Your dedicated driver is confirmed for your arrival today at Larnaca International Airport (or Ercan Airport). They will greet you and provide immediate, direct transfer to Kyrenia for your hotel check-in. The afternoon schedule has been intentionally reserved to allow for essential rest and post-flight recovery. If you feel ready for activity, a relaxed, introductory stroll is highly recommended.

Accommodation: Kyrenia

Meal: Dinner

Morning Transfer and Trail Commencement

The morning begins with a comfortable transfer to the historic mountain village of Bellapais. Upon arrival, we commence the Bellapais Trail, a designated route initiating along the narrow village streets before transitioning onto forest tracks that ascend the mountainside.

The Bellapais Trail Ascent

The trail undulates across double-track dirt roads, featuring sections with steep inclines and loose gravel, classifying this hike as a moderate challenge requiring attention and appropriate fitness. A key reward of the ascent is reached after the first kilometer, where the trail leads to a dedicated viewing platform offering expansive panoramic views of the eastern Kyrenia coastline. On exceptionally clear days, the distant Taurus Mountains of Turkey are visible across the Mediterranean Sea. The final section of the trail provides a unique and rarely seen perspective, approaching the Bellapais Monastery complex from the east.

Village Refreshment and Cultural Sites

A well-deserved post-hike lunch will be served in the village of Bellapais. Following the meal, there will be time to appreciate several key local monuments and cultural sites, including the former residence of British author Lawrence Durrell and the Historic Olive Mill.

Afternoon Historical Immersion

The afternoon itinerary continues with a dedicated visit to the Bellapais Monastery itself. This exquisite 13th-century site is widely renowned as a masterpiece of Gothic architecture in Cyprus. Guests will be granted ample time for independent, in-depth exploration of the serene cloisters and grounds before concluding the day's program with a comfortable return transfer to the hotel.

Accommodation: Kyrenia

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

Key Trail Notes 📝

Trail Overview

This itinerary is built around the Bellapais Trail, a designated 11.5 kilometer route that begins in the historic mountain village of Bellapais. The trail is generally classified as Easy despite some challenging sections, and the approximate time required for the hike itself is 4-5 Hours. The day concludes with a return transfer to your accommodation in Kyrenia.

Core Focus

The primary focus of this day is the blend of historic Gothic architecture and mountain trekking. You'll experience a unique approach to the Bellapais Monastery from the mountainside and enjoy panoramic views of the Kyrenia coastline and the distant Turkish coast on clear days.

Terrain & Gear

The trail is of Moderate difficulty due to the terrain. It begins on narrow village streets before transitioning to double-track dirt roads that ascend the mountainside. Hikers should anticipate sections with steep inclines and loose gravel, requiring attention and appropriate fitness. Given the challenge, sturdy hiking boots are essential. Bring water, as the ascent can be demanding, and a camera for the panoramic views.

Key Landmarks

The route incorporates several significant cultural and scenic points:

• Bellapais Monastery: An exquisite 13th-century masterpiece of Gothic architecture, providing a rare view upon approach from the east.

• Viewing Platform: Located after the first kilometer of the ascent, it offers expansive panoramic views of the eastern Kyrenia coastline.

• Lawrence Durrell’s Former Residence: A cultural site in the village of Bellapais.

• Historic Olive Mill: A local monument to be appreciated post-hike.

Schedule & Pacing

The hike commences following a morning transfer to Bellapais. The trail itself is a steady ascent and undulation that will take approximately 4-5 hours. The cultural portion of the day follows the hike, allowing for a post-hike lunch and dedicated visits to local sites, including in-depth exploration of the Monastery in the afternoon before the return transfer to your hotel.

The Start: Karmi Village

The day commences with a comfortable transfer from your hotel to Karmi Village (Karaman), the picturesque starting point of the highly rewarding St. Hilarion Castle Trail. Nestled approximately 1,000 ft above sea level, Karmi provides the initial setting for this challenging circular hike through the Kyrenia Mountains of North Cyprus.

