Explore the Beauty of Cycling in Cyprus: Your Ultimate Guide to a Cyclist's Paradise
Welcome to Cyprus, a sun-drenched island where the azure Mediterranean Sea meets rolling hills and historic landscapes, forming an idyllic haven for cyclists seeking adventure, beauty, and island charm. In this guide, we'll lead you through the vibrant world of cycling in Cyprus, revealing hidden gems, breathtaking routes, and unique experiences that make this Mediterranean destination a true cyclist's paradise.
Rediscovering the Joy of Cycling
Once the primary mode of transportation on the island until the early '70s, bicycles are making a comeback thanks to efforts from local authorities and state support. Continuous efforts resulted in the creation of new bicycle paths in coastal towns and suburbs of the capital, Lefkosia (Nicosia). The Cyprus Cycling Federation, a member of the International Cycling Union (UCI), organises annual road races since 1978 and hosts the "Afxentia," a three-day international mountain bike competition attracting renowned cyclists from across Europe.
Coastal Bliss
Begin your cycling adventure along enchanting coastal routes, treating yourself to mesmerising views of the Mediterranean. Feel the invigorating sea breeze as you pedal along pristine beaches, passing through charming villages and ancient ruins that narrate Cyprus' rich history.
Conquer the Mountains
Venture inland to tackle challenging ascents in the mountainous terrains, exploring the Troodos Mountains, which house picturesque villages, dense forests, and the famed Mount Olympus. These terrains offer a thrilling challenge for cyclists of every skill level.
Cultural Journey on Two Wheels
Immerse yourself in the island's cultural heritage by cycling through charming towns and historical sites. Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like Paphos and Choirokoitia, where ancient ruins and archaeological wonders create a perfect blend of history and adventure.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Trails
Escape the tourist crowds and unveil the lesser-known cycling trails that showcase the authentic beauty of Cyprus. From winding country roads to secret forest paths, these routes provide a serene escape into nature's embrace, allowing you to connect with the island on a more intimate level.
Embark on a cycling odyssey in Cyprus, where each pedal stroke unveils a new facet of this cyclist's paradise.
Seasonal Riding
Learn about the best times to visit Cyprus for cycling adventures, considering factors like weather, temperature, and special events. Whether you prefer a springtime bloom or a summer coastal breeze, Cyprus has a season for every cyclist.
Bike Rentals and Services
Navigate the logistics of bringing your bike or renting one on the island. Discover reputable bike rental shops and services that cater to cyclists of all levels, ensuring you have a seamless experience exploring Cyprus on two wheels. Contact Just Cyprus Villas to assist with bike rental.
Cycling Routes
Lefkosia = Nicosia
Lemesos = Limassol
Ammochostos = Famagusta
Things to watch out for in Cyprus
- Never forget that driving in Cyprus, in contrast to the rest of Europe, is on the left-hand side of the road, following the British system.
- Always travel in single file, so as not to be a hazard for oncoming motorists.
- Avoid main roads or busy urban roads.
- Choose alternative roads that are less congested.
- Always wear a protective cycle helmet.
- Always carry the tools you might need for maintenance or repairs.
- Be prepared for sudden changes in the weather by packing a waterproof cover or windbreaker.
Nicosia Cycling Routes
Lefkosia-Machairas-Lythrodontas-Lefkosia
ROUTE: Agios Mamas grade separated junction 210m, Deftera 275m (6km), Psimolofou 315m (10km), Episkopi 340m (13km), Politiko 385m (15km), Filani 545m (20km), Machairas monastery 950m (31.2km), Agios Onoufrios 685m (36km), Mantra tou Kampiou 665m (38.4km), Lythrodontas 440m (46km), Analiontas 375m (52.5km), Tseri 285m (61km), Tseriou street roundabout 210m (66km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 66km Height gain: 705m
DIFFICULTY RATE: A relatively difficult course climbing steadily for about 15km. It requires a mountain bike with a minimum of 21 speeds.
ROAD CONDITION: A combination of paved and unpaved roads
DESCRIPTION: The course starts at the Agios Mamas grade-separated junction, between Lakatameia and Strovolos and then heads south travelling through the villages of Kato and Pano Deftera. From there, it goes along the old road to Psimolofou, travelling through agricultural land, to reach the villages of Episkopeio and Politiko, near Agios Irakleidios monastery. From there it heads towards Filani and Machairas. The route from Politiko to Machairas monastery is a steady uphill, while that from Filani to Machairas monastery is a dirt track.
