Cyprus is great for bike riding, near the coast a lot of the terrain is flat and you can experience the sight of the beautiful blue ocean, further inland you can get away from the main roads onto the tracks and trails.
Cyprus is a biker’s paradise and have excellent weather conditions, cycling can be enjoyed almost throughout the year.
But it is the island’s compactness that is its main attraction, offering rapid changes of terrain and scenery on even the shortest bike trails. Within the space of 10 km you can go from rocky to clay, and steep to flat, enabling you to experience all surfaces within a short period of time, and making the island into one huge mountain bike arena.
Always wear a bike helmet, even if you are going for a short ride.Your bike helmet should fit you properly. You don’t want it too small or too big. Never wear a hat under your bike helmet.
Compared to some outdoors hobbies, cycling is remarkably easy to get started in – but it’s not quite a simple as buying a bike and jumping straight on it.
There are a few accessories that will make the experience far safer and more comfortable, so we’ve put together a list of some key purchases you might want to make…
Essentials for Every Trip
- Helmet
- Bottles of water
- Fast-drying, durable clothing. Most importantly, your clothing should be comfortable.
- Sunglasses and suntan lotion
- Hat
- Sturdy rain gear – pants and jacket recommended.
- Swimsuit – many tours offer some type of swimming
- Towel
- Personal toilet items and Baby Wipes
- Personal first-aid (Aspirin, eye drops, personal medicine, etc.)
- Insect repellent (Avon’s Skin-So-Soft works well)
- Headlamp or Flashlight with extra batteries
Cyprus Biking – You will find:
- Mile after mile of free flowing pine forest trails
- Rocky mule paths and rough cobbled tracks
- Alpine roads worthy of the Tour de France
- Smooth dirt roads
- Lazy coastal (flat!) paths/roads
- Gnarly single track (for mountain bike enthusiasts)
Here’s an easy cycle route in Cyprus.
Drouseia to Latchi harbour
The delightful village of Drouseia lies some 600m up on the edge of the Akamas peninsula. If you want to experience the beauty of the Akamas with the wind in your hair then this is the route for you.
From Drouseia, take the road towards Pittokopos and turn left at the wooden pagoda onto a dirt track. This is signposted as the E4 (the European long distance path which runs right around the island). Simply follow this track which runs along the spine of the Akamas.
Strange rock formations at the start of the ride will amaze you as will the views of both Chrysochous Bay on the Polis side to your right and Lara bay on the Paphos side to your left. This section is known locally as the “windy ridge” and if it is a windy day, you will find out why! After approx 10km you will reach a green sign where you turn right towards Neo Chorio past the picnic site at Smigies.
Distance: 20km
Difficulty: EASY ( 95% downhill!)
Terrain: Vehicle width fire road (some slightly rocky sections) until Neo Chorio then tarmac to Latchi.
MAIN ROUTES
Excursion 1:
Lefkosia-Pitsylia
Route: Agios Mamas grade separated junction 210m, Deftera 275m(6km), Psimolofou 315m (10km), Episkopeio 340m (13km), Arediou 355m (17km), Malounta 405m (20km), Klirou 430m (21km), Fikardou 890m (30km), Gourri 755m (31.7 km), Farmakas 955m (46km), Sykopetra 1060m (52km), Palaichori 930m (60km), Askas 915m (63.5km), Fterikoudi 1040m (66km), Alona 1035m (71km), Platanistasa 975m (73km), “Gefiri tis Panagias” forestry station 530m (84km), Mitsero 455m (90km), Agrokipia 430m (92.6 km), Arediou 355m (98km), Episkopeio 340m (102km), Psimolofou 315m (105km), Deftera 275m (109km), Agios Mamas grade separated junction 210m (115km).
Total distance: 115km Height gain:1265m
Difficulty rate: Quite a difficult route, even though the road is downhill all the way past the village of Alona. It requires a mountain bike with at least 21 speed. A front fork suspension is recommended.
Road condition: A variety of paved roads and dirt roads.