The Ascent to St. Hilarion Castle

The route immediately begins its ascent along rugged, unspoiled slopes, often adorned with wildflowers and scented pine, leading to the trek's climax: the magnificent St. Hilarion Castle . This strategically perched Crusader fortress rewards the climb with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views spanning the entire Kyrenia coastline and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

The Return and Essential Gear

After exploring the castle's wards and the iconic "Queen's Window," a scenic picnic lunch will be taken. The return journey follows winding mountain trails, maintaining continuous stunning perspectives of the region. Please note that due to the rocky and uneven terrain, sturdy walking boots and ample hydration are essential for this memorable full-day adventure, which concludes with your transfer back to the hotel.

Accommodation: Kyrenia

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

Key Trail Notes 📝

Trail Overview

This itinerary is centered on the challenging St. Hilarion Castle Trail, a rewarding 10.5 kilometer Circular Hike through the Kyrenia Mountains. It is classified as Moderate in difficulty, requiring an estimated 4-5 Hours for the hike itself. The day begins and ends with transfers to and from your hotel in Kyrenia.

Core Focus

The core focus is achieving the magnificent St. Hilarion Castle to experience the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the entire Kyrenia coastline and the Mediterranean Sea. The hike also highlights the rugged, unspoiled natural beauty of the mountain slopes, which are often adorned with scented pine and wildflowers.

Terrain & Gear

This is a Challenging Mountain Ascent along rugged, unspoiled slopes. Due to the rocky and uneven terrain encountered on both the ascent and the winding return trails, sturdy walking boots are absolutely essential. Given the challenging nature of the climb, ample hydration (water) is crucial for this full-day adventure.

Key Landmarks

The route incorporates several memorable and strategic locations:

• Karmi Village (Karaman): The picturesque starting point, nestled approximately 1,000 ft. above sea level.

• St. Hilarion Castle: The strategic Crusader fortress and trek climax, offering the reward of panoramic views.

• "Queen's Window": An iconic feature within the castle wards that will be explored.

Schedule & Pacing

The day commences with a morning transfer to Karmi Village. The route involves an immediate and continuous ascent to the castle, followed by exploration and a scenic picnic lunch. The return journey follows winding trails, ensuring continuous stunning views before concluding with the return transfer to your hotel.

Independent Leisure or Optional Famagusta Tour

Today is reserved for independent leisure or the optional, fully guided Famagusta Tour.

Saint Barnabas Monastery and Museum

Should you choose the tour, following breakfast at your hotel, your professional guide will meet you to begin exploring some of Cyprus's most fascinating historical sites, starting with the revered Icon Museum and the Monastery of Saint Barnabas. This sacred site honors the patron saint of Cyprus, and its archaeological museum showcases remarkable artifacts, including pottery dating back to 4000 BC, Roman glassware, and delicate gold jewelry.

Ancient Salamis

Next, we proceed to the breathtaking ruins of the ancient city of Salamis; here, you can imagine a metropolis that once thrived with 150,000 inhabitants as you wander through its impressive Roman theatre and Gymnasium.

Famagusta's Walled City and Gothic Grandeur

We then arrive at the historic walled city of Famagusta, where our exploration begins at the formidable Ravelin before moving on to the awe-inspiring Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, originally the magnificent Cathedral of St. Nicholas. Our visit continues as we pass through the historic Porta del Mare (Sea Gate) and discover the dramatic Othello Castle, famously linked to Shakespeare's tragic tale.

The Poignant Spectacle of Varosha

We conclude our day with a poignant visit to Varosha, the once-bustling resort area now famously known as the "ghost town," which offers a powerful glimpse into recent history, before providing comfortable transfer back to your hotel in Kyrenia.

Accommodation: Kyrenia

Meal: Breakfast, Dinner

Early Start for a Full-Day Mountain Hike

The challenging full-day trek from Taşkent Piknik Alanı to Buffavento Castle requires an early morning start to ensure the main hiking and castle visit are completed before the midday heat. The journey begins with an initial hike of approximately two and a half to three hours through varied mountain terrain, leading to the final access road and trailhead just below the castle.

Navigating the Strenuous Ascent

After a brief rest, the most strenuous part begins: a steep, exposed ascent of 600 to 1,000 uneven, rocky steps, for which a hiking stick and excellent hydration (at least 3 liters of water per person) are critical.