At a distance of 4km outside Politiko the road to the right leads to the village of Lazanias, while that to the left to the Agia Skepi chapel and the Machairas Monastery’s Educational Centre. After a mild ascent for about 3km, it comes across the Machairas quarry, from where a difficult climb begins going all the way up to the monastery.
Just before the monastery, is the underground hideout of Gregoris Afxentiou, a Cypriot freedom fighter against the British. The road from here on is paved.
West of the monastery and to the right, is the road that leads to the villages of Lazanias, Gourri and Farmakas and joins up with the Lefkosia – Pitsylia route. This route continues to the left and east and then once more turns to the north and starts descending.
After 6km it goes past the Agios Onoufrios chapel and 3km further on it reaches the picnic site of Mantra tou Kampiou where public toilets and water are available. This is the official site of the 7km mountain bike piste of the Cyprus Cycling Federation, where the international “Afxentia” race is held every year on the first weekend of March.
Past the picnic site, the course heads east on 6km of dirt road towards Lythrodontas. On the outskirts of the village, the course turns north towards Analiontas, Tseri.
Lythrodontas-Kionia-Lythrodontas
ROUTE: Lythrodontas 440m, Kyprovasa 435m (6km), Vavatsinia 890m (17.5km), Kionia picnic site 1260m (25km), Machairas monastery 950m (30km), Agios Onoufrios 685m (35km), Mantra tou Kampiou 665m (37.4km), Lythrodontas 440m (45km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 45km Height gain:890m
DIFFICULTY RATE: A very difficult course with steep uphills and sudden, lengthy descents. It requires a mountain bike with 24 speeds and a front fork suspension.
ROAD CONDITION: A major part of the course is on rough dirt tracks.
DESCRIPTION: The route offers one of the most beautiful views that the Machairas mountains have to offer. The scenery changes at Dipotamos Valley, Larnaka Bay and the Mesaoria plains with Lefkosia at the centre and the Pentadaktylos mountains in the distance. The route starts from the central square of the village of Lythrodontas and heads left towards Kyprovasa just outside the village on the road to Machairas, going through olive groves typical of the area. From Kyprovasa, the course turns to the west towards Profitis Ilias. At the junction with the road leading to Profitis Ilias, the route continues to the left heading south towards Vavatsinia. It’s worth stopping here to quench your thirst at the Petris water fountain.
After a steady 6km climb, the route reaches the paved Lefkara-Vavatsinia road. The village of Vavatsinia itself is situated a short distance away to the right.
Once inside the village, and after turning right for Machairas, the steep paved road becomes a dirt road. It goes past the Moutti of Pelekanou peak and carries on a relatively flat bit of road until it reaches the Kionia picnic site.
After Kionia the road is downhill for about 10km and leads to the chapel of Agios Onoufrios. From there, the road heads back to Lythrodontas via the picnic site of Mantra tou Kampiou, at first paved but then becoming a dirt track.
Lefkosia-Adelfoi Forest-Asinou
ROUTE: Agios Mamas grade separated junction 210m, Palaiometocho 240m (15km), Meniko 270m (20km), Kato Moni 400m (30km), Agia Marina 470m (38km), Kapouras 575m (47.5km), Kannavia 785m (50km), Agia Eirini 860m (53.5km), Spilia 1100m (58.6 km), Asinou 420m (83km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 83km Height gain: 975m
DIFFICULTY RATE: A difficult course with an average gradient of 2% but not greater than 5%.The course requires a mountain bike with 21 speeds.
ROAD CONDITION: A variety of surfaces of both paved roads and dirt roads.
