Hiking in Northern Cyprus – The Besparmak Trail is Calling!
Experience Northern Cyprus on foot along the spectacular Besparmak Trail. The BBT is a 255 km long-distance hiking route that follows the impressive Pentadaktylos mountain range (also known as Beşparmak). This modern trail was opened in 2016 and takes you through unspoiled nature, small villages, pine forests, past castles and monasteries, and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Why Hike in Northern Cyprus?

• Authentic and original – far from mass tourism

• Varied landscapes – coastline, mountains, forests, and villages

• Mild climate – perfect for hiking almost year-round

• Cultural diversity – Orthodox, Muslim, and Maronite communities

• Warm hospitality – stay in family-run accommodations

The Besparmak Trail – An Adventure Stage by Stage
Whether you prefer single-day hikes or a multi-day trekking adventure, the Besparmak Trail offers flexibility and variety. From Cape Kormakitis in the west to Cape Apostolos Andreas in the far east, you’ll pass through some of the most fascinating regions of Northern Cyprus – always on well-marked paths.

Self-Guided Hiking Made Easy
With our support, you can enjoy a self-guided hike using the GPS app MHIKES (also available offline). We take care of transfers, luggage transport, and accommodations – you simply enjoy the trail at your own pace.

45-minute transfer

You will be starting the walk at the western side and heading east. This varied trail begins along the seashore and then climbs to the low western ridge of the Besparmak Mountains. Once you have climbed onto the range, you will be able to see the Troodos massif on one side and the Mediterranean Sea to the north. You will finish the walk in the Korucam village.

The hike ends at the accommodation

1 hour transfer

From a crusader castle to a village with an abbey dating back to the 12th century. This is a lovely day’s walk for its views and historical depth.

You start to climb up and reach a plateau. From time to time, you will enjoy superb views of Kyrenia town and the sea. During the second half of the walk, you start to climb up the ridge to Bellapais village. The abbey rises with all its magnificence. A rest under the ‘Tree of Idleness’ is well deserved.

The hike ends at the accommodation

45 minutes transfer

This day’s trail takes you into a forest where you will walk between wild strawberry trees, orchids (in the spring season), rockroses, pine trees and as you are mostly under the forest canopy, there will be some shade. Again, quite often you will be able to switch views and see the Mesaora plain to the south and the Mediterranean Sea to the north. At the end of this most pleasurable walk, you will arrive at a Byzantine church. Antiphonitis is the perfect place for a rest.

1 hour transfer

1 hour transfer

Another day’s walk lies ahead with another challenge, namely reaching the most important castle of the Besparmak trail: Kantara Castle. At this point you are now officially at the start of the Karpaz peninsula. On a clear day, you should be able to see the end of the trail in Cape Zafer. The track up to the castle is filled with an abundance of cyclamen plants during the winter months.

1 1/2 hour transfer

Glaro Garden, situated in the peaceful Rizokarpaso, offers guests easy access to beautiful beaches and a lush garden environment. Enjoy authentic local cuisine made from fresh ingredients, along with unique architecture that reflects traditional Cypriot style.

This hike starts directly at the accommodation.

Today's exhilarating hike leads you to the stunning northern coastline of the picturesque Karpaz Peninsula. As you journey along the scenic path, you will pass the beautiful Oasis Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sands, as well as the fascinating Ayfilon ancient settlement, rich in history and culture. You will also marvel at the millennia-old cultivated lands that showcase the region's agricultural heritage. Your adventure culminates at the remarkable ancient Christian site of Afendrika, where three churches have been lovingly renovated by the UNDP in recent years, allowing visitors to appreciate their historical significance and architectural beauty.

20 minutes transfer

20 minutes transfer

Today, the king's etap of the Besparmak Trail awaits you with excitement and adventure! After the transfer to yesterday's endpoint at Afendrika, you will continue your hiking journey along the stunning northern coastline. As you trek, you will be greeted by azure blue waters sparkling in the sunlight, majestic rocky coastlines that tell tales of nature's beauty, and flocks of sheep and goats peacefully grazing along the path. This picturesque scenery will accompany you every step of the way until you reach the very eastern point of Cyprus and the easternmost point of Europe, a truly remarkable destination that promises unforgettable memories.

45 minutes transfer