Reward at the Byzantine Summit

Upon reaching the summit, hikers are rewarded with an hour and a half to freely explore the atmospheric Byzantine-era ruins, including the cisterns and chapel remnants, while soaking in the unforgettable 360-degree panoramic views of the Kyrenia mountain range and the Mediterranean Sea.

Descent and Final Leg

Since there are no facilities at the castle, a packed lunch should be enjoyed among the ruins before starting the careful descent. The return hike to the Taşkent Piknik Alanı parking area is estimated to take another two and a half hours, bringing the entire challenging, yet highly rewarding, adventure to a close by late afternoon.

Accommodation: Kyrenia

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

Key Trail Notes 📝

Trail Overview

This is a Challenging, Full-Day Trek from the Taşkent Piknik Alanı to the summit of Buffavento Castle. The total hiking distance is approximately 8 kilometers, requiring an estimated 4-5Hours of pure trekking time. This adventure is highly rewarding, culminating in the exploration of a magnificent Byzantine-era fortress.

Core Focus

The core focus is achieving the summit of Buffavento Castle to explore the remote and atmospheric Byzantine-era ruins and soak in the unforgettable 360-degree panoramic views of the Kyrenia mountain range and the Mediterranean Sea. The hike is designed to challenge hikers and ensure the castle visit is completed before the midday heat.

Terrain & Gear

The difficulty level is classified as Difficult due to the strenuous nature of the ascent. The initial journey involves varied mountain terrain, leading to the final access road. The most challenging section is the steep, exposed climb consisting of 600 to 1,000 uneven, rocky steps. A hiking stick is critical for stability on this portion, and excellent hydration is a necessity; hikers must carry at least 3 liters of water per person.

Key Landmarks

The main points of interest along this strenuous route include:

• Taşkent Piknik Alanı: The designated parking area and start/end point of the hike.

• Final Access Road/Trailhead: The rest point just below the castle where the rocky step ascent begins.

• Buffavento Castle Summit: The Byzantine ruins, including cisterns and chapel remnants, where a packed lunch will be enjoyed.

Schedule & Pacing

This trek requires an Early Start to complete the main ascent before the midday heat. The initial hike to the castle access road takes approximately 2.5 to3 hours. After the strenuous ascent, there is an hour and a half allocated for free exploration at the summit. The entire adventure concludes with the 2.5 hour return hike to the parking area by late afternoon.

Morning: Ascent, Forest Trails, and Historical Discovery

Your day begins with a hotel pick-up by your pre-arranged private transport. You'll enjoy a scenic drive up into the Kyrenia Mountain Range until you reach the starting point near the Alevkayası Forest Station (Chalevga). After a quick moment to prepare, the hike begins. The initial part of the trek involves a descent, leading you through lush, fragrant pine and cypress forests, often following a section of the main Besparmak Trail. The first major highlight is the arrival at the secluded Sourp Magar Armenian Monastery. You'll take time here to explore the centuries-old ruins, wandering through the silent courtyards and enjoying the stunning panoramic views that sweep across the northern coast. This is your opportunity to connect with the deep history of the mountains.

Midday: Lunch with a View and Continuing the Journey

Around midday, you will settle down near the monastery for a well-deserved picnic lunch. Everything is provided for you—a satisfying, pre-packed meal with local flavors, snacks, and ample bottled water. After lunch, the trek continues. The trail now follows the mountain’s contours on a path that is generally a gradual descent, though it still requires good footing and attention. You'll traverse varied forest tracks, experiencing the wild, unspoiled nature of the Kyrenia Range.

Afternoon: Rural Landscapes and Return Transfer

As the hike nears its end, the path will transition from deep forest into more open, rural landscapes as you approach the final destination. You will arrive at the pre-arranged pickup point near the village area of Charkeia (Çarkeya). Your transport will be waiting for you, ready to provide a comfortable ride back. After a brief rest and a final cool-down drink, you will begin the relaxing drive back to the coast.

The final phase of the day is the transfer back to your hotel, allowing you to relax after your moderately challenging journey, reflecting on the ancient history and natural beauty you experienced in the mountains. You will be dropped off directly at your accommodation.

Accommodation: Kyrenia

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

Key Trail Notes 📝

Trail Overview

This itinerary is built around a moderately challenging Point-to-Point Trek covering approximately 11 kilometers along the Kyrenia Mountain Range, with an estimated trekking time of 4-5 Hours. The day is a full-day experience, starting with a transfer from your hotel and concluding with a return transfer from the final destination near Charkeia.