Route description: This course goes through the beautiful landscape and picturesque villages of the Pitsylia area, famous for its good wine and smoked meat specialities. Although the route is quite long, the section past the village of Alona is downhill all the way to Lefkosia.
The route follows part of the course from Lefkosia to Machairas up to the village of Episkopeio, but from there it heads west to the village of Arediou instead of the village of Politiko.
It gradually climbs from the old Lefkosia-Palaichori road going through Malounta and Klirou and turns left towards Fikardou. From Fikardou it goes downhill to Gourri and then turns right on the road towards Lazanias and Machairas. Just before Lazanias the route follows the first dirt road to the right, leading to the village of Farmakas. This dirt road is like a parapet above the cliffs and will give adrenaline addicts the ride of their lives. From Farmakas the route continues south to just above Profitis Ilias at Sykopetra. From there it follows a paved road to the right and heads west to Palaichori.
From the village of Palaichori the route leads to the Lefkosia-Agros road, turns left and after a short climb turns right to take the road for Askas, Fterikoudi and Alona, where it turns right heading north and begins the descent towards Lefkosia. After leaving Alona the course descends towards Platanistasa, passes the “Gefiri tis Panagias” forestry station, arriving at a right turn that leads east to the villages of Mitsero and Agrokipia and ultimately coming out at the Lefkosia-Palaichori road.
From there to the left and south, the course reaches the Klirou District Gymnasium, where it turns right just before Arediou to meet the old Lefkosia-Palaichori road heading back to Lefkosia in the opposite direction.
Excursion 2:
Machairas-Pitsylia
Route: Machairas monastery 925m, Gourri 740m (8.5km), Farmakas 955m (15km), Apliki 780m (20km), Palaichori 930m (25km).
Total distance: 25km Height gain:240m
Difficulty rate: Although the entire route is on paved roads, there are several steep uphills. It requires a street bicycle with at least 14 speeds or a mountain bike with 21 speeds.
Road condition: For the most part this route is on paved roads.
Route description: This excursion is especially designed to combine an ascent into the Machairas forest with a descent into Lemesos, travelling through the Pitsylia area or further up to Troodos, or even returning to Lefkosia via an alternative route.
From the Machairas monastery the course heads west and passes through the small villages of Lazanias and Gourri, where the it turns south to Farmakas.
From Farmakas it heads southwest and descends towards the main Lefkosia – Palaichori road, with the Palaichori dam to the left. From there the road climbs to the left to go through Apliki, climbing steadily for 5km until it reaches Palaichori itself.
Excursion 3:
Lefkosia-Solea Valley
Route: Agios Mamas grade separated junction 210m, Agii Trimithias, 260m (12km), Palaiometocho 240m (15km), Meniko 270m (20km), Kato Moni 400m (30km), Agia Marina 470m (38km), Kapouras 575m (47.5km), Asinou 425m (56.5km), Agios Theodoros 470m (66.5km), Flasou 345m (70.5km), Evrychou 435m (73.5km), Kaliana 500m (76.5km), Galata 575m (80km), Kakopetria 665m (82.5km), Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis 850m (85.5km), Stavroulia 1145m (90km), Koutrafas 220m (122.5km), Nikitari 320m (126.5km), Vyzakia 260m (131.5km), Orounta 300m (140km), Kato Moni 400m (135km), Meniko 270m (145km), Palaiometocho 240m (150km), Agios Mamas grade separated junction 210m (165km).
Total distance: 165km Height gain:1380m
Difficulty rate: A difficult route climbing steadily at a 2% gradient on average, and maximum 5%. It requires a mountain bike with at least 21 speeds. Road condition: A combination of paved and unpaved roads. Route description: This excursion will take you through the Solea Valley with its traditional architecture and its picturesque Byzantine churches, some of which are on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The course follows the same route as that of the Lefkosia – Adelphoi- Asinou excursion until it reaches the Kapouras picnic site, from where it takes the alternative route towards Asinou and Agios Theodoros.
