Cyprus Winter Walking
Cyprus Winter Walking
$1160
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Cyprus Winter Walking tour, where you can bask in the winter sunshine while exploring the stunning landscapes of Cyprus. This self-guided holiday takes you through wildflower-strewn vineyards, serene woodlands, and offers breathtaking views of terraced hillsides and the coast. Discover hidden beaches, deserted villages, and the enchanting Akamas Peninsula, including the famous Baths of Aphrodite. With a chance to encounter the beautiful mouflon, this tour promises a unique blend of nature and culture. Enjoy comfortable accommodations with ensuite facilities, and benefit from convenient transfers and a digital navigation app. Whether you're traversing the Laona plateau or exploring the coastal cliffs, each day offers a new adventure in this Mediterranean paradise. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Cyprus
Location: Drouseia
Accommodation Name: Droushia Heights Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Arrive at Phaphos airport and meet our driver for a transfer to Drouseia (incl.). This is a small typically Cypriot village on the edge of the Akamas Peninsula, on the Laona plateau. It has many old stone houses bearing traditional architecture such as carved doors and wooden windows and narrow winding streets. There are two coffee shops, as well as two small supermarkets/kiosks and some good tavernas, normally open on weekends in winter. The church of Agios Epifanios is in the centre, where you can also explore the ancient monastery of Agios Georgios Nikoxilitis on the eastern side. In the nearby village of Ineia, only a mile away, there is a Sea Turtle museum, that opened in 2023, well worth a visit. From Drouseia you can see all the way across to the Troodos Mountains and, looking north you can see Chrysochou Bay, the town of Polis and Latchi harbour. Looking west, there are stunning views of the Akamas Peninsula.
Accommodation: The Droushia Heights Hotel offers accommodation for 4 nights. It is found on the north edge of the village, offering excellent views towards Chrysochou Bay from its infinity pool and terrace. All rooms are ensuite. ...more ...less
Day 2 : Circular Walk Around Drouseia - 13.4 Km / 8.3 Miles, 4.5 Hours
Location: Drouseia
Accommodation Name: Droushia Heights Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
A gentle introduction to the Laona landscape and tracks which criss-cross the area. After passing through Drouseia village, the path passes a wayside chapel before dropping down to the village of Kritou Terra, known for its springs and catacombs. Then follows a steep climb back up to Drouseia. There is a longer option to reach the tiny medieval Agia Paraskevi chapel deeper in the valley and a partly restored watermill. The views compensate hikers for the effort of the extra kilometre and 150m elevation gain.
Day 3 : Bus To Khatakis Village, Walk To Agios Georgios Tis Pegeias, Transfer Back - 15 Km / 9.3 Miles, 5-6 Hrs
Location: Kathikas
Accommodation Name: Droushia Heights Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
A public bus from Drouseia takes you to Kathikas village, another one of the many well-preserved stone-built villages of the area. It hosts a good number of restaurants, a couple of wineries and an Information Centre mainly on the flora and fauna of the Akamas Peninsula. The mostly downhill walk threads its way down to the coast, through the vineyards of a winery where you can normally do a tasting before continuing downhill through a mixture of gorge and woods. An optional visit may be made to the spectacular Avakas Gorge. Note that this is normally closed in winter and entering the gorge requires care due to slippery conditions. Whichever way you go, at the end of the walk you arrive at Agios Georgios tis Pegeias, a collection of buildings and ruins next to a coastal cliff, and with a small fishing harbour and beach area. The sunsets from here are said to be the best in Cyprus.
Afternoon transfer back to Drouseia.
Day 4 : A Circular Walk Through Boulders Towards Androlykou Village - Max. 14Km / 8.7 Miles 4.5 Hours
Location: Akamas Peninsula
Accommodation Name: Droushia Heights Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk in the area to the north of Drouseia village, in the direction of the abandoned Turkish Cypriot village of Androlykou. The route is characterised by big boulders and rock formations scattered all around and by beautiful vistas of Chrysochous Bay. Then there are the ridge and eastern slope of the Akamas Peninsula. Today's walking is mostly on cement rural roads, instead of more natural, considerably muddier after rains, dirt roads.
Day 5 : Drouseia To The Baths Of Aphrodite - 21 Km / 13 Miles, 5 Hours
Location: Akamas Peninsula
Accommodation Name: Chrysochou Bay, Akamas Peninsula
Meals Included: Breakfast
Traverse the pristine Akamas Peninsula enjoying glorious views along the ridge, from the west coast, all the way to Pomos village in the northeast. The last stretch of the walk is along the undulating coastal dirt road next to the cliffs of Akamas providing yet more stunning views of the coast and sea. You eventually finish the route near the tiny Baths of Aphrodite cave. Here, according to mythology, the Goddess of Love & Beauty used to take her dip! Today's walk includes stretches of three nature trails (Smiyies, Adonis and Aphrodite). Another sight are the ruins of a medieval monastery known as ‘Pirgos tis Rigenas’ (the Queen's castle) and a nearby ancient oak tree.