DESCRIPTION: This excursion takes cyclists from the outskirts of Lefkosia to the forest of Adelfoi and past the early Byzantine church of Panagia Forviotissa (Asinou). The route’s starting point is the junction on the outskirts of Lakatameia near the “Metro” supermarket. The route heads west for about half a kilometre before it reaches the Lakatameia bicycle path on the banks of the Pediaios riverbed. The bicycle path ends south on Agios Georgios Street, where it turns right and west reaching the traffic lights on the Lefkosia-Palaichori road. Almost exactly opposite the traffic lights lies the road that leads to the village of Agioi Trimithias and then towards Palaiometocho and Meniko. From Meniko the route follows a dirt road before reaching the paved road just outside the village of Kato Moni. From there Mitsero quarry is visible to the southeast and the Troodos mountains to the southwest. From Kato Moni the route heads north on the Peristerona-Platanistasa road. It climbs for a short distance then turns right towards the village of Agia Marina. From Agia Marina it passes through the village of Agios Georgios, and past the Kapoura picnic site and the villages of Kannavia and Spilia.
There is a dirt road at the entrance of Spilia and to the right that leads to Asinou and the area where EOKA (the movement fighting for the independence of Cyprus from the British) was most active in.
The dirt road travels north through the Adelfoi forest for 23km and leads to the Byzantine church Panagia Forviotissa in Asinou.
(An alternative road for Asinou is the 9km forest road just after the Kapouras picnic site to the west.)
After Asinou (3km), along a paved road, is the village of Nikitari where road signs lead back to Lefkosia through the villages of Vyzakia and Orounta. This part of the road is not paved and from Orounta the course turns north on the Peristerona-Platanistasa road towards Kato Moni for the return journey to Lefkosia. An alternative and less complicated route is via Orounta and Peristerona and back to Lefkosia along the main Lefkosia-Morfou road.
National Forest Park Athalassa
DIFFICULTY RATE: An easy route for all types of bicycles.
ROAD CONDITION: Paved road throughout.
DESCRIPTION: National Forest Park Athalassa was given a 16km long bicycle path on the initiative of the Forestry Department. It is a popular area for the inhabitants of the capital, who go there to exercise or just for fun. National Forest Park Athalassa is located south of Lefkosia and to the east of the Lefkosia - Lemesos motorway.
Lakatameia and Strovolos Bicycle Paths
DIFFICULTY RATE: An easy route for all types of bicycle
ROAD CONDITION: Unpaved but smooth path.
DESCRIPTION: The Lakatameia and Strovolos Municipalities have created an 8km long bicycle path along the banks of the Pediaios River, from Lakatameia to the Presidential Palace.
Limassol Cycling Routes
Lemesos-Ancient Amathous
ROUTE: Lemesos coast, Germasogeia tourist area 5km, ancient Amathous 10km, Agia Varvara 11km
TOTAL DISTANCE: 11km
DIFFICULTY RATE: An easy ride for all types of bicycles.
ROAD CONDITION: Entirely paved.
DESCRIPTION: This route is a bicycle tour of Lemesos. There are very few variations in level and are not worth mentioning. It takes cyclists through the tourist area of Germasogeia, ancient Amathous and the nearby chapel of Agia Varvara with its eucalyptus grove and its lovely beach. The route begins from the old port of Lemesos and heads northeast along the coast. It goes through the tourist area of Germasogeia with its many shops, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels and traditional tavernas. The route ends at the archaeological site of Amathous. A short distance down the road is the old chapel of Agia Varvara, once a favourite spot for local fishermen. Just opposite the chapel, there is a beautiful eucalyptus grove that provides plenty of shade for swimmers.
Ancient Amathous-Governor’s Beach
ROUTE: Ancient Amathous, Moni cement factory 6km, Agios Georgios Alamanos river 11km, Governor’s Beach 15km.
TOTAL DISTANCE: 15km.
DIFFICULTY RATE: Hard and uneven surface. It requires a good quality mountain bike with 24 speeds and front fork suspension.
ROAD CONDITION: Apart from the first 5km of paved roads, the rest of the route is on an uneven surface.
DESCRIPTION: This excursion is for mountain bike fanatics who will appreciate the technical difficulties involved. Although there are few level changes, the fact that a large part is on rocky ground calls for a good sense of balance and technical skills. This route starts where the Lemesos-ancient Amathous route ends and goes in the same direction along the old Lemesos-Lefkosia road for 5km until it reaches the Moni flyover. There it turns off onto a dirt road to the right and heads south towards the coast. It goes past several industrial units as well as the Moni quarry where it turns left heading east.
This part of the route is full of cycling thrills, ending up at Governor’s Beach.
