Visit Cyprus – Why Cyprus is famous for Natural Beauty?
With its sun-soaked beaches, dramatic mountain peaks, ancient forests, and breathtaking geological wonders, Cyprus packs a punch when it comes to natural splendours. Despite its compact size, this Mediterranean island nation overflows with stunning landscapes ripe for outdoor exploration. A visit Cyprus trip promises a feast for the senses unlike anywhere else!
Why Visit Cyprus for Natural Wonders?
From pristine beaches and sea caves eroded over millennia to soaring mountains and lush green valleys. Cyprus’ diverse terrain feels almost supernatural at times!
Diverse Natural Terrains to Explore on Visit Cyprus
The island’s unique location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa has also contributed to its spectacular biodiversity. These convergences have blessed Cyprus with a wealth of endemic flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth.
Quaint Places & Beautiful Hiking Trails
Undeveloped places remain largely untouched, sheltered within national parks and nature reserves. Scenic hiking trails traverse many of Cyprus’ showstoppers like the Troodos Mountains and Akamas Peninsula.
Explore Off the Beaten Path Attractions
Beautiful places like the Baths of Aphrodite and Lara Bay beaches draw big crowds. However, Cyprus also offers abundant opportunities to get off the grid. Many hidden coves, rarely visited trails and secret natural pools reward adventurous explorers seeking solitude and unspoiled landscapes.
Unique Geological Natural Wonders
But Cyprus’ geologic features may be its greatest natural asset. The island boasts rare phenomena like:
- Haunting petrified waterfalls
- Mineral-stained pillars and columns
- Eerie petrified trees seemingly frozen in time for millions of years
With jaw-dropping scenery around every bend, it’s no wonder Cyprus ranks high among the world’s most naturally stunning destinations.
15 Incredible Natural Wonders You Can’t Miss in Cyprus
Ready to feast your eyes on Cyprus’ amazing natural treasures? Here are 15 top sights that showcase the island’s dazzling great outdoors:
1. Cape Greco – Panoramic Views & Hiking Trails
Craggy sea cliffs and coves enfold the beautiful Blue Lagoon at the tip of Cyprus’ Karpas Peninsula. Wind-sculpted rock formations and sea caves like the famed Love Bridge add to Cape Greco’s intrigue. Marked trails provide excellent hiking opportunities with panoramic vantage points over the Mediterranean below.
Insider Tip: Time your hike to Cape Greco for sunrise or sunset. This is when the cliffs and sea caves take on magical warm tones and shadows that photographers dream about.
2. Adonis Nature Trail – Popular Place for Your Visit Cyprus Trip
Cyprus’ most famous hiking route takes you deep within the scenic Akamas wilderness past:
- Panoramic viewpoints
- Rushing waterfalls
- Byzantine bridges, and,
- Deep gorges lined with wild cyclamen flowers
The 7.5 km loop serves up postcard-worthy vistas of the island’s unearthly terrain. These locations epitomize the captivating natural beauty characterizes Cyprus!
Try making some time for the short detour to Baths of Aphrodite along the Adonis Trail. This legendary grotto and waterfall is said to be where the mythical goddess Aphrodite bathed. The idyllic pool and shaded setting look as if they are from a fairytale!
3. Baths of Aphrodite – A Scenic Bath in Cyprus
According to myth, the goddess of love and beauty bathed in a grotto spring pool replenished by a small waterfall near Polis. Today, the scenic Baths of Aphrodite continue drawing crowds. That’s because visitors get to marvel at its idyllic, shaded setting framed by gnarled trees and emerald waters!
Make it an Adventure: Hiking the entire 7.5 km Aphrodite Nature Trail loop offers added scenic wonders. The route winds through fragrant pine and juniper forests bursting with wildflowers like cyclamen. In addition to that, endemic butterflies and birds like the Cyprus warbler will keep you company. A fascinating way to spend your time in Nature!
4. Avakas Gorge – A Stunning Gorge to See When You Visit Cyprus
One of Cyprus’ many stunning gorges, the towering cliffs of narrow Avakas Gorge rise nearly 1,000 feet high. The jaw-dropping 3 km ravine makes for an easy, pleasant nature walk. You will also get to enjoy seeing flowing streams and unique flora like the wild Cyprus cyclamen!
Due to the gorge’s shaded location, easy trail and flowing waters, Avakas makes an ideal summer hike. This way, you can easily escape Cyprus’ intense midday heat. Carry proper shoes and swimming attire to cool off in the pools!
5. Petrified Forest of Lesvos – UNESCO World Heritage Site
The haunting petrified tree trunks and stumps at this UNESCO World Heritage site look like the aftermath of some ancient cataclysmic event. Yet these eerie fossilized specimens are the actual remains of a Tertiary Period forest. These specimens were petrified by the flow of heated moisture millions of years ago. This is why the forest has the name “Petrified” in it.
For an enhanced experience, take a guided tour to fully interpret and appreciate this rare phenomenon. Guides explain the petrification process while pointing out unique bark textures and growth rings frozen in time.
6. Mount Olympus – The Highest Peak of Cyprus
Known as Chionistra (Snow Mountain) by locals, Mt Olympus is Cyprus’ highest peak at over 6,000 feet. The entire jagged Troodos mountain range offers a playground for nature lovers seeking:
- Scenic hiking
- Mountain biking
- Year-round alpine adventures
Its cool pine forests provide a welcome respite from the summer heat. During winter, the upper reaches of Mt Olympus and the Troodos see heavy snowfall enough for downhill skiing and snowboarding. Cyprus’ only ski resort operates here with slopes, lifts and snow-making facilities for alpine enthusiasts. So, book your Cyprus visa appointment to experience these incredible attractions with your friends or family!