Accommodation: 3 nights at Chrysochou Bay, Akamas Peninsula. The modern-looking hotel is set in a fine position, just above a pebble beach. All rooms are ensuite.
Day 6 : Transfer To Lysos, Walk To Polis, Bus Back To Aphrodite - 20Km / 12.4 Miles, 6Hrs
Location: Polis
Accommodation Name: Chrysochou Bay, Akamas Peninsula
Meals Included: Breakfast
Morning transfer to the pretty stone village of Lysos, on the edge of the expansive Paphos Forest (550m). The hike then heads out mainly on dirt roads, taking you up the north coast near Argaka village. In the forest you may meet the endemic Cypriot Mouflon mountain sheep, as well as an ancient chapel and deserted village. Once at the coastal picnic site of Mavralis you will head to the town of Polis, either via the beach or, if it is rough and windy, via the coastal road passing through a Eucalyptus forest. The town of Polis has an old centre with cafes, restaurants and shops and a number of attractions – including medieval churches, very old trees and a small archaeological museum.
In the afternoon take a public bus back to Aphrodite Beach Hotel.
Day 7 : Baths Of Aphrodite Circular Walks - Min. 12.4 Km / 8 Miles, 4-5 Hours
Location: Akamas Peninsula
Accommodation Name: Chrysochou Bay, Akamas Peninsula
Meals Included: Breakfast
There are a couple of circular walking options emanating from the Baths of Aphrodite and onto the the Akamas Peninsula. The varied scenery includes spectacular views from Mouti tis Sotiras looking down towards the western tip of Cyprus. The hike today involves tranquil views of the sea and walking on nature trails.
Day 8 : Arrangements End After Breakfast
Location: Paphos
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer from Baths of Aphrodite to Paphos airport (incl.) to catch your outbound flight. If you are flying from Larnaka, a supplement applies for the transfer. Please contact the office for details.
What's Included
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Accommodation
7 nights in hotels -
7 breakfasts
Enjoy 7 breakfasts during your stay.
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7 nights accommodation in hotels - twin share basis with ensuite facilities
Stay for 7 nights in hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities.
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Digital information pack including navigational travel app
Receive a digital information pack that includes a navigational travel app.
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Arrival and departure transfers to Paphos airport
Transfers to and from Paphos airport are included.
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Private transfer on day 3 & 6
Private transfers are provided on day 3 and day 6.
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Luggage transfers, 1 bag per person up to 20kg
Luggage transfers are included, with a limit of 1 bag per person up to 20kg.
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Emergency hotline
Access to an emergency hotline is provided.
What's Not Included
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Lunches, Dinners & Beverages
Lunches, dinners, and beverages are not included.
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Entrance fees
Entrance fees are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Arrival and departure transfers to Larnaka airport
Transfers to and from Larnaka airport are not included but can be arranged.
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Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls
Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls are not included.
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Unscheduled transfers required during the trip & all public transport
Unscheduled transfers and all public transport during the trip are not included.
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Guide - this is a self guided holiday
A guide is not included as this is a self-guided holiday.
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A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
A supplement applies if you are travelling solo or book a single room.
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Excess luggage
Excess luggage is not included.
Accommodation
The tour offers accommodation in hotels with en-suite or private facilities, including a swimming pool. The choice of accommodation is limited in small villages, but each hotel provides comfortable rooms. If the usual hotels are unavailable, alternatives will be provided, and guests will be informed of any changes. ...more ...less
Grading
This is a moderate hike as the daily walking distances are average, but it includes some steep climbs and descents, possibly on dirt roads. There may be points where fallen trees are blocking the way, you may have to climb around these and this is not very difficult. It should therefore present no difficulties to someone accustomed to day long walking. Day stages: Distances walked vary from 11 to 21 km or 3.5 – 6 hours and there are six hiking days. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes arrival and departure transfers to Paphos airport, private transfers on specific days, and luggage transfers. Public buses are used for some routes, and there is an option for transfers to Larnaka airport. Unscheduled transfers and public transport are not included.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the Cyprus Winter Walking tour?
The tour provides accommodation in hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities. The hotels described are the usual choice, but alternatives may be used if these are not available. Each accommodation has rooms with en-suite or private facilities and a swimming pool.
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Is the Cyprus Winter Walking tour guided?
No, this is a self-guided holiday. A digital information pack including a navigational travel app is provided to assist you during the tour.
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Are airport transfers included in the Cyprus Winter Walking tour?
Yes, arrival and departure transfers to Paphos airport are included. Transfers to Larnaka airport can also be arranged, but details need to be discussed with the tour provider.
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What is the difficulty level of the hikes on the Cyprus Winter Walking tour?
The hikes are graded as moderate. The daily walking distances are average, but include some steep climbs and descents, possibly on dirt roads. It should present no difficulties to someone accustomed to day-long walking.
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What are some of the highlights of the Cyprus Winter Walking tour?
