Akamas Peninsula

The Akamas Peninsula at the northwestern tip of Cyprus is the island's most important wildlife refuge — an area of exceptional natural beauty that has somehow escaped the development that transformed much of the Cyprus coast in the late 20th century. The rugged limestone headland drops into the crystal-clear Mediterranean in a series of coves, sea caves, and dramatic cliffs that shelter nesting loggerhead turtles and monk seals.

The Aphrodite Trail (7.5 km) and the Adonis Trail (7.5 km) are the two main walking routes through the peninsula, passing through phrygana scrubland, ancient juniper trees, and the lush gorge of Avakas. The Baths of Aphrodite — a natural grotto pool where the goddess of love is said to have bathed — marks the start of both trails.

We explore the peninsula by foot, accessing areas closed to vehicles, and combine the coastal walking with snorkelling in the extraordinary underwater caves of the Blue Lagoon at Akamas Bay. Early spring is the best time, when the hillsides are carpeted with wild orchids, anemones, and poppies.