7. Caledonia Waterfalls – Gorgeous Cascading Waterfalls
Hidden within the sleepy village of Platres, these three-tiered waterfalls cascade down a rocky pine forest ravine for a magical effect. Footbridges crisscross the emerald pools and streams surrounded by verdant greenery and misty spray. Discovering the Natural Beauty of Northern Cyprus at these waterfalls is a must-try!
When to Visit: The spring snowmelt and rainy season bring peak water flow over the Caledonia Falls’ multi-tiered drops. For a quieter experience, come in late fall after summer’s dry season.
8. Millomeris Waterfalls – A Popular Waterfall to Visit
Another popular set of falls in Cyprus’ Troodos region is the Millomeris Waterfalls. These waterfalls tumble from a river’s source down a series of rocky cliffs near Kyperounta village. Its seven separate falls are especially impressive during the spring snowmelt!
Pro-Tip: Pack a picnic and spend a few hours relaxing alongside the refreshing pools and streams of Millomeris. The soothing sounds of the cascades lull you into tranquillity surrounded by lush greenery.
9. Sea Caves of Cape Greco – Mystical Sea Caves
Centuries of wind, waves and erosion have sculpted a network of haunting sea caves along Cape Greco’s rocky shoreline. Kayaking tours provide an up-close glimpse at unique cavern formations like the aptly named “Love Bridge.” You will also find some prime sea cave spots near Ayia Napa and Protaras Beach.
Exploring Cape Greco’s labyrinth of sea caves is best done on guided kayak or boat excursions. These usually help you explore hidden grottoes and under dramatic rock archways. The glittering turquoise waters and sea life only add to the magic.
10. Lara Bay – A Haven for Green Sea Turtles
Protected Lara Bay provides a critical nesting site for Green Sea turtles and Loggerhead turtles to lay their eggs each year. The secluded beach is surrounded by imposing white cliffs and sand dunes. These help shelter local flora and fauna found nowhere else on the island!
Go Turtle Watching: Take care visiting Lara Bay during turtle nesting season from May through August. Marine conservation volunteers monitor the beach to protect eggs and hatchlings. With luck, you may spot mama turtles laying eggs!
11. Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock)
This striking seaside rock marks one of Cyprus’ most legendary sites – the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite. It’s none other than the Greek goddess of love and beauty!
The beach of Petra tou Romiou with its dramatic sea-sculpted boulders and crystal clear waters offers a magnificent natural backdrop.
Romantic Spot: As the name suggests, Petra tou Romiou makes an ultra-romantic setting. This place gets romantic, especially during sunset when the skies glow pink and orange. It’s a coveted location for marriage proposals, destination weddings and dreamy couple’s photo shoots.
12. Tombs of the Kings – Remarkably Preserved Structures
Though they hold no actual kings, these remarkably preserved underground tombs date back to the 4th century BC Pafos. Carved directly into rocky outcrops, the cavernous tombs feature intricate details like:
- Doric columns, and,
- Frescoed ceilings within their gaping stone entrances
Want to check out such amazing places in Cyprus? Apply online Cyprus visa today!
13. Nissi Beach – A Great Beach with Fantastic Nature!
With its sparkling white powdery sands, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear teal waters, Nissi Beach encapsulates Cyprus’ quintessential beach dream. The constantly shifting barrier dunes and shallow sandbars make for a striking natural landscape. The best part – it’s set against the backdrop of ancient ruins!
14. Kamara tou Koraka – A Dramatic Nature Spot!
One of the most visually dramatic natural attractions in Cyprus’ Akamas Peninsula is Kamara tou Koraka or “Arch of the Greek”. The immense jagged limestone arch resembles a goliath stone serpent sea monster frozen in place along the coastline.
15. Baths of Aphrodite Nature Trail
In addition to its fabled mythological pool, the lush hiking paths throughout the Akamas Peninsula’s Baths of Aphrodite area make for a delightful nature walk. The 7.5 km trail meanders through fragrant pine and juniper forests teeming with local wildlife like Cyprus warblers and butterflies. Dozens of indigenous wildflowers bloom underfoot.
Conclusion
With so much diverse natural scenery from rugged coastlines, shimmering beaches, ancient forests and dramatic peaks, it’s easy to see why Cyprus is one of the Mediterranean’s most impressive destinations for nature lovers. So, apply for a Cyprus Visa UK and jet off to charming Cyprus for your holiday!
FAQs
Q1. What is the best time to visit Cyprus for outdoor adventures?
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer ideal conditions with warm, dry weather perfect for hiking, swimming and exploring Cyprus’ great outdoors. Summers can be very hot, while winters bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain showers.
Q2. How difficult is hiking in Cyprus?
Cyprus features hiking trails for all ability levels from easy, flat nature walks to strenuous treks over mountain terrain. Many routes are well-marked and maintained. Guided hiking tours provide a hassle-free option for visiting top sights and off-the-beaten-path gems.
Q3. Is it safe to swim at Cyprus beaches?
Cyprus has hundreds of beautiful beaches with clean, calm waters safe for swimming and watersports. Public beaches have lifeguards on duty during peak seasons. Just be cautious of rocky areas, sea currents, and exceedingly hot sand in the summer.
Q4. When is the turtle nesting season in Lara Bay, and what can visitors expect?
The turtle nesting season in Lara Bay is from May through August. Visitors can expect to see marine conservation volunteers monitoring the beach to protect eggs and hatchlings, and with luck, you might just spot mama turtles laying eggs.
Q5. Are tours needed to see Cyprus’ natural sights?
While many scenic spots and hiking trails are accessible independently with just a rental car, guided tours allow you to visit hard-to-reach locations and uncover little-known spots you’d likely miss otherwise. Tours led by naturalists also enhance appreciation of Cyprus’ unique ecosystems.