Halfway along the route, about 4km, is a biological waste-processing unit. Just before the uphill leading to the unit, there is a narrow path carved out of the cliff on the right, which descends to the dry riverbed of Agios Georgios Alamanos. The road at the riverbed is smoother and heads north for about 600m before turning right to get across. It is not far from there to the coast, with Governor’s Beach 5km away.
Lemesos-Fasouri-Pachna-Lemesos
ROUTE: Port traffic lights 20m, Zakaki 25m (1km), Asomatos 30m (5km), Fasouri 40m (7.5km), Kourion 40m (14km), Kourion Stadium 115m (15km), Sanctuary of Apollon Ylatis 120m (17.3km), Episkopi military base 150m (20km), Happy Valley 50m (22.4km), Paramali 50m (26km), Avdimou 100m (30km), Prastio 400m (35km), Agios Amvrosios 580m (47.7km), Kivides 615m (51km), Souni 530m (55km), Kantou 170m (61km), Erimi 115m (63.4km), Kolossi 95m (65.4km), Kolossi castle 70m (66.1km), Fasouri 40m (70km), Asomatos 30m (72km), Zakaki 30m (76km), port traffic lights 20m (77km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 77km Height gain: 660m
DIFFICULTY RATE: It is a relatively long route but it does not present any particular difficulty except for a few steep uphills, which require a bicycle with speeds.
ROAD CONDITION: Good quality, paved roads throughout.
DESCRIPTION: The excursion goes through the western villages of the Lemesos district. It travels past traditional wine-producing villages, goes along the picturesque Fasouri road where the cypress trees growing on either side form a canopy of leaves overhead, and drives past important archaeological sites like that of Kourion.
From the Lemesos port traffic lights, the route heads west towards Zakaki. For about 15km the landscape consists of citrus orchards. Asomatos village and Fasouri settlement are the main orange-producing areas of Lemesos. Along the old Lemesos-Pafos road, the route goes past the chapel of Agios Ermogenis, the entrance to the archaeological site of Kourion and the popular Kourion beach. It then climbs steeply for about 1km and arrives at the Ancient Stadium of Kourion and the Sanctuary of Apollo Ylatis.
Next, the route goes past the military base of Episkopi and the village of Paramali, where it starts to climb to the north towards Avdimou and Prastio until it reaches Pachna, the main wine-producing village of the region. The village is full of vineyards, as are the following villages of Agios Amvrosios and Kivides, which are smaller in size and population.
After Kivides the route is downhill and offers a spectacular view to the east of the town and the bay of Lemesos spread out below in all its glory as well as the Akrotiri peninsula and the bay of Episkopi. The straight road that leads to Souni and Kantou is relaxing and enables one to enjoy the countryside. Shortly after Kantou is Erimi, a village located on the old Lemesos - Pafos road. From there the route turns left in an easterly direction, and then right to Kolossi and its medieval castle. The return journey to Lemesos is via Fasouri.
Germasogeia-Kalo Chorio-Polemidia
ROUTE: Germasogeia 50m, Germasogeia dam 130m (4.2km), Akrounta 140m (7.5km), Dierona 455m (21.5km), Arakapas 385m (23.7km), Kalo Chorio 690m (32.4km), Agios Mamas 560m (41.8km), Kapileio 495m (44.2km), Korfi 580m (50km), Polemidia - Lemesos 90m (63.5km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 63.5km Height gain: 840m
DIFFICULTY RATE: Average. It requires a mountain bike with at least 21 speeds.
ROAD CONDITION: A combination of paved and dirt roads.
DESCRIPTION: This excursion goes through the eastern villages of the Lemesos district as well as some of the mountain villages in the foothills of the Pitsylia region, such as Agros. You can also go down towards Palaichori along the roads of the Lefkosia district. The route heads north starting at the Germasogeia roundabout. It climbs through the village, and goes past the Germasogeia dam and the villages of Akrounta, Dierona and Arakapas.
At Arakapas, the route turns west and continues climbing steadily to the village of Kalo Chorio where it meets the Lemesos-Pitsylia road. Heading in the direction of Lemesos, a short distance down the road and to the right, is the dirt road that leads to Agios Mamas. From Agios Mamas the route begins to descend along a paved road passing through the villages of Kapileio and Korfi to reach the roundabout of Polemidia on the outskirts of Lemesos.
