Walking In North Cyprus

The adventure begins in Kyrenia, a pretty harbour town and a great base from which to explore North Cyprus. Archaeological excavations show the area was first settled as far back as the 10th century BCE, and today historic buildings and winding lanes offer a glimpse into the past, sitting alongside more modern additions. If there’s time, make use of the hotel facilities – perhaps toasting the adventures to come with a cocktail in the garden bar. Accommodation: Hotel Pia Bella (or similar)

This morning, we have a welcome briefing before a 20-minute transfer to Bellapais, a mountain village home to the ruins of Bellapais Abbey, a medieval gothic monastery. There’s free time to explore, before a short walk to Cattalkoy village, where we catch the transfer back to Kyrenia. The walk today is mainly along an old dirt track; it is fairly undulating, with views towards the coast along the way. Upon our return, we embark on a tour of Kyrenia. It includes a visit to the harbour-front castle, a city landmark and important fort for civilisations as diverse as the Ottomans, Venetians and British. Alongside glorious sea views and fascinating architecture, the castle houses the Shipwreck Museum, home to a fourth-century Greek merchant vessel and its cargo. Walk: Ascent: 502ft (153m); descent: 476ft (145m); max altitude: (350m); duration: two hours Accommodation: Hotel Pia Bella (or similar)

We transfer approximately 25 minutes to Saint Hilarion Castle, a former stronghold within the Kyrenia mountains. Originally a hermitage, the monastery and church were built in the 10th century and later fortified. The site consists of three main parts, linked by steep staircases: the lower section was for the stables and men of arms; the middle was home to the church; and the upper was for reserved for royalty. We spend time exploring the castle and enjoying the magnificent views of Kyrenia, before a walk through the hills to Malatya village. The first section cuts through forest, following an old riverbed with some loose rocks underfoot. We then reach an old dirt track, which we follow into the village, with coastal views ahead and Saint Hilarion Castle behind. We walk through several small villages today, getting a good sense of local life along the way, and pausing for lunch in one of the village squares. We transfer back to the hotel this afternoon, stopping to enjoy a drink on the seafront if time allows. Walk: Ascent: 673ft (205m); descent: 1,312ft (400m); max altitude: 2,950ft (900m); duration: four hours Accommodation: Hotel Pia Bella (or similar)