At Agios Theodoros the route crosses the main Lefkosia –Troodos road and reaches Kato Flasou where it begins to climb southwards going alongside the Karkotis river bank, and passing through the villages of Evrychou, Tembria, Kaliana, Galata and Kakopetria.
Keeping on the Kakopetria – Prodromos road, the road starts to climb towards the Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis monastery until it reaches a turning to the right leading to the area of Stavroulia. This part of the road is unpaved and descends in a northerly direction until it reaches the Linou – Pedoulas road. The view of the Solea Valley and the Morfou bay to the east is breathtaking. The Pedoulas – Linou road crosses the main Lefkosia-Troodos road and then heads in a northeasterly direction to the village of Koutrafas situated on the banks of the Elia river. The road then climbs towards the villages of Nikitari and Vyzakia, where it follows the same route back to Lefkosia via Orounta, Kato Moni, Meniko and Palaiometocho, ending up at the Agios Mamas grade separated junction.
Excursion 4:
Lefkosia-Larnaka Tourist Beach
Route: Lefkosia 180m, Latsia (Latsia) 235m (4km), Nisou 225m (15km), Dali 215m (17km), Lympia 235m (22km), Larnaka Fire Department traffic lights 25m (41.5km), port roundabout 10m (44.4km), Larnaka Tourist Beach 5m (51.5km)
Total distance: 51.5km Height gain:100m
Difficulty rate: The route does not present any difficulties and is ideal for all types of bicycles with speeds.
Road condition: The entire route is on paved roads.
Route description: This route is convenient for getting from Lefkosia to Larnaka and the coastal area outside the town. The course travels along the old Lefkosia-Lemesos road until Nisou and then on the old Larnaka-Nisou road. From the traffic lights at the junction of the Lemesos and Athalassa avenues, the route heads south on the motorway to Lemesos and Larnaka. After about 1km, it takes the Latsia exit on the left, which comes out at the old Lefkosia-Lemesos road. The route then goes through Latsia (Latsia) and its industrial area, followed by the industrial area of Dali.
At Nisou the route turns to the left heading east towards the small town of Dali. It goes through both Dali and the next village Lympia and then reaches the old Lefkosia-Larnaka road. From there it turns right heading northeast and travels parallel to the Lefkosia-Larnaka motorway until it reaches Rizoelia on the outskirts of Aradippou. From that point on, the route goes along the motorway next to the Larnaka industrial area and ends up at the Agios Georgios traffic lights. The Fire Department traffic lights are 1km down the road. Turning left at the Fire Department traffic lights leads to Stratigou Timagia avenue and the roundabout just outside Larnaka port. The route then goes north along the coast, past the oil refineries and the various petroleum companies, and enters the tourist area of Livadia, Voroklini and Pyla with its camping site in a small eucalyptus grove. It ends at the Larnaka Tourist Beach a little further down the road, having covered a distance of 11.5km.
Excursion 5:
Lefkosia-Lythrodontas-Mosfiloti-Larnaka
Route: Tseriou street roundabout 210m, Tseri 245m (5km), Analiontas 340m (14km), Lythrodontas 440m (20km), Mathiatis 400m (25km), Sia 300m (34km), Mosfiloti 260m (35km), Psevdas 200m (38.5km), Agia Anna 175m (40km), Kalo Chorio 105m (46.5km), Kalo Chorio grade separated junction 55m (50km), Fire Department traffic lights 25m (55km).
Total distance: 55km Height gain:195m
Difficulty rate: An easy route for any bicycle with speeds. Road condition: Paved roads throughout the entire route.
Route description: This route is an alternative for going from Larnaka to Lefkosia or vice versa. The monotony of travelling only on paved roads is broken by going through several villages allowing for a little sightseeing and rest. The route begins at the Tseriou street roundabout and goes through the villages of Tseri, Analiondas and Lythrodontas. It then takes an easterly course through the villages of Mathiatis, Sia, Mosfiloti, Psevdas and Agia Anna until it reaches the Kalo Chorio grade separated junction near the old Larnaka-Kofinou road. There it turns left and to the northwest to reach the Larnaka Fire Department traffic lights.