Highlights include catching winter sunshine in Cyprus, exploring wildflowers, vineyards, and woodlands, enjoying views of terraced hillsides and the coast, visiting fishing harbours, hidden beaches, and deserted villages, exploring the Akamas Peninsula and Laona plateau area, visiting the famous Baths of Aphrodite, and having the chance to encounter the gorgeous mouflon. ...more ...less
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What meals are included in the Cyprus Winter Walking tour?
The tour includes 7 breakfasts. Lunches, dinners, and beverages are not included.
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What should I expect on the first day of the Cyprus Winter Walking tour?
On the first day, you will arrive at Paphos airport and meet the driver for a transfer to Drouseia, a small typically Cypriot village. You can explore the village's traditional architecture, coffee shops, supermarkets, tavernas, and the church of Agios Epifanios. There is also a Sea Turtle museum in the nearby village of Ineia.
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Self-guided holidays - inclusions
We have designed our self guided walking and cycling tours to include a number of elements to help you enjoy your holiday more, while leaving out some things to give you more freedom to tailor the trip to your needs and interests. Refer to the Trip Notes for more information on the specific inclusions for each trip. What’s included: - Detailed Route Notes - Accommodation - Luggage transfers - Any scheduled transfers as per Trip Notes - Emergency support - Some meals (mostly breakfasts) What’s NOT included: - Transport to/from start/finish points - Most meals - Any entrance/park fees - Travel insurance - Personal expenses along the way - Unscheduled transfers required during the trip
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Trip Grading & Preparation
Match your level of fitness & requirements Please read this information carefully to find out which grade is most suited to your level of fitness and requirements. To make the most of your Walkers' Britain holiday it is essential and your responsibility to choose a trip that is well within your capabilities. All our active holidays are graded and clearly marked in each trip description. All mountains have uphill and downhill sections and by definition walking and cycling demand some effort. However all things are relative, and these grades assume that you are a reasonably active person who enjoys walking or cycling. Few trips are extreme and most allow ample time for sightseeing and enjoying the scenery. If in doubt about the grade of any holiday, please contact us for advice or request the tour dossiers, you can also chat with our team about the right travel insurance for you. Grade 1 – Introductory These trips involve walking for four to five hours per day or cycling for 15-50 km per day at a slow but steady pace. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and good health. Suggested Preparation 30 minutes of aerobic-type exercise (either road cycling or jogging), three times a week for three months leading up to your trip. Grade 2 – Introductory to Moderate These trips involve a combination of what is described in our Introductory and Moderate levels. The emphasis is on introductory activity but including several moderate stages. Grade 3 – Moderate These adventures involve walking for up to six hours per day or cycling for up to 65 km per day, at a steady pace. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health. Suggested Preparation 45 minutes of aerobic-type exercise (road cycling or jogging) three times a week for three months leading up to your trip. Grade 4 – Moderate to Challenging This trip grading involves a combination of what is described in our Moderate and Challenging levels. The emphasis is on moderate activity but including several challenging stages. Grade 5 – Challenging These active holidays involve walking up to nine hours per day in mountainous terrain with steep ascents and descents, pass crossing & alpine weather conditions, or cycling for up to 80 km per day over undulating terrain, with some steep and sustained hills. You will need an excellent level of fitness, be prepared to carry a daypack weighing up to 8 kg and be completely comfortable in adverse weather conditions. Suggested Preparation 1 hour of aerobic-type exercise five times a week for three to six months leading up to your trip. We also recommend regular hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions or road cycling.
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Route notes
While our tours vary in terms of difficulty, route finding is made simple and convenient with our specially prepared package of maps and route notes. On many of the walks it is easy enough to navigate carefully using the route notes provided with a cursory glance at the map. As holidays reach the higher grades, you will need to take more care and we would expect you to have at least some knowledge of using a compass. Maps for our tours also vary considerably, from up-to-date GPS referenced additions, to old map copies which may still be the only ones obtainable for a particular area. The differences in style, grade and destinations of our tours are features that make them of continual interest and delight to our walkers & cyclists. Each set of route notes can contain the following elements relevant to the route: History and information on the region and the route you are walking. Detailed maps including points of interest and accommodation. Detailed step-by-step descriptions (with pictures) of the route and information on detours/optional additions. Transport timetables and information for getting there and away. Safety information and advice. Contact details of accommodation, transport, local representatives and emergency support. Advice for things to do along the way. Suggestions for dining and self catering.
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How our self-guided holidays work
Self guided walking and cycling holidays offer freedom, independence and choice, allowing you to tailor your holidays in the UK & Europe to your interest and travel style. Our detailed Route Notes will contain all of the information you need to plan how you would like to approach each day, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. As you are not limited by the constraints of group travel, you are free to shorten or lengthen your walk as the terrain permits and can even take a day off, although you may need to travel onto your next accommodation by taxi or public transport in order to do so.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
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Low Deposit
Walkers' Britain requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of walkers' britain charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Cyprus Winter Walking
8 Days Starting and ending in Paphos, Cyprus
Visiting: Drouseia, Kathikas, Akamas Peninsula, Polis, Paphos
Tour operator:
Tour code:
JCW
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided