With a favourable climate all year round, the great outdoors of the island is easily accessible, and offers a myriad of opportunities to take a journey through nature, history and culture, thanks to the numerous sign­posted paths and nature trails. A total of 52 designated walking trails have been created to highlight the beautiful landscapes and strong Mediterranean character of the island. By walking them, you can see a treasure trove of varied fauna and flora, as well as the remnants of the island’s mining heritage and other interesting monuments.

Whilst some trails are more challenging than others, they are all a delight for the senses ­ especially in the springtime months, when you can experience the sights, sounds and smells of nature in full bloom, and in all its vibrant glory.

Flora

There are 1.908 different plant species, subspecies, varieties, forms and hybrids that have been recorded in Cyprus to date. This number includes native and alien plants (exotic plants that are naturalized), but excludes cultivated plants. There are 142 endemic plants in Cyprus (found exclusively in Cyprus), which comprise the most important part of the island’s flora. Cyprus’ forests are mostly natural woodlands of great biodiversity and major ecological significance. Many of them have been classified as National Forest Parks and protected areas for flora and fauna, covering more than 70 percent of the NATURA 2000 network of the island.

The Calabrian pine (Pinus brutia) is the main forest tree found from the coastal area until an altitude of up to 1.200 – 1.400 metres, whilst the Black pine (Pinus nigra ssp. pallasiana) dominates in the higher reaches of Troodos.In large rivers and the areas surrounding them, the dominant trees are the oriental plane (Platanus orientalis) and the alder (Alnus orientalis), whilst there are other tree species found on the island on a smaller scale, such as the Cyprus cedar (Cedrus brevifolia) and the Mediterranean Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens).

Bush and shrubland also dominate the landscape. In middle and high elevations, the common bush species of golden oak (Quercus alnifolia) can be spotted on its own, in unmixed forests, or together with pines. In the lowlands you will find maquis shrubland, with dominant species the Phoenician juniper (Juniperus phoenicea), the (wild) olive tree (Olea europaea), the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua) and the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus), as well as the Calabrian pine. Whilst walking along Cyprus’ nature trails you will encounter some of the many endemic plants that are in danger of extinction ­ most of which have been included in the Berne Convention’s list of protected plants. Among these are:

• The skilla ­ a species of plant of the Hyacinthaceae family (Scilla morrisii)
• Loch’s Glory­of­the­snow (of Τroodos), (Chionodoxa lochiae)
• Lefkara’s ankle (Astragalus macrocarpus ssp. Lefkarensis)
• Kotschy’s orchid (Οphrys kotschyi)
• The Cyprus tulip (Tulipa cypria)

Fauna

Cyprus also has a wonderful variety of habitats suitable for many species of animal due to the variety of landscapes on the island ­ each with their own particular microclimate and topographical features ­ and the variety of terrains and geological substrates, as well as the diversity of forest and agricultural vegetation.

Among the noteworthy mammals found on the island are:

• The mouflon (Ovis gmelini ophion) ­ a wild sheep species, found only in Cyprus. It is also the largest wild mammal that exists on the island.
• The fox (Vulpes vulpes) ­ Cyprus’ only carnivorous mammal.
• The hedgehog (Hemiechinus auritus dorotheae) ­ an endemic subspecies and a shy and reclusive animal.
• Bats ­ a remarkable feature of Cypriot fauna, and one of the most peculiar types of mammals, with 19 different species found on the island.

Cyprus’ geographical position makes it one of the most important migratory natural habitats and international birdlife organisations consider it among the most important areas in the world for its biodiversity of birds. It is also a unique location in Europe for endemic birds.

The butterflies of Cyprus, which belong to the order leptidoptera, are also considered of particular interest, with 52 species on the island ­ nine of which are endemic to Cyprus.

Sights of Interest

Aside from the natural bounty you will find on the walking trails, some of the routes have been designed to give visitors the chance to discover Cyprus’ cultural heritage through various monuments that include Byzantine churches (UNESCO World Heritage Sites), Venetian bridges, mosques and other interesting sites.

