by Manos Gazon
Cyprus is a mystical island which holds many secrets, more so on its northern part, where the island’s division seems to deter travelers from uncovering its potential.
In this article, I am going to propose to you a weekend trip to the tip of the island, the Karpas peninsula.
If you look at a map of Cyprus, the Karpas is the long, finger-like peninsula that is one of the most prominent geographical features of the island.
Due to its geography and the Cyprus issue, Karpas has kept its pristine natural environment.
To go to Karpas from Nicosia, you’ll definitely need a car.
With the car you’ll need to go by Kyrenia and then follow the coastal road to the peninsula.
However, before Kyrenia you are obligated to stop at the castle of Saint Hilarion.
This castle is considered the best preserved ruin of medieval Byzantine architecture. It has been used to defend the island against the Arabs and the Ottomans.
After Kyrenia, the drive to Rizokarpaso (Greek) or Dipkarpaz (Turkish), the main town of the peninsula, is approximately two hours. I suggest you stop for a swim to one of the many beaches along the way.
Food in general, but specifically in Cyprus, is a very important issue. It is understandable that after this journey everyone must be extremely hungry. I suggest you pay a visit to Manolyam Restoran, a prime example of Greek-Turkish Cypriot friendship. Indeed, the owners are part of the Greek-Cypriot minority that managed to remain in the north part of the island. If you’re lucky, you might also witness traditional music from this area.
For accommodation, there are two options. You either book a hotel in the city, or if you feel adventurous, you drive a half hour more and camp on the golden beach. This last option is the one I would suggest, even though technically it is not allowed to do so.
Drone view of the Golden BeachStaying at Golden Beach at night offers many benefits. You can camp in the dunes, have a nice meal and open up some beers with your friends. It also allows you to be part of a secret few people know.
But what is this secret?
Have you heard about the natural ocean wonder of bioluminescence?
Golden Beach has large amounts of neon blue plankton, which glows in the dark.
That means that if you go for a dip post sundown, you are very likely to witness this.
Another important part of your journey in Karpas is to observe the sunrise and/or sunset at Cape Saint Andrew, the north-easternmost point of the peninsula.
In addition to this magnificent spot, you can also visit the Apostolos Andreas Monastery. The monastery is situated just south of Cape Apostolos Andreas and is culturally important to both the Greek-Cypriot and the Turkish-Cypriot community.
Finally, just before heading to Nicosia, one final stop is needed.
You have to visit Bellapais Abbey, a monastery of the 13th century. The ruin is situated high in the Kyrenia mountains, and allows you to have a view down to Kyrenia and the Mediterranean sea.
It also has nice restaurants and coffee shops around where you can recharge before heading to Nicosia.
I hope you enjoyed this weekend trip to one of the most magical places of Cyprus.
More trips such as this one will be shared soon!
by Manos Gazon
Disclaimer: The information contained in the article represents the views and opinions of the writer and does not necessarily represent the views or opinions of An Island East.
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