Larnaka-Ammochostos Cycling Routes
Larnaka Tourist Beach-Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque- Meneou
ROUTE: Larnaka Tourist Beach 5m, Larnaka 5m (10km), Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque 5m (15km), Meneou 10m (18km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 18km.
DIFFICULTY RATE: An easy route, ideal for all bicycles.
ROAD CONDITION: Good quality paved roads throughout.
DESCRIPTION: This excursion is a cycling tour of Larnaka. The route begins from the Larnaka Tourist Beach and heads south to the Larnaka port roundabout along the bicycle path on the left-hand side of the road. It continues straight, goes along Athinon Avenue (Finikoudes Promenade), past Larnaka Castle and Mackenzie Beach, and turns west to get onto the Larnaka airport road turning left at the traffic lights. The route goes past the airport roundabout and shortly afterward turns right to the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque. Here there is a restaurant and a picnic site in the nearby woods.
Alternative route: To make the trip slightly longer, take the road from Meneou to the coast heading southeast, and get on the main coastal road that goes past the Kiti Medieval Tower. Then turn right heading northwest through the villages of Pervolia and Kiti and back to Meneou. Going straight on leads to Meneou.
Rizoelia Forest
DIFFICULTY RATE: Easy to average route on unpaved roads. It requires a mountain bike with 21 speeds. Front fork suspension is recommended.
ROAD CONDITION: Unpaved.
DESCRIPTION: The small forest of Rizoelia is next to the roundabout on the outskirts west of Aradippou. There are plenty of dirt roads for mountain biking fanatics and for those who love riding in a beautiful forest or want to enjoy the view from the top of the hill.
Voroklini Hill
DIFFICULTY RATE: Various levels of difficulty. It requires a mountain bike with at least 21 speeds and a front fork suspension.
ROAD CONDITION: Unpaved road.
DESCRIPTION: The Gerakomoutis hill, situated at 207m above sea level and with a chapel dedicated to Profitis Ilias, offers exciting routes as well as magnificent views over Larnaka Bay.
Agia Napa-Pyrgos Xylofagou
ROUTE: Agia Napa 10m, Potamos Liopetriou 15m (10km), Xylofagou Medieval Tower 97m (16km), Agia Napa 10m (32km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 32km
DIFFICULTY RATE: An easy route but it requires a 21-speed mountain bike.
ROAD CONDITION: A combination of paved and unpaved roads.
DESCRIPTION: This excursion does the round from Agia Napa to Xylofagou and comes back along the Xylofagou - Agia Napa road. The route begins at the little harbour of Agia Napa and climbs towards the north until it reaches the traffic lights where it turns left and to the west, going along the bicycle path on the left hand side of the road. It then goes past Makronisos on the dirt road that leads to the Agia Thekla chapel and the fishing shelter by the Potamos Liopetriou.
Heading south it goes around Cape Pyla, until it reaches the Xylofagou Medieval Tower. From there it takes a northern course to reach the outskirts of Xylofagou and turns right and to the east taking the Xylofagou - Agia Napa road back to Agia Napa.
Kofinou-Larnaka
ROUTE: Kofinou 155m, Alethriko 55m (10km), Kalo Chorio grade separated junction 55m (20km), Fire Department traffic lights 25m (25km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 25km Height gain:5m
DIFFICULTY RATE: An easy route ideal for all types of bicycles with speeds.
ROAD CONDITION: Good quality, paved roads throughout.
DESCRIPTION: This route links the route from Kofinou to Larnaka and vice versa, because Kofinou is often the start or end of several routes. This excursion starts at the village of Kofinou and heads northeast. It travels along the outskirts of the villages of Menogeia and Anglisides, goes through the village of Alethriko and reaches the grade-separated junction at Kalo Chorio, ending at the Fire Department traffic lights in Larnaka.
Mazotos-Vavatsinia-Kofinou
ROUTE: Mazotos fuel station 45m, Zygi 15m (18.5km), Psematismenos 115m (24km), Choirokoitia 220m (28.5km), Vavla 495m (37km), Lageia 440m (39.5km), Ora 540m (45.7km), Vavatsinia 855m (56km), Pano Lefkara 595m (66.2km), Skarinou 115m (75km), Kofinou 150m (80km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 80km Height gain: 965m
DIFFICULTY RATE: A difficult route with long but not very steep uphills. It requires a 16-speed street bicycle.