Degree of Difficulty

All nature trails are divided into three categories of difficulty:

• Category 1: Easy trail, with gentle gradient. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
• Category 2: Average degree of difficulty, suitable for adults with fair­good fitness levels. Sudden changes in gradient (uphill and/or downhill), and/or course along narrow or rough terrain.
•  Category 3: High degree of difficulty. Route with difficult terrain such as sudden changes in gradient (uphill and/or downhill), course along particularly rough and/or slippery, and/or narrow and/or steep terrain. Suitable for adults with very good­excellent fitness levels. Unsuitable for young children

Find out More!

Summarised information for each of the 31 hiking trails can be found in this section of the website, whilst a more detailed brochure – which includes valuable advice and tips on how to hike safely and comfortably, as well as maps ­ is available to download here. For more detailed information for the full 52 designated trails from the Forestry Department, click here.

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Points of interest: The trail goes around Chionistra mountain at an altitude of 1,700­-1,750 metres, passing through dense areas of black pine trees (Pinus nigra subsp.pallasiana) and Foetid Juniper (Juniperus foeditissima). One of the largest trees ­ Foetid Juniper ­ is found on the trail; it is 800 years old. There are wonderful views of all the areas of the island. The entrance tunnel of the chrome mine ­ which has been out of service since 1982 is particularly interesting. The first finishing point of the trail is nine kilometres along the Troodos-Prodromos road. To continue on the trail you must cross the main road and walk on the forest road of Katoikies Chromiou towards Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis church for around 200m, where a wooden sign points your direction;  the trail is approximately parallel to the main road and ends at Troodos Square, where you will find the Environmental Information Centre of Troodos National Forest Park. A fountain with drinking water is located three kilometres from the starting point heading towards Troodos Square.

Flora: While hiking you can study the endemic plants: Golden oak (Quercus alnifolia), Manouthkia (Pterocephalus multiflorus subsp. multiflorus – an evergreen small shrub with pale pink flowers), Urse mint (Mentha longifolia subsp. cyprica), Troodos Alison  (Alyssum troodi).

Fauna: The main species of fauna found in the area are:

Mammals: Mouflon, Fox, hare, hedgehog.

Birds: Bonelli’s eagle, Eurasian jay, Wood pigeon, partridge, Cyprus warbler  (endemic), Cyprus wheatear (endemic).

Reptiles: Cyprus viper, Cyprus snake (endemic).

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Points of interest: This trail offers beautiful views of Polis Chrysochous, the Pafos (Paphos) Forest and the Akamas peninsula. The path runs past Pyrgos tis Rigainas (Queen’s Tower) and connects with the Smigies trail at Kefalovrysia (where there is a fountain of non­ potable water), and with the Afroditi trail at Pyrgos tis Rigainas. Also noteworthy is the 500 ­year­ old oak tree, which is located near the ruins of the tower. To return full circle, the trail follows the main road that connects the Loutra tis Afroditis (Baths of Aphrodite) with Polis for about 400 metres. At the starting point of the trail you can visit the Botanical Gardens of Akamas.

Flora: While hiking you can study the endemic plants: Cyprus Bosea (Bosea cypria), Shrubby knapweed (Ptilostemon chamaepeuce var. cyprius), Entire – Leaved Horehound (Acanthoprasium integrifolium), Sweet Marjoram (Origanum majorana var. tenuifolium), Cyprus Golden ­ Drop (Onosma fruticosa), Cyprus sage (Phlomis cypria var. occidentalis).

Fauna: The main species of fauna found in the area are:

Mammals: Fox, hare, hedgehog.

Birds: Wood pigeon, partridge, Cyprus warbler (endemic), Cyprus wheatear (endemic).

The forest of Akamas serves as a resting point for many migratory birds.

Reptiles: Cyprus viper, Cyprus lizard, Black whip Snake.