Excursion 6:
Tour of Deryneia
Route: Larnaka Tourist Beach 5m, Dhekeleia 10m (3km), Dhekeleia power station 20m (5km), Ormideia 20m (9km), Xylofagou 80m (15km), Potamos Liopetriou 50m (20km), Makronisos 40m (25km), Agia Napa 55m (27.5km), Cape Gkreko 115m (30km), Protaras 60m (45km), Agia Triada 60m (50km), Paralimni 105m (53km), Deryneia 90m (57.7km), Frenaros 100m (61.5km), Liopetri 35m (66.5km), Xylofagou 80m (72km), Dhekeleia power station 20m (80km), Dhekeleia 10m (82km), Larnaka
Tourist Beach 5m (85km).
Total distance: 85km Height gain: 260m
Difficulty rate: An easy course. It requires a street bicycle with speeds.
Road condition: Good quality paved road throughout.
Route description: Even though this route is quite long, it is not difficult and goes past the most popular beaches of Cyprus. The route travels along the coast and returns to Larnaka via the “red-soil” villages (Kokkinochoria) of the free Ammochostos Area (Famagusta). The route begins at the Larnaka Tourist Beach and heads east along the coastal road. It turns right at the roundabout just outside the British Sovereign Base Area of Dhekeleia, and enters the base. It turns right again at the next roundabout, goes past the Dhekeleia power station and travels along the outskirts of the village of Ormideia. It then turns right again, climbing a little as it passes outside the village of Xylofagou. Heading towards Agia Napa, the route goes past the fishing shelter of Potamos Liopetriou and Makronisos and then travels along the main Agia Napa – Paralimni road. It then turns right and takes the road for Cape Gkreko along a bicycle path on the right hand side of the road (the side nearest the sea). The turning to Cape Gkreko is 4km down the road to the right. Turning north from Cape Gkreko, the route goes past the Agios Anargyros picnic site and the Konnos area until it reaches Protaras. From Protaras the route continues to the village of Agia Triada where it turns left towards Paralimni. It cuts across Paralimni and reaches the road leading to Deryneia after turning right and heading north. From Deryneia the route heads back to Larnaka via the potato-growing “redsoil” villages of Frenaros and Liopetri, and after Xylofagou follows the same route back.
Excursion 7:
Larnaka-Athienou-Lefkosia
Route: Port roundabout 10m, Tsakilero 20m (1.6km), Aradippou 60m (5km), Athienou 190m (19km), Lympia 235m (31km), Dali 215m (37km), Nisou 225m (40km), Kotsiatis 270m (45km), Margi 285m (48.5km), Tseri 245m (54km), Tseriou street roundabout 210m (60km).
Total distance: 60km Height gain: 410m
Difficulty rate: Average. Requires a street bicycle with at least 14 speeds.
Road condition: Paved roads throughout. Route description: This is an alternative route to the Larnaka- Lefkosia excursion or vice versa and goes past the village of Athienou in the Mesaoria plain. The route begins at the Larnaka port roundabout
and heads west along Stratigou Timagia avenue until it reaches the Tsakkilero traffic lights where it turns right towards Aradippou, heading northwest. It goes through Aradippou, goes under the motorway to Paralimni and, keeping in the same direction, skirts the village of Avdellero before reaching Athienou. From Athienou the route turns south on the old Lefkosia – Larnaka road up to the
junction of the road to Lympia on the right heading west. From Lympia it passes through the villages of Dali and Nisou, goes under the Lefkosia – Lemesos motorway and through the villages of Kotsiatis and Margi. The route then turns north, goes through Tseri and ends at the Tseriou street roundabout in the Kokkines area just outside Lefkosia.
