venetians. They were not at a loss and began to export all the most valuable things from Cyprus, including minerals mined in the mountains. For convenience, they built bridges, which have remained in perfect condition to this day. Today we will be able to see three bridges: Kelefos, Elia and Roudia, and then we will enjoy nature near the Diarizos River.

On this day we will walk along a picturesque path to the village of Vretsiya. After the conflict in 1974, this settlement passed to Greece, but its inhabitants abandoned it. We won’t stay here either and will go further to the village of Galatoria. It is quite habitable. There is an organic dairy store and a winery here.

Then we move to the town of Polis. Many years ago, one of the strongest and richest ancient states was located here. Today it is a resort that is perfect for a calm and measured southern holiday. Here we can feel the whole flavor of the island, walking along the quiet streets and going down to the clean sandy beaches for which this resort is famous.

On this and the next few days, we will pass through the territory of the national park located on the Akamas Peninsula. It is said that this place was named after Theseus' father, Akamas, who came to the island after the end of the Trojan War.

The tents remain at the campsite, and we set out lightly along the Aphrodite trail. Winding along narrow paths with gorgeous sea views, we will reach the Baths of Aphrodite. It is believed that this is where the goddess of love and beauty loved to walk and take baths. The meeting with Adonis allegedly also took place here.

According to legend, the water in the bath still has healing properties and can prolong beauty. This grotto truly amazes with its sophistication. The water slowly flowing down its walls collects into a transparent reservoir, cold and shallow.

In the evening, if you wish, you can make another outing - to the Bay of the Source of Love (Fontana Amorosa). Seascapes, white cliffs and of course a beautiful legend...

This day will be entirely devoted to a walk through the Akamas Nature Reserve. Stunning examples of flora and fauna have been preserved here. More than twenty species of reptiles and one hundred and seventy species of birds live here. In the reserve you can see the Glaukopsuche butterfly, which is considered the unspoken symbol of the island of Cyprus.

Today we will continue our journey, admiring the expanses of the sea and the amazing landscapes of the bays. On the way we will meet olive groves and several mountains covered with centuries-old pine trees.

Then we move to the city with the catchy name of Paphos. Here we will visit the Tombs of the Kings, an open-air archaeological museum, the underground church of St. Solomonia, Petra tou Romiou Bay, where, according to legend, the goddess Aphrodite herself was born from the waves of the sea. Those interested can visit the Bird Park or go diving (most of the attractions are paid).

You can take return tickets from Larnaca for the evening of this day. Or you can stay in Cyprus for a couple more days. The hike in Cyprus is completed and now you can relax one more time))