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Points of interest: Of special interest on this trail are the Loutra tis Afroditis (Baths of Aphrodite), where, according to legend, the Goddess of Love and Beauty used to take her baths. You will also pass by the ruins of Pyrgos tis Rigainas (Queen’s Tower), which are believed to belong to a Medieval monastery. Also noteworthy is a 500­ year­ old oak tree, which is located near the ruins of the tower. Along the trail you can enjoy excellent views of Cape Arnaoutis, Polis Chrysochous and Pafos (Paphos) Forest. There are two non­ potable water fountains along the trail; one near the ruins of Pyrgos tis Rigainas, and another between the Loutra tis Afroditis (Baths of Aphrodite) and Kakoskali. The trail connects with the Adonis trail, whilst at its starting point you can visit the Botanical Gardens of Akamas. 

Flora: While hiking you can study the endemic plants: Cyprus Golden – Drop (Onosma fruticosa), Cyprus sage (Phlomis cypria var. occidentalis).

Fauna: The main species of fauna found in the area are:

Mammals: Fox, hare, hedgehog.

Birds: Wood pigeon, partridge, Cyprus warbler  (endemic), Cyprus wheatear (endemic).

The forest serves as a resting point for many migratory birds.

Reptiles: Cyprus viper, Cyprus lizard, Black whip Snake.

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Points of interest: Initially, the trail offers beautiful views of the coastline of the Akamas peninsula to the west ­ including Lara Bay ­ and later on, to the east, with views of Chrysochous bay in the direction of Latsi, Polis, Pachyammos and Pafos (Paphos) forest. The longer route runs past the old mines, magnesium facilities, and abandoned kilns, and through a dense section of the Akamas forest. The trail also connects with the Adonis trail at Kefalovrisia, where you will find a non­ potable water fountain. At the starting point, the two routes are adjacent to the walking trail of Pissouromoutti. Both routes pass by the Piana fire lookout station of the Forestry Department.

Flora: While hiking you can study the endemic plants: Thyme (Thymus integer), Cyprus germander (Teucrium micropodiodes), Cyprus Golden – Drop (Onosma fruticosa), Entire – Leaved Horehound (Acanthoprasium integrifolium), Sweet Marjoram (Origanum majorana var. tenuifolium).

Fauna: The main species of fauna found in the area are:

Mammals: Fox, hare, hedgehog.

Birds: Wood pigeon, partridge, Cyprus warbler (endemic), Cyprus wheatear (endemic).

The Forest of Akamas serves as a resting point for many migratory birds.

Reptiles: Cyprus viper, Cyprus lizard, Black whip snake.

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Points of interest: There are many points of exceptional view along the trail, but the most impressive view is from the top of the hill. Here, you can seamlessly enjoy nature all around you (toward the south coast: Tzioni, Geranissos, Lara, Agios Georgios Pegeias, and toward the north coast: Chrysochou Bay). Part of the trail passes through a pine forest that offers shade on warm summer days, making the walk particularly unique and enjoyable. Smigies picnic site has drinking water flowing directly to the area from a spring.

Flora: While hiking you can study the indigenous plants: Phoenician juniper (Juniperus phoenicea), lentisk (Pistacia lentiscus), terebinths (Pistacia terebinthus), rockroses (Cistus creticus, Cistus monspeliensis etc), wild thyme (Thymus capitatus).

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Points of interest: The Avakas Gorge Trail is located in the homonymous gorge, within Pegeia state forest with the end of the trail located inside the gorge. It follows the course of the Avgas River, from where the gorge gets its name and resulted from constant erosive activity on the erodible, sloping limestone rocks composed of loams, chalks, reef and grain limestone and bentonitic clays. The gorge is also a Natura 2000 area. The trail firstly follows a dirt road (closed to private vehicles) through an open valley, then takes you into the gorge. In its last section, the trail is in the stream, in which water usually flows throughout the year. The route through the gorge is characterised by thick vegetation and a particularly attractive, shady and moist environment.

Flora: While hiking you can study the indigenous plants: lentisk (Pistacia lentiscus), Phoenician juniper (Juniperus phoenicea), terebinth (Pistacia terebinthus), thorny broom (Calycotome villosa), common smilax (Smilax aspera), oleander (Nerium oleander), storax (Styrax officinalis), and the endemic endangered Akamas centaury (Centaurea akamantis).

