Aphrodite Trail, Most Beautiful Walk in Cyprus
Classic Cyprus Walk on the Akamas Peninsula
Jul 5, 2008
The 79 sq km Akamas area is the last remaining unspoilt stretch of coastline in Southern Cyprus. Now protected as an area of outstanding natural beauty, it is the perfect location to enjoy outdoor activities like cycling and hiking.
At its best in spring, when the landscape is awash with greenery and wild flowers, the Aphrodite trail follows the mythical route used by the goddess and her lover Adonis.
Route and Terrain
The walk begins at the Baths of Aphrodite, a popular tourist spot on the island even though the "Baths" are somewhat disappointing due their size.
Ascending steeply through large boulders along the spine of the Akamas, the route first winds up towards the ancient oak tree, Aphrodite’s mythical lovers' nest. A rough gravel track continues the height gain onto herb scented macquis to the high point of 370m at the peak of Moutti tis Sotiras. Then follows a steep switchback descent on loose gravel demanding a good head for heights before the trail joins the rough, stony, vehicle-width coastal track below leading back to the Baths.
Highlights
- Breathtaking view to the end of the peninsula from the highpoint at Moutti tis Sotiras, which overlooks the famous blue lagoons
- Climbing the 860 year old ancient oak tree at Pyrgos tis Rigainas.
- Rocky boulder ascent overlooking Latchi harbour.
- Colourful displays of spring wild flowers and characteristic shrubs like olives, carob, mastic and strawberry trees.
- The myriad of aromas en route - a heady mix of wild thyme, rosemary, pine and fragrant juniper berries.
- True sense of wilderness hiking in an unspoilt outdoor paradise.
Tips
- Trail maps can be obtained from the local tourist information office in Polis.
- The trail can be tackled in reverse, which eliminates any fear of descending from the high point at Moutti.
- Hiking boots are required after heavy rain as parts of the trail can get extremely muddy.
- Take extra care on navigation at the start of the walk at waymark number 10 – bear sharply right uphill here and not straight on.
- Don’t forget the camera and a walking pole to help with the steep descents.
- Take a picnic to fully appreciate the views from the highpoint at Moutti.
- It is forbidden to pick wild flowers in the Akamas area – take pictures instead.
- On a hot day, take a detour after the switchback descent to one of the blue lagoons for a refreshing swim.
The Aphrodite Trail is rightly called a classic Cyprus walk due its unrivalled natural beauty. It should be on the "things to do" list of every hiker visiting the island.
Related Articles
Love walking? Try mountain biking on the Akamas peninsula.
Best Time for a Nature Walk in Cyprus
Discover Wild orchids in Cyprus
 |
 |
 |