ROAD CONDITION: Paved roads throughout.
DESCRIPTION: This route travels along the western coastal district of Larnaka and then climbs towards the hillside villages of the region, going past the archaeological site of Choirokoitia and ending at Kofinou.
The route begins at the Mazotos fuel station on the outskirts of the village and continues on the road towards the villages of Agios Theodoros and Zygi to the southwest. It travels along the coast until it reaches Zygi.
From there the road climbs to the north towards Psematismenos, crosses the Lefkosia - Lemesos motorway over the footbridge, and reaches the archaeological site of Choirokitia. The route continues in a northwestern direction, going through the village of Choirokitia and, climbing steadily, goes through the villages of Vavla, Lageia and Ora.
From Ora it turns right and after 10km, heading first north and then northwest, reaches Vavatsinia. Vavatsinia is a good spot to rest and have a snack before heading back down to Kofinou via the villages of Pano Lefkara and Skarinou. Kofinou is a 5km ride to the north of Skarinou on the old Lefkosia - Lemesos road. Alternative route: From Vavla the route turns right and climbs up to the village of Kato Drys (6km), then three kilometers later gets on the Skarinou -Vavatsinia road, just below Pano Lefkara. This route is 22km shorter.
Pafos-Polis Cycling Routes
Geroskipou-Tsada-Pafos
ROUTE: Geroskipou 75m, Agia Marinouda 150m (3km), Marathounta 280m (8km), Stavros tis Minthas (golf course) 520m (12km), Tsada 660m (15km), Mesogi 310m (18km), Pafos 70m (24km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 24km.
DIFFICULTY RATE: Not very difficult, but not easy either. A mountain bike of 21 speeds is required.
ROAD CONDITION: A variety of surfaces of both paved and dirt roads.
DESCRIPTION: This excursion goes from Geroskipou to the Monastery of Stavros tis Minthas and to the golf course, the village of Tsada, ending in Pafos. The route starts from the centre of Geroskipou and goes towards Lemesos, travelling along the old Lemesos-Pafos road. Between Geroskipou and Koloni is a turning to the left leading to Agia Marinouda in the north. The route goes through the village and climbs in the same direction to reach the village of Marathounta.
From there it turns right and climbs towards the village of Episkopi in the Pafos district. Just before reaching the top of the hill, it takes the dirt road to the left and north, which leads to the golf course and the monastery of Stavros tis Minthas. A paved road begins from here and 3 kilometres to the left it reaches the village Tsada. From Tsada it is downhill to Pafos along the Pafos-Polis road.
Kato Pafos-Timi forest
ROUTE: Pafos port 5m, Geroskipou Tourist Beach 5m (4km), Timi coast 5m (12km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 12km.
DIFFICULTY RATE: A mountain bike is required.
ROAD CONDITION: A variety of surfaces consisting of both paved and dirt roads.
DESCRIPTION: This excursion is a bicycle tour of the Pafos area. It goes along the coastal front of Kato Pafos, past the Geroskipou Tourist Beach and ends at Timi beach next to Pafos airport and the nearby eucalyptus grove.
The route starts at Pafos harbour and heads in a southeasterly direction, travelling along the coast on a bicycle path on the righthand side of the road after the Pafos Beach Hotel to the Geroskipou Tourist Beach. From there it goes along a dirt road up to the Pafos airport fence and crosses (on foot) the Ezousa riverbed. The route then follows the airport fence, heading first north and then east, to join the paved road to the airport. At that point, the route turns right towards the sea and a bit further down reaches the small bay and beach of Timi and the eucalyptus grove with its picnic site.
Polis-Neo Chorio-Akamas lighthouse
ROUTE: Polis 30m, Lakki 5m (5km), Neo Chorio 180m (10km), Smigies picnic site 250m (12km), Akamas lighthouse 210m (22km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 22km.
DIFFICULTY RATE: A difficult route. A mountain bike with at least 21 speeds is required. Front fork suspension is recommended.
ROAD CONDITION: Varied surfaces consisting of both paved and dirt roads.