Fauna: The main species of fauna found in the area are:

Mammals: Fox, hare, hedgehog. Birds: Cyprus wheatear (endemic), Cyprus warbler (endemic), scops owl (endemic), partridge, little owl, kestrel, wild pigeon.

Reptiles: Stellion lizard. Amphibians: Marsh frog, iridescent frog, tree frog.

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Points of interest: The trail starts at the Kionia picnic site, where you can find a fountain with drinking water, and runs through a forest section where it affords great views of the Mesaoria plain, which belongs to the Machairas National Forest Park a Natura 2000 site. There is a perennial strawberry tree on the trail, whilst the picnic site boasts perennial pine and arar trees. The trail ends at the Profitis Ilias picnic site, approximately eight kilometres from Lythrodontas and six kilometres from Mandra tou Kambiou, via dirt roads.

Flora: While hiking you can study the endemic plants: Shrubby knapweed (Ptilostemon chamaepeuce var. cyprius), Golden oak (Quercus alnifolia), Purple Rock ­ Cress (Arabis purpurea), ‘Manouthkia’ (Pterocephalus multiflorus subsp. multiflorus – an evergreen small shrub with pale pink flowers).

Fauna: The main species of fauna found in the area are:

Mammals: Fox, hare, hedgehog.

Birds: Bonelli’s eagle, Eurasian jay, Wood pigeon, Partridge, Cyprus warbler  (endemic),

Cyprus wheatear (endemic).

Reptiles: Cyprus viper, Black whip Snake, Cyprus lizard.

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Points of interest: The trail begins at the overflow of the dam and runs alongside the highest water level point of the dam. It then crosses the artificial bridge over the dam. The uphill trail takes you to the Xyliatos – ­Lagoudera road, which leads you to the starting point if you follow through the dam’s embankment. The trail connects with another 200-metre trail, which starts from the picnic site ‘Fraktis tou Xyliatou’ (Xyliatos Dam) then follows a small section of the Xyliatos – ­Lagoudera road, joining with the circular path at the dam’s embankment. The dam itself is also of interest. A section of the path passes through a pine forest where you will encounter varieties of the golden oak tree, strawberry tree, myrtle, oriental alder and rockrose.

Flora: While hiking you can study the endemic plants: Shrubby knapweed (Ptilostemon chamaepeuce var. cyprius), Purple Rock ­ Cress (Arabis purpurea), ‘Manouthkia’ (Pterocephalus multiflorus subsp. multiflorus – an evergreen small shrub with pale pink flowers), Cyprus skullcap (Scutellaria cypria subsp. elatior), Thyme (Thymus integer), Wild garlic (Allium willeanum).

Fauna: The main species of fauna found in the area are:

Mammals: Fox, hare, hedgehog.

Birds: Bonelli’s eagle, Wood pigeon, partridge, Cyprus warbler (endemic), Cyprus wheatear (endemic).

Fish: Trout, carp, bass.

Amphibians: Frogs.

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Points of interest:  Of particular interest on this route are the churches of Panagia tou Araka (1192 AD) and Stavros tou Agiasmati (1494 AD) which boast outstanding frescoes and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The trail passes through a pine forest, vineyards, almond trees and old stone structures. To the east of the trail you will see Kionia peak. To the north you will see the Morfou plain and Pentadaktylos mountain range. To the west, you will see Troodos, and to the south you will see Madari. The trail connects with the Lagoudera or Agros – Madari trail. At the entrance of the Panagia tou Araka church you will find a 700 year ­old oak tree.

Flora: While hiking you can study the endemic plants: Thyme (Thymus integer), Shrubby knapweed (Ptilostemon chamaepeuce var. cyprius), ‘Manouthkia’ (Pterocephalus multiflorus subsp. multiflorus – an evergreen small shrub with pale pink flowers), Cyprus skullcap (Scutellaria cypria subsp. cypria).

Fauna: The main species of fauna found in the area are:

Mammals: Fox, hare, hedgehog.

Birds: Bonelli’s eagle, Wood pigeon, partridge, Cyprus warbler (endemic), Cyprus wheatear (endemic).

Reptiles: Cyprus viper, Cyprus lizard, Cyprus chameleon, Black whip snake

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