Cycling in Cyprus
Let sunshine soothe your soul as the scent of pine, sea air and wild herbs fill your lungs. Cycling in Cyprus is all about sending senses into overdrive. Hundreds of kilometres of vehicle wide gravel tracks, winding paths through forests and gnarly off road dirt trails, make the island a must for mountain bikers. Road cyclists will be in their element too, with paved roads winding up into mountains, down through narrow village streets and onwards to the flat terrain around the coast.
Self guided itineraries put you in control of your pedals. Built in GPS directions, maps and route cards allow you to explore with confidence. Local B&Bs make for a warm welcome as well as a hearty breakfast to see you off each morning. You can cycle from one accommodation to the next or stay put for an entire week or more. Take advantage of daily transfers to the start of trailheads, usually at its highest point. Luggage will also be transferred separately so as to be ready and waiting for you when you reach your next destination. Cycling in Cyprus lets you click through the gears on and off road, from mountains to forests, villages to beaches - bliss.
Regional variations
Allow the wild and untamed Akamas Peninsula to entice you into pedalling around its flat and easy going coastline or perhaps the 30km stretch across the rugged Akamas Ridge would be more your thing? Either way, cycling in Northwest Cyprus is as legendary as the Baths of Aphrodite. Follow the coastline up and eastwards, past Cape Kormakitis, and you'll eventually come to the seaside villages west of Kyrenia. Places like Kormacit, Sadrazam, Korucam, Lapta and Karsiyaka are ideal for caffeine-fuelled rest stops. Inland from Kyrenia, the Five Finger Mountains and Besparmak Trail await; although at the far northeastern tip of the island, the Karpasia Peninsula, sandy, dusty trails conjure secluded cycling with not a soul in sight. From the steep slope to Mount Olympus, within the centrally-located Troodos Mountains, to free flowing Paphos forest paths descending to the coast; cycling in Cyprus mixes it up like a midday meze with Zivania chasers.
Tried and tested trails
Best time to go cycling
Spring signals cycling season in Cyprus. From March and April onwards you’ll find ideal conditions without the heat and crowds associated with summer. The Akamas headland is in full bloom to send senses into sublime submission. The sea may not be quite swimmable in spring although after a good day in the saddle there’s no better way to freshen up. Early starts are needed if you are cycling in Cyprus during the summer, and remember: the higher you climb, the cooler it gets. First to the top of Mount Olympus, anyone? Autumn is another solid time of year for cycling and the sea will be bath-warm, so don’t forget your swimming togs.
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What to look forward to
Mountain mouflon, wheeling vultures, pockets of wild roses, strawberries, sage and rosemary. Abandoned villages inhabited by goats. Vasilikon vineyard. Orchids adorning the Akamas headland. Pine, cedar and golden oak forests. The views from the top of Mount Olympus and either side of Akamas Ridge. The Baths of Aphrodite. Turtles on Lara beach. Almond blossom and citrus groves. Fields of wheat, carob trees and juniper bushes. Sea coves and secret grottoes. Amazing Cypriot breakfasts: yoghurt, nuts and honey followed by freshly grilled halloumi, tomatoes, cucumber, olives and freshly made sesame bread. Early morning stops for coffee and cake. Panniers packed with picnic produce: sesame bread, feta cheese, juicy tomatoes, ultra fresh oranges and island-made peanut bars (not the imported versions).
Staying safe
Cycling without a helmet is not recommended no matter where you are; Cyprus is no different. The same can be said for being prepared so pack panniers with waterproofs, energy bars and suntan cream, just to be on the safe side. First aid kits are essential both for cyclists and bikes. Stick in a spare inner tube and bike tools suitable for carrying out minor repairs. Always carry a fully charged mobile phone and let someone know where you’re going and when you’re intending to be back. Common sense, really. Cycling on an organised self guided tour is definitely the best way to stay safe. Luggage will be transferred, GPS routes will be available and an emergency contact is yet another boost for sensible cyclists. Have fun!
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