Cycling Tours in North Cyprus: Unique Routes to Discover with Pedals
North Cyprus offers a perfect destination for cycling tours with its natural beauty, historical richness and favourable climate. The island offers a variety for cycling lovers, with both challenging mountain roads and more relaxed trails along the coast. Whether you are an amateur cyclist or a professional, you can find a suitable route in different parts of Northern Cyprus. In this article, we will explore the most beautiful routes for cycling tours in Northern Cyprus and the opportunities it offers to cycling lovers.
1. Kyrenia and Coastal Roads
Kyrenia is one of the most popular tourist centres on the north coast of North Cyprus and a great starting point for cycling tours. In and around Kyrenia, you can have a pleasant cycling tour along the roads with sea views.
Kyrenia-Lapta Route: Starting from Kyrenia and travelling westwards to Lapta, this route runs along the coast. Passing through sea views, small villages and olive groves, this route to Lapta is ideal for intermediate cyclists. You can take a break in Lapta and relax in the local cafes, then cycle back to Kyrenia.
Kyrenia-Bellapais Monastery: This route climbs inland from Kyrenia to reach Bellapais Monastery. This route, which requires a slight climb, offers both the historical atmosphere of the monastery and the magnificent views of Kyrenia. On the way, you can explore the historical houses and natural beauties of Kyrenia.
2. Nicosia and Surroundings
Nicosia, the capital of Northern Cyprus, is full of historical and cultural riches. The cycling routes in and around the city allow you to have a pleasant tour between historical places.
Nicosia Walls Tour: Cycling along the historic walls of Nicosia is a great way to experience the historical atmosphere of the city. You can choose this route to see historical buildings and walls from the Ottoman, Venetian and Lusignan periods. After visiting the city walls, you can observe the local life of Nicosia by pedalling through the old city streets.
Nicosia-Morphou Route: This route extends from Nicosia to the west and continues until Morfou (Güzelyurt) region. This route offers a natural discovery for cycling lovers, passing through rural areas and citrus groves. When you reach Güzelyurt, you can take a break to explore the historical and natural beauties of the region.
3. Karpaz Peninsula Cycling Tours
The Karpaz Peninsula is known as one of the most pristine and natural regions of Northern Cyprus. It is a perfect place for long-distance cycling tours intertwined with nature.
Karpaz Altinkum Beach Route: The cycling tour to Altınkum Beach (Golden Beach) on the Karpaz Peninsula offers the most beautiful natural views of the island. The route is suitable for experienced cyclists with its long distance and challenging tracks. When you reach the beach, you can cool off in the sea and relax on the sandy beach.
Dipkarpaz-Apostolos Andreas Monastery Route: This route to Apostolos Andreas Monastery, located at the extreme point of Karpaz, is known for its historical and religious importance. Starting from Dipkarpaz village, you can pedal to this sacred place accompanied by the nature of the peninsula. Along the way, you may encounter wild donkeys and untouched nature.
4. Famagusta and Ancient City of Salamis
Famagusta is a historical and touristic city located in the east of Northern Cyprus. Cycling routes in and around the city offer many options for both history and nature lovers.
Famagusta-Salamis Ancient City Route: Starting from Famagusta and heading north, this route reaches the ancient city of Salamis. This ancient city is full of Roman ruins and mosaics. After exploring the ancient city, you can follow the same route back to Famagusta.
Famagusta-Kantara Castle Route: Stretching from Famagusta towards the Besparmak Mountains, this route continues until Kantara Castle. This route, which requires challenging climbs, is suitable for experienced cyclists. When you reach the castle, you can enjoy the magnificent views from the top of the mountains.
5. Mountain Bike Routes
Northern Cyprus also offers great trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. The Beşparmak Mountains offer challenging climbs and natural beauty, making it an ideal area for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Besparmak Mountains Tour: This route runs along the Besparmak Mountains and offers mountain biking trails of varying difficulty levels. Rocky roads, steep slopes and spectacular mountain views make this route perfect for cyclists looking for an adrenaline-fuelled adventure.
Kantara-Kyrenia Mountain Route: Starting from Kantara Castle and continuing along the Kyrenia Mountains, this route is ideal for mountain biking. Along the way, you can enjoy both sea and mountain views, passing through historic villages and ancient ruins.
Tips for Cycling Tours
Preparation Before going on a cycling tour in North Cyprus, pack essentials such as water, food, sunscreen and spare tyres. Temperatures can be quite high during the summer months, so opt for early or late afternoon tours.
Bike Hire: Many hotels and bike rental centres in North Cyprus offer bike rental services. You can find a wide range of options from road bikes to mountain bikes.
Local Guides: Especially for challenging and long routes, touring with local guides ensures your safety and helps you learn more about the region.
North Cyprus is a perfect destination for cycling lovers, with routes full of diversity and natural beauty. Whether you are looking for a peaceful tour along the coast or an adrenaline-fuelled adventure on the challenging trails of the mountains, there is a cycling tour for everyone in Northern Cyprus. As you pedal across the island, you will enjoy the historical and cultural richness as well as the mesmerising views of the Mediterranean Sea. Every road you will explore by bicycle in Northern Cyprus will offer you an unforgettable experience.
