An Overview of Northern Cyprus's Gorgeous Cycling Routes
With a variety of stunning coastal roads, mountain trails, and rural routes, Northern Cyprus is an excellent destination for cyclists of all abilities. Because of its pleasant weather, lovely villages, and well-preserved natural environment, Northern Cyprus is a fantastic spot to ride bikes all year round. Some of Northern Cyprus's top bike-riding locations are highlighted in this guide. Both novice and expert bikers will enjoy its variety of terrain and obstacles.
1. From Bellapais to Kyrenia
About 10 km in one direction
Moderately challenging
Bellapais Abbey, Kyrenia Harbour, and the village vistas are a few of the top attractions.
From Kyrenia Harbour, bicycles can follow this route through the picturesque northern countryside to the village of Bellapais, home of the well-known Bellapais Abbey. The mild ascent offers stunning vistas of the mountains, and the roads are largely peaceful. Along the route, cyclists can explore classic Cypriot villages or pause at neighbourhood cafes. After the trip, you can unwind at Bellapais Abbey, the last destination, which offers breathtaking views of the Kyrenia shore.
2. Take a ride around Lapta's coastline.
About 15 kilometres, both there and back.
The degree of difficulty is easy.
The sandy beaches, restaurants by the water, and coastline vistas are among this location's greatest features.
A popular spot for cyclists to go for a leisurely ride is Lapta's beach route. You can enjoy unobstructed views of the water as you travel along the Mediterranean coast on this largely level path that begins in Lapta. Families and novice riders will benefit from the well-maintained path. Along the route are beaches where cyclists can swim or have a picnic by the sea, and there are numerous locations to pause for food and drink.
3. The path to St Hilarion Castle from the Kyrenia Mountain Range
About 20 km in one direction
The degree of difficulty is challenging.
Highlights include the surrounding environment, St Hilarion Castle, and mountain views.
For seasoned cyclists seeking a challenge, this route is excellent. It begins at Kyrenia and ascends into the Kyrenia Mountain Range in the direction of St Hilarion Castle. The vistas of Kyrenia and the Mediterranean make the difficult, steep climb worthwhile despite its hairpin curves and grade changes. Cyclists can visit the old St Hilarion Castle at the summit, which is renowned for its intriguing mediaeval architecture and stunning vistas. Smooth downhill portions make the journey's conclusion even more thrilling, and the trip back down is exhilarating.
4. Travel by car to the Peninsula of Karpas.
Depending on where you start, the distance can range from 50 to 70 km round trip.
Difficulty level: moderate to hard
Key points: untouched landscape, wild donkeys, and Golden Beach
For cyclists who enjoy travelling long distances through stunning, pristine regions, the Karpas Peninsula is a fantastic destination. With trails that wind through open fields, pine forests, and tiny settlements, this journey offers you a true experience of Northern Cyprus. The destination, Golden Beach, is a treat with its sandy shoreline and crystal-clear seas, making it the ideal place for a cool swim. On their way, cyclists may also spot the well-known wild donkeys of the Karpas Peninsula. This path is excellent for those who wish to avoid the crowds because it is so far away.
5. From Famagusta to Salamis, the Ancient City
Approximately 8 kilometres in one direction
The degree of difficulty is easy.
Important points to remember: Roman architecture, Salamis ruins, and Old Town Famagusta
From the historic town of Famagusta, cyclists can follow this level, simple trail to the ancient city of Salamis. Famagusta, with its well-preserved Venetian fortifications and Gothic architecture, is an intriguing location to start. For cyclists of all abilities, the route to Salamis is lovely. The ruins of the ancient Roman city of Salamis, which features Roman baths, a gym, and an amphitheatre, are open for cyclists to explore. This quick route is ideal for combining historical site visits with biking.
6. The Kyrenia to Esentepe Coastal Route
About 25 km in one direction
Moderate hardness
Highlights include the peaceful roads, the settlement of Esentepe, and the coastal views.
This route travels along the northern shore from Kyrenia to the settlement of Esentepe. The views of the shore make the moderately difficult path—which includes some hills—well worth it. Esentepe is a quaint village with a tranquil ambiance and a classic Cypriot flavour. Cyclists can pause at a few tiny cafes to eat regional cuisine. Due to the lack of traffic, cyclists who enjoy beautiful, less-travelled roads adore this route.
7. About 20 kilometres (one way) separate Kyrenia and Buffavento Castle.
Difficulty level: Hard. The best sights to visit include the Kyrenia Mountains, Buffavento Castle, and breathtaking vistas.
For a challenging and stunning ride, the Kyrenia to Buffavento Castle route is a fantastic option. Only experienced bikers should attempt the steep, winding, and narrow road leading to Buffavento Castle. The Kyrenia Mountains' highest point is where Buffavento Castle is located. From there, you have a great view of the surrounding mountains and the coast. It's a great place to stop before returning to Kyrenia, and the castle itself has a lot of history.
8. From Kyrenia to Nicosia Ride
About 25 km in one direction
Moderate level of difficulty
The city of Kyrenia, historical landmarks, and urban and rural landscapes are some of the top attractions.
This route takes cyclists from Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus that is split in two, via the countryside to Kyrenia. Along the route, you will see both urban and rural landscapes, including broad fields and undulating hills. Cyclists can start in Nicosia and cycle north to Kyrenia. Along the route, guests may see how Turkish and Greek cultures have blended in the city. Most of this route is on well-paved roads, and both local and visiting cyclists prefer it.
9. Take a ride around Özelyurt's countryside.
The distance (there and back) is roughly 30 km.
Level of difficulty: easy to moderate
Citrus plantations, the Güzelyurt Market, and the countryside are some of the top attractions.
Fertile fields and citrus orchards encircle Güzelyurt, which translates to "fruit basket" in Turkish. This makes it an excellent area to go for a quiet ride in the countryside. Cyclists get a genuine glimpse of rural Cyprus life as the route winds through verdant fields and tiny communities. People like to stop by the Güzelyurt Market to enjoy fresh fruits, especially lemons and oranges, which the area is known for. This trail is suitable for cyclists of all ability levels and is largely level.
10. The Green Line in Nicosia Loop
About 15 kilometres is the distance (loop).
The degree of difficulty is easy.
Top things to see in Nicosia: its historical sites, the Green Line, and its one-of-a-kind cityscape.
The Green Line in Nicosia, which divides Northern and Southern Cyprus, is circumvented via this city cycling route. Because the route passes historical places and areas impacted by the political division, as well as the only divided capital in the world, history fans will appreciate it. The trip offers views of both the Greek and Turkish Cypriot sides, and there are opportunities to pause at cafes, art galleries, and museums along the way.
The finest seasons to ride a bicycle in Northern Cyprus are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and sunny. In order to stay cool throughout the summer, it's better to ride early in the morning.
Road Safety: Cyclists should exercise caution when riding in Northern Cyprus, particularly on highways and mountain roads, as there aren't many places for them to do so. Wearing visible clothing and a helmet is a smart idea.
Water and materials: Always keep an adequate supply of water on hand, particularly in isolated areas like the Karpas Peninsula where access to it is limited. Bring snacks and supplies because some routes don't have shops or cafes.
Bike Rentals: There are bike rental shops in Kyrenia and Nicosia that have a variety of bikes, such as mountain bikes and road bikes. Many hotels also let guests rent things.
Whether you choose to ride through the mountains, along the shore, or past historical monuments, Northern Cyprus offers a wide variety of bike routes. Because of its stunning landscapes, pleasant climate, and welcoming locals, a cycling vacation in Northern Cyprus is a singular and fulfilling way to experience the island.