Core Focus

The core focus is a blend of Historical Discovery and Forest Immersion. The trek emphasizes descending through lush, fragrant pine and cypress forests, following a section of the main Besparmak Trail, and exploring the secluded ruins of the centuries-old Sourp Magar Armenian Monastery .

Terrain & Gear

The hike is rated as Moderate difficulty. It begins with an initial descent, leading through the dense forest tracks. The path then follows the mountain contours, characterized by a gradual descent over varied forest tracks. Hikers must maintain good footing and attention throughout the journey. Given the 11 km length and potential uneven terrain, comfortable and supportive walking shoes are necessary. Ample bottled water is provided as part of the picnic lunch.

Key Landmarks

The route incorporates three major logistical and historical points:

• Alevkayası Forest Station (Chalevga): The starting point of the hike, high in the Kyrenia Range.

• Sourp Magar Armenian Monastery: The main historical highlight, offering silent courtyards and stunning panoramic views of the northern coast.

• Charkeia (Çarkeya): The village area near the final pre-arranged pickup point.

Schedule & Pacing

The hike begins immediately after a morning transfer to the trailhead. The first half is a descent culminating in the Monastery visit and a midday picnic lunch. The afternoon involves a continued gradual descent through forest and rural landscapes, concluding at the pickup point near Charkeia for the return transfer to your hotel by late afternoon.

Arrival and Cultural Immersion

The day begins with the Transfer from Hotel to Kormacit Village Centre. Upon arrival, the tour commences at the Village Centre, starting with a period of cultural immersion. This initial phase involves a walk through the streets to observe the unique Maronite architecture and visiting the small Ethnographical Museum to understand the local culture and history before beginning the hike.

Farmlands to Cape Point

The trail then heads west out of the village toward the agricultural area, passing by the Rancho del Vata Farm as a key landmark. From the farmlands, the route transitions onto a smaller track that leads directly to the coast. The most scenic part of the trek involves the specified seaside loop: the trail continues on the seaside until it reaches the dramatic Kormacit Cape Point. This viewpoint offers commanding views and serves as the designated halfway point for a Snack/Water Break.

Seaside Return and Village Finish

Following the rest, the return journey follows the coastline again, continuing along the seaside on an inner track that leads back through the open countryside and familiar routes to the village perimeter. The loop concludes back at the Kormacit Village Centre.

Phase 4: Conclusion and Departure

The final activity involves enjoying local Maronite lunch and hospitality at a traditional village restaurant. After the meal and a period of rest, the full-day experience concludes with the Transfer back to Hotel.

Accommodation: Kyrenia

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

Key Trail Notes 📝

Trail Overview

This is a Circular Loop Trail designed to provide a comprehensive, full-day experience. The hike covers an Approximate Distance of 10.5 kilometers and starts and finishes at the Kormacit Village Centre.

Core Focus

The primary focus of this itinerary is the unique combination of Maronite cultural immersion (exploring the village and museum) and an invigorating seaside coastal trek, including the dramatic scenery around Kormacit Cape Point.

Terrain & Gear

The trail uses a Mixed Terrain, navigating village streets, wider main farm tracks, smaller dirt roads, and specific seaside sections. Given the variety of surfaces, hikers should wear sturdy walking shoes. Essential gear includes water, a hat, sunscreen, and layers of clothing to account for changing coastal conditions.

Key Landmarks

Be sure to look out for these important points of interest along the route:

• Ethnographical Museum: For local culture.

• Rancho del Vata Farm: A key navigational landmark marking the transition to the coastal tracks.

• Kormacit Cape Point: The designated coastal viewpoint and turnaround point.

Schedule & Pacing

The itinerary is structured as a time-free experience, which allows for personal pacing and flexibility. The overall duration, including transfers and the dedicated local lunch break, requires planning for a full day.

Following the conclusion of our guided sightseeing program, you will receive a private transfer directly from Kyrenia to either Larnaca International Airport (LCA) or Ercan Airport (ECN), accommodating your itinerary for your onward flight or connecting journey.

Meal: Breakfast