Excursion 8:
Larnaka-Kofinou-Nisou
Route: Port roundabout 10m, Fire Department traffic lights 25m (2.9km), Zinona – Phaneromeni traffic lights 30m (4.4km), Phaneromeni traffic lights 35m (7km), airport roundabout 15m (10km), Meneou 35m (14km), Kiti 35m (16km), Mazotos fuel station 45m (25km), Mazotos 40m (27km), Alaminos 90m (32km), Kofinou 155m (37km), Pyrga 340m (50km), Mosfiloti 295m (53.4km), Alampra 280m (58.2km), Nisou 225m (61km). Total distance: 61km Height gain: 505m
Difficulty rate: There are a number of steep uphills so the route
requires a street bicycle with at least 14 speeds.
Road condition: Paved roads throughout.
Route description: This excursion goes from Larnaka to Nisou through the hills of the Kakoradjia region, and are a hard ride. The route also links up nicely with a number of alternative routes. Starting at the Larnaka port roundabout, the route travels along the Stratigos Timagia avenue, crosses the traffic lights at the Fire Department, and continues straight to the next traffic lights where it turns left to reach the traffic lights by the Phaneromeni church on the Larnaka Airport – Meneou road. From there it turns right and goes south, past the airport roundabout and heads southwest to Meneou. Just before Kiti village, it turns right towards Mazotos, which is about 10km further down after the fuel station. The fuel station also happens to be the starting point for the Mazotos – Vavatsinia – Kofinou route. From Mazotos the route continues west towards Alaminos and reaches Kofinou where it meets the old Lefkosia – Lemesos road. It turns right and to the north towards Lefkosia, and from this point on becomes more difficult, owing to a 220m high vertical climb, which lasts for 6km. After that it is downhill all the way through the villages of Pyrga, Mosfiloti, Alampra and Nisou.
Excursion 9:
Kofinou-Lemesos-Pafos
Route: Kofinou 155m, Choirokoitia 185m (5km), Moni 70m (25km), Amathous 20m (30km), Potamos tis Germasogeias 10m (35km), Lemesos 10m (40km), Zakaki 10m (45km), Kourion 80m (60km), Episkopi military base 135m (65km), Happy Valley 25m (67km), Paramali 80m (70km), Pissouri 200m (81km), Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s birthplace) 10m (88.5km), Mandria 50m (100km), Acheleia 55m (105km), Geroskipou 80m (109km), Pafos Stadium 85m (110km).
Total distance: 110km Height gain: 510m
Difficulty rate: A long route without any particularly steep uphills, although some short distances could be described as such. It requires a good quality street bike with at least 14 speeds.
Road condition: Good quality paved roads throughout.
Route description: This excursion is designed for strong cyclists.
The entire route is along the old Lefkosia – Lemesos – Pafos road. The route starts at Kofinou, heading first south and then southwest, to reach Lemesos after passing through the villages of Choiroikitia, Moni, Amathous and Potamos tis Germasogeias before arriving in Lemesos. From Lemesos it goes west towards Zakaki, Fasouri and Kourion all the way to Petra tou Romiou, from where it goes northwest ending up near the Pafos stadium.
Excursion 10:
Pitsylia-Troodos
Route: Alona 1035m, Polystypos 1080m (4km), Chandria 1170m
(12km), Kyperounta 1115m (13.5km), Karvounas 1190m (19.5km),
Pano Amiantos 1400m (25km), Troodos square 1730m (28.3km).
Total distance: 28.3km Height gain: 695m
Difficulty rate: Even though this is a short route, it has steep uphills that require a good quality street bicycle with at least 14 speeds, or a mountain bike with 21 speeds .
Road condition: Paved roads throughout.
Route description: This route connects the areas of Pitsylia and Troodos. It is an interesting route for visiting the surrounding villages. From Alona the route heads southwest, goes through Polystypos and climbs to the northwest, passing underneath the Madari peak and reaching Chandria village. At Chandria it turns right and heads west, through Kyperounta to reach the crossroads at Karvounas. From Karvounas it heads south climbing steeply towards Pano Amiantos and then heads west climbing even more steeply to Troodos square. Before reaching the square it goes past the picnic sites of Almyrolivado and Livadi tou Pasa as well as a camping and a picnic site just before the square
Excursion 11:
Troodos-Pafos
Route: Troodos square 1730m, Psilo Dendro 1185m (7.2km), Pano Platres 1150m (7.7km), Mandria 845m (13km), Agios Nikolaos 740m (22km), Praitori 675m (24km), Kedares 540m (26km), Kidasi 280m (31.5km), Agios Georgios 185m (39km), Mamonia 165m (41km), Fasoula 130m (42.5km), Nikokleia 85m (49km), Mandria 40m (53.7km), Timi 50m (56.7km), Acheleia 55m (60km), Geroskipou
75m (63.5km), Pafos 75m (65km).