DESCRIPTION: The greatest advantage of the Polis area, as far as cycling is concerned, is its proximity to the Akamas peninsula. The route begins in Polis and heads west towards Lakki and the Baths of Aphrodite. Shortly after Lakki and just before the Baths it turns south and climbs towards Neo Chorio. The route goes through the village and then heads west. The road becomes a dirt road just outside the village. It passes the Smigies picnic site, which is the last stop for water.
From Smigies the route climbs rather steeply and turns right heading southwest along the slopes of a hill offering alternating views of the east and west sides of the peninsula. Three kilometres from Smigies a turning to the right leads to Pyrgos tis Rigainas, while going straight for another 2 kilometres leads to the road to Lara, Fontana Amorosa and the Baths of Aphrodite. Continuing along this road lead to the Akamas lighthouse, the perfect place where to enjoy a magnificent sunset, provided you can drive back safely in the dark!
Alternative route: You can return to Polis from the lighthouse by going along the Fontana Amorosa road to the Baths of Aphrodite.
Polis-Fasli-Polis
ROUTE: Polis 30m, Androlikou 300m (5km), Fasli 500m (7km), Smigies 250m (11km), Neo Chorio 180m (13km), Polis 30m (23km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 23km
DIFFICULTY RATE: Difficult route with steep uphills and downhills. A mountain bike with front fork suspension is required.
ROAD CONDITION: A variety of surfaces.
DESCRIPTION: From Polis the route heads southwest over the Polis-Pafos road until it reaches a turning to the right to Androlikou. Climbing steadily at Xeropotamos, it goes through the villages of Androlikou and Fasli. It then continues in the same direction until it reaches another turning to the right at a dirt road, which goes downhill to the west of the Akamas mountain ridge until the end of the peninsula. After about 4 kilometres of dirt road there is another turning to the right, which leads to the Smigies picnic site and then to Neo Chorio where it takes the paved road back to Polis.
Polis-Agios Merkourios-Argaka-Polis
ROUTE: Polis 30m, Argaka 70m (8km), Agios Merkourios 350m (15km), Argaka 70m (20km), Polis 30m (28km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 28km.
DIFFICULTY RATE: A relatively easy route, despite being on a dirt road. It requires a mountain bike with front fork suspension.
ROAD CONDITION: A variety of surfaces.
DESCRIPTION: This route goes northeast along the Polis-Pyrgos road. It travels along the coast until a turning to the right leading to the village of Argaka. The road goes past the front of the village school and continues straight and south along a dirt road. It then turns southeast to the picnic site at Agios Merkourios. From there it goes along a descending forest road to Argaka and back to Polis.
Regional Cycling Trips in the Troodos Area
Troodos-Agios Nikolaos Stegis-Troodos
ROUTE: Troodos square 1730m, Karvounas 1190m (9km), Platania 1090m (10km), Agios Nikolaos 850m (18km), Troodos square 1730m (36km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 36km
DIFFICULTY RATE: A very difficult route. It requires a 21-speed mountain bike in good condition.
ROAD CONDITION: A variety of surfaces.
DESCRIPTION: This route descends from Troodos Square to the monastery of Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis and climbs steadily from the chromium quarry on the Troodos - Prodromos road, back to Troodos Square.
Troodos-Psilo Dendro-Kalidonia-Troodos
ROUTE: Troodos Square 1730m, Psilo Dendro 1185m, (11km), Kalidonia 1300m, (14km), Troodos Square 1730m, (18km).
TOTAL DISTANCE: 18km.
DIFFICULTY RATE: A relatively easy route apart from the last few kilometres of steep uphills. A mountain bike with front fork suspension is necessary.
ROAD CONDITION: A variety of surfaces.
DESCRIPTION: This excursion heads south from Troodos square descending to the Psilo Dendro area above Platres. The road then climbs to the Kalidonia Falls and then returns to Troodos Square along the Platres - Troodos road. Starting at Troodos Square the route takes the dirt road to the left and heads southeast going gradually downhill for 11 kilometers to the Psilo Dendro area. From there the dirt road goes uphill for about 3 kilometres to a fork, where the right road leads to the Kalidonia Falls and the left one continues to the Platres - Troodos road, where another right turn takes you back north to Troodos Square.
