dossier

Secrets of Cyprus Cycling

Day 1: Arrive in Cyprus
We meet you at Paphos airport and and take you to Tassos' and Gregoria's coastal hotel near Polis (1 hour) in time for dinner on the panoramic terrace  – one of the most spectacular views on the whole island! You spend two nights here.

Day 2: North Coast Circular Cycling 30km/19mi
A lovely cycle today as you pedal along the coast to the fabled Baths of Aphrodite, your path lined with carob and eucalyptus groves.  This trickling waterfall is said to be where the Goddess of Love bathed with her lover, Adonis.  Nearby Lachi's colorful harbor is a scenic spot for a leisurely lunch - on a clear day you can see as far as the Taurus mountains in Turkey.  Perhaps continue along the easy coastal tracks to Polis, a lively resort with an interesting archaeological museum dating back to 7BC, or return along the gentle sea-breezed path for a dip in the sea by your hotel.

Day 3:  Polis to Kato Akourdaleia 31km/20mi
Leaving the sea at your heels, a panoramic track bright with orchids weaves you inland to the abandoned village of Androlikou.  Sweeping views, with Mt Olmpus crowning the horizon, continue as you climb towards Drouseia.  Time passes slowly here:  old ladies dressed in black sit by their doorsteps to watch the world go by.  Visit the lovely chuch with its shaded courtyard, a great spot for a lazy picnic lunch, before the downhill swoosh to sleepy Kato Akourdaleia.  The air's perfumed by the groves of orange and lemon trees which line your path as you approach our stunning farmhouse hotel.

Day 4:  Exploring Kato Akourdaleia
Today you might just like to relax in tiny Kato Akourdaleia, friendly locals gather at the hotel at lunchtime to put the world to rights, why not join in!  It's a perfect place to enjoy a panoramic stroll through the vines and citrus groves.  The more energetic can cycle to Ayia Ekaterini, a lovely Byzantine church with incredible views to the shimmering waters of the northern coast.

Day 5:   Kato Akourdaleia/Agios Georgiostis Peyias 34km/21mi
A gentle freewheel to the white washed villages of Miliou and Giolou, the tiny houses bedecked with bright cyclamen seem untouched by time.  Pedaling through quiet lanes flanked by vines to the abandoned village of Theletra, your only company will be the rock thrushes that chirrup overhead.  In contrast, the lively wine village of Kathikas is perfect for an al fresco lunch at one of the traditional tavernas.  The day ends with an exhilarating downhill thrill - spectacular balcony views over the coastline to Paphos - to our family run hotel in th charming fishing hamlet of Agios Georgios tis Peyias.  You spend three nights here.

Day 6:  Exploring Paphos
Perhaps explore the historical treasure trove of nearby Paphos today - it's jus 30 mins (pay locally) on the public bus.  Unmissable sights include the Hellenistic Tombs of the Kings and the exquisite Roman mosaics dating back to 2C.  After a fresh seafood lunch at the bustling harbour, explore the old town's market, ablaze with local color.  Otherwise, in fine weather, our hotel has a lovely pool and is just a stone's throw from the beach if you fancy a dip.

Day 7:  Coastal Cycling to Lara Bay 30km/19mi
Gentle pedalling today through lemon groves and banana plantations leads you to some of the most unspoiled coastline on Cyprus, along the Akamas peninsula's western flank.  A haven for wildlife, you'll wheel along with falcons circling overhead and shy goats hiding in the crevices of spectacular rock formations.  You reach Lara Bay, an idyllic marine reserve offering a tranquil picnic spot as gentle azure waters lap the golden shore.  time for a swim before heading back to the hotel for a final aperitif on the moonlit terrace.

Day 8:  Leave Cyprus
We take you to Paphos/Larnaca airport for your flight home.

Extra nights:

All extra night prices are per person, per night based on 2 people sharing a double room.

If a transfer from Larnaca airport is required there is a $115 per person supplement.