This is not an intensive lecture tour, but our excellent English guide knows and loves the island, its history, flora and fauna, and will bring it to life for you as you stroll through the sites together.
This interesting tour will show you many of the fascinating castles and ancient sites to be found on the island of North Cyprus. At the crossroads of three continents, NORTH CYPRUS is bursting with intriguing antiquity, splendid cultural history and in spring, amazingly rich flora. Wherever you travel you will see influences of the great civilisations, from Neolithic to the Egyptian, Persian, Roman, Ottoman and British Empires, all in an enchanting setting of beautiful bays and beaches, some of which are home to turtles, spectacular mountains topped with ancient castles and idyllic scenery.
A visit will be made to St Hilarion Castle on the Kyrenia Mountain range. This was originally a monastery and later fortified by the Byzantines. It formed the sea defence of the island with the castles of Buffavento and Kantara against Arab pirates.
Most of the castles on this fascinating tour are fairly easily accessible except for the optional tour to BUFFAVENTO CASTLE. Perched high on a mountainside, this incredible castle is not to be missed. There is a lovely 4 mile panoramic drive along a forest road and then up a winding mountain path with spectacular views. There are some uneven steps, but even if you don't go all the way to the top there is spectacular scenery all round.
For those travelling in autumn there is warm sea swimming and in spring lovely wild flowers.
You will be met at the airport and visited at your hotel by our Representative. She knows and loves the island and will ensure you have an enjoyable holiday.
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
St Hilarion Castle, Bellapais Abbey, Kyrenia Castle, Famagusta, Salamis, Buffavento Castle, St Barnabas Monastery, Alevkayasi, Karpas Peninsula, Apostolos Andreas Monastery, Nicosia, Kantara Castle.
