Cycling in Cyprus

Cyprus is well known for the wild party scene in and around Ayia Napa, but there is so much more to Cyprus, including vast natural spaces that are perfect for exploring on foot or, to cover more ground, by bike. So if you’re wondering where to go on your next cycling trip, why not consider heading to the sunny island of Cyprus?

While some areas of the Cyprus coastline are built up and blighted by overdevelopment and mass tourism, there are other stretches that are beautiful, relatively quiet and unspoilt. If you want to avoid traffic and crowds, steer clear of the more built-up south coast and head north. If you’re looking for some gentle road cycling, then the stretch between Polis and Pyrgos is a delight. Close to Polis, the Akamas peninsula also offers a nice relaxed bike ride.

But if you want to know why Cyprus is increasingly becoming a cycling mecca, you need to head inland. There are many mountain biking trails and forests crisscrossing the varied landscape of this compact island. There are challenging routes on rugged trails with steep inclines, rides on smooth roads that take you gliding through quiet forests teeming with wildlife, and a whole range of routes that fall, in difficulty, somewhere in between.

This may be a small island, but it is also very varied. There are a variety of landscapes to explore, from mountains to moorland, forest and scrub, deeply rolling geology and flatter coastal areas, and the good thing from a cyclist’s point of view is that you can travel quickly through this changing landscape in very Little time. perfect if you want to see and do as much as possible on your vacation periods because it is so compact.

The Paxos Forest, Troodos Massif and Machairas Mountains areas are littered with fantastic trails that meander through beautiful vistas and take you to idyllic little mountain villages, historic churches and other sites. Whether you are a serious cyclist or a family taking your time in some gentle ecological exploration, there is something in this beautiful country for everyone. There may be snow on the high peaks in winter, but there are bike trails that can be enjoyed year-round, and unlike most other European destinations, there will be little problem with a headwind.

The Troodos area has many lovely routes, but if you’re looking for a central base, Karvounas is a good choice. It is a link between the cycling routes in the area, giving access to trails that lead in all directions.

Ideal conditions and beautiful scenery mean that every cyclist should give Cyprus a try. Don’t write it off because you’ve heard of the drinking culture some people enjoy here. Cyprus can also be a perfect alternative destination for travel or adventure travel. So get on your bike and see what Cyprus really has to offer.