Total distance: 65km Heihgt gain: 20m
Difficulty rate: Easy route, mostly downhill. The bike, whether street bike or mountain bike, should have good brakes.
Road condition: Paved road throughout.
Route description: This excursion links the Troodos area to Pafos via the picturesque villages in the valley of the Diarizos river. From Troodos square the route heads south along the main Lemesos- Troodos road. At Psilo Dendro it turns right for Pano Platres and then goes on to Kato Platres. Just outside the village it turns right for Mandria and Pafos.
Heading southwest the route goes through Mandria and then enters the Diarizos valley going through the villages of Agios Nikolaos, Praitori, Kedares, Kidasi, Agios Georgios, Mamonia, Fasoula, Nikokleia, finally coming out at the old Lemesos-Pafos road. From there it turns west to reach Pafos via the villages of Mandria, Timi, Acheleia and Geroskipou.
Excursion 12:
Troodos square-Kykkos-Stavros tis Psokas
Route: Troodos square 1730m, Prodromos 1450m (9km), Pinewood 1350m (11km), Kykkos 1150m (30km), Stavros tis Psokas 840m (55km).
Total distance: 55km Height gain: 25m
Difficulty rate: Easy route, with a few uphills and plenty of downhills.
A street bike with speeds is required.
Road condition: Paved roads throughout.
Route description: This excursion links the Troodos area with the Kykko mountains and enables further trips to the northwest coast of the island, along the route from Stavros to Pyrgos or Polis.
The excursion begins in Troodos square and climbs to the west for about 2.5 km when it reaches a turning to the left leading to Mount Olympos from where it goes downhill to the village of Prodromos. It then turns right to the Pinewood area and travels above the village of Pedoulas to reach Kykkos monastery. Here there is an opportunity to stop at the restaurant before going on to Kampos.
A turning to the left before Kampos leads to Stavros tis Psokas to the west and 3.5 km further down, another turning to the left leads to the Cedar Valley. The route continues straight on for another 16 km until another turning to the left, which leads to the Stavros tis Psokas forestry station 3 kilometers along the way.
Excursion 13:
Stavros tis Psokas-Pyrgos
Route: Stavros 840m, Agios Georgios military camp 540m (26km), Pyrgos 20m (40km).
Total distance: 40km Height gain: 10m
Difficulty rate: A relatively easy route as it is mostly downhill.
Any kind of bike with speeds and brakes in good condition will do.
Road condition: Good quality paved road throughout.
Route description: This excursion is another alternative from Stavros tis Psokas instead of going to the village of Panagia and Pafos. This excursion leads to Pyrgos in the Tilliria region.
The route starts at the Stavros tis Psokas forestry station. It climbs a little to the north until it reaches a fork. The right-hand road leads east to Kykkos, while the road to the left heads west to Pomos and Kato Pyrgos. The latter is a winding downhill road, which emerges at the military camp of Agios Georgios above the Turkish enclave of Kokkina. From there the route turns right heading east to reach the coastal road and Pyrgos 6 km later.
Excursion 14:
Stavros tis Psokas-Panagia-Pafos
Route: Stavros 840m, Agia (camping side) 650m (9km), Panagia 890m (20km), Asprogia 645m (27km), Kannaviou 400m (32km), Agios Dimitrianos 540m (36km), Psathi 525m (38km), Polemi 520m (40km), Kallepeia 620m (45km), Tsada 560m (50km), Mesogi 310m (53km), Pafos 70m (65km).
