This excursion features full-day off-the-beaten-track exploration of the Northwestern Troodos mountains area, east /southeast of Polis/Latchi. The journey penetrates some of the most isolated forest locations and takes in the spectacular Tylleria coastline, where steep, semi