Cyprus, the Mediterranean’s third largest Island, is divided between the Turkish controlled north and the Greek south. This division has resulted in a unique situation, which has so far seen the North under-developed and less commercial than can be found across the rest of the Mediterranean region. North Cyprus is therefore loved for its slow pace of life, value for money and delightful old-world/village-feel; it combines beautiful scenery, enchanting historical attractions and a sunny climate all year round, making it an ideal get-away.
The Turkish Cypriot helpfulness is reminiscent of the Mediterranean of the 1960’s and 1970’s with many family-owned restaurants and bars providing unrivalled hospitality. Idyllic scenery and ancient rustic villages gently dot the countryside, along with miles of natural coastline against the back drop of a stunning mountain range. For the more adventurous there are boat trips, diving in crystal clear water and water sports aplenty. For evening entertainment, alfresco dining by the Mediterranean shores and a relaxed nightlife centred around the beautiful Kyrenia Harbour cannot be missed.
Kyrenia
Kyrenia (or Girne) as known by the locals has long been considered the most beautiful landscape in Cyprus, thanks to the imposing line of high hills to the south which temper the climate and separate the area from the rest of the Island. The Kyrenia mountain range has been characterized as the quintessential Gothic range; the limestone crags not only mimic the handful of castles that stud them but also suggest the delicate tracery of the cathedrals in Nicosia and Famagusta – towns clearly visible from the heights. The hills rise to over 1000 metres from a very narrow coastal plan and run for some 70km roughly east to west.
Kyrenia – with its compact old quarter arrayed around a central harbour. Nearby, Karaman, Alsancak, Lapta, Bellapais, Ozankoy and Catalkoy offer sought-after dormitory annexes. Kyrenia, can be explored in a day – visit Kyrenia Castle and the Shipwreck Museum, the Tombs-Find Gallery, The Icon Museum and Folk Art Museum but, it’s more likely you will spend your day watching the world go by from the picturesque setting of one of the many harbour restaurant’s or café’s. Nightlife is centred very much around the harbour – restaurants, bars, café’s and hotels offering casino and musical entertainment. A few discos can be found, but the entertainment is very much geared to relaxed, family entertainment.
Take time to hire a car, or be brave and ride a Dolmus (local bus) and visit The Abbey at Bellapais, St Hilarion Castle, the old traditional hill village of Karaman, Lambousa Monastry – which offers an arts & craft marketplace on Saturday mornings and Buffavento Castle. There is so much to see and do around the local villages, don’t be afraid to explore.
Beaches