Total distance: 65km Height gain: 475m
Difficulty rate: Despite being mostly downhill, there are quite a few steep up hills particularly on the paved parts of the road. A mountain bike with 21 speeds is recommended.
Road condition: A variety of surfaces consisting of both paved and dirt roads.
Route description: This excursion links the mountainous areas of Troodos and Kykkos with Pafos.
From the forestry station at Stavros tis Psokas, the dirt road heads in a southwesterly direction going through one of the most beautiful regions of the island. Uphills and downhills alternate until the camping site at Agia from where the road starts to climb steadily to the end of the forest, a little outside Panagia, at the picnic site in Monasilakkas, where the dirt road ends. The road then climbs a little further up to the largest village in the area, Panagia, the birthplace of Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of Cyprus. The Monastery of Panagia Chrysorrogiatissa is situated near this village. The route continues towards Pafos, going through the villages of Asprogia, Kannaviou, Agios Dimitrianos, Psathi, Polemi, Kallepeia, Tsada and Mesogi.
Excursion 15:
Polis-Pyrgos
Route: Polis 30m, Gialia 30m (12km), Nea Dimmata 25m (14km), Pomos 35m (20km), Pachyammos 80m (24km), Pyrgos 20m (48km). Total distance: 48km Height gain: 130m
Difficulty rate: Easy and almost flat road with only one uphill past Kokkines. There are often strong onshore winds in the area, particularly in the afternoon. A street bike with at least 14 speeds is required.
Road condition: Good quality paved roads throughout.
Route description: This excursion, together with the routes from Pafos, links Pyrgos with Polis and Pafos. The route begins in Polis and travels along the coast in a northeasterly direction to Pachyammos. It then does a little detour, climbing up into the mountains in a southerly direction in order to by-pass the Turkish enclave of Kokkines, after which it goes downhill to pick up the coastal road again to Pyrgos.
Excursion 16:
Pafos-Pegeia-Polis
Route: Pafos 30m, Pegeia 200m (15km), Kathikas 610m (23km), Prodromi 25m (35km), Polis 30m (37km). Total distance: 37km Height gain: 615m
Difficulty rate: A rather tough route for the average cyclist but can be achieved with some effort and on a good bike (either a street bike or a mountain bike) with speeds.
Road condition: Good quality paved roads throughout.
Route description: This route goes from Pafos to Polis, the main town of the Chrysochou bay.
The route begins in Kato Pafos and goes along the coastal road in a northwesterly direction until the crossroads at Coral Bay, where it turns right. It then climbs to Pegeia, known for its fountain. The route continues climbing through the village, which offers a spectacular view of the west coast. It then enters the forest and travels northeast to the village of Kathikas from where it heads north to Prodromi and finally to Polis.
Excursion 17:
Pafos-Agios Georgios, Pegeia-Lara-Baths of Aphrodite
Route: Pafos 30m, Agios Georgios 25m (10km), Avakas 10m (12km), Lara 30m (17km), Fontana Amorosa 15m (31km), Baths of Aphrodite 20m (37km).
Total distance: 37km.
Difficulty rate: A route, which becomes very difficult on some up hills because of the uneven surface. A high-quality mountain bike is required with front fork suspension.
Road condition: A variety of surfaces consisting of both paved and dirt roads.
Route description: This excursion goes along the Akamas peninsula and the Avakas gorge.
This route begins at Kato Pafos and head northwest along the coastal road. At the crossroads between Coral Bay and Pegeia it goes straight to Agios Georgios. A little before the chapel of Agios Georgios on the right and south is a turning along a dirt road for the Akamas area. After about 2 km the route goes over a small bridge at the Avga or Avakas riverbed. From there signposts lead along a path to the right to the Avakas gorge. Going straight leads to Lara. Straight past Lara is a turning to the right to the chapel of Agios Kononas where there is drinking water. From Agios Kononas the route heads south to meet the road going over the Akamas ridge, it crosses the road from Smigies to the Akamas lighthouse and goes downhill to Fontana Amorosa. This road goes along the coast in a southeasterly direction to the Baths of Aphrodite and the beach with a CTO Tourist Pavilion.
LEFKOSIA ROUTES
Excursion 1:
Lefkosia-Machairas-Lythrodontas-Lefkosia
Route: Agios Mamas grade separated junction 210m, Deftera 275m (6km), Psimolofou 315m (10km), Episkopeio 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
Route description: Cyclists have the opportunity to visit the Machairas forest, the Machairas monastery, as well as the site where a local hero died in the struggle against British rule, Gregoris Afxentiou .
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. 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 and Strovolos. Strovolos avenue leads back to Lefkosia.
Excursion 2:
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.
Route 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.
Excursion 3:
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.
Route 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 that 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.
Excursion 4:
National Forest Park Athalassa
Difficulty rate: An easy route for all types of bicycle.
Road condition: Paved road throughout.
Route 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.
Excursion 5:
Lakatameia and Strovolos bicycle paths
Difficulty rate: An easy route for all types of bicycle
Road condition: Unpaved but smooth path.
Route description: The Lakatameia and Strovolos Municipalities have created an 8km long bicycle path along the banks of the Pediaios river, from Lakatameia all the way to the Presidential Palace.
LIMASSOL ROUTES
Excursion 1:
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.
Route 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.
Routes
Excursion 2:
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.
Route 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 a number of 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. Half way 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.
Excursion 3:
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
Route 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 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.
Excursion 4:
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 least21 speeds.
Road condition: A combination of paved and dirt roads. Route 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 theroutes of the Lefkosia district. The route heads north starting at the Germasogeia roundabout. It climbs through the village, 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.
LARNACA – AMOCHOSTOS ROUTES
Excursion 1:
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.
Route 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 afterwards turns right to the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque. Here there is a restaurant and a picnic site in the nearby wood.Going straight on leads to Meneou.
Excursion 2:
Rizoelia Forest
Difficulty rate: Easy to average route on unpaved roads. It requires
a mountain bike with 21 speeds. Front fork suspension recommended.
Road condition: Unpaved.
Route 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.
Excursion 3:
Voroklini hill
Difficulty rate: Various levels of difficulty. It requires a mountain bike
with at least 21 speeds and front fork suspension.
Road condition: Unpaved road.
Route 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.
Excursion 4:
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.
Route 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 round 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.
Excursion 5:
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.
Route description: This route links the route from Kofinou to Larnaka and vice versa, because Kofinou is often the start or end of a number of 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.
Excursion 6
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.
Route 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 ROUTES
Excursion 1:
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.
Route 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 km to the left it reaches the village Tsada. From Tsada it is downhill to Pafos along the Pafos-Polis road.
Excursion 2:
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.
Route description: This excursion is actually 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 off 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.
Excursion 3:
Polis-Neo Chorio-Akamas lighthouse
Route: Polis 30m, Latsi 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.
Route 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 Latsi and the Baths of Aphrodite. Shortly after Latsi 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 km from Smigies a turning to the right leads to Pyrgos tis Rigainas, while going straight for another 2 km leads to the road to Lara, Fontana Amorosa and the Baths of Aphrodite. Continuing along this road lead to the Akamas lighthouse.
Excursion 4:
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.
Route 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 km 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.
Excursion 5:
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.
Route 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.
TROODOS AREA
Excursion 1:
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.
Route 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.
After the Karvounas crossroads and the Platania picnic site, the route goes along a forest road (dirt road with a smooth surface) to Agios Nikolaos. From there the it goes along the paved road from Kakopetria to Prodromos, turns left and then climbs for one kilometre more until it reaches the dirt road on the left leading to Troodos. The dirt road has an uneven surface and climbs steeply in certain areas, which can be quite challenging. After almost 12 kilometers of steep uphill the route goes past the entrance to the quarry. It then reaches the Troodos – Prodromos road and turns left to return to Troodos square.
Excursion 2:
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 kilometers of steep uphills. A mountain bike with front fork suspension is necessary. Road condition: A variety of surfaces.
Route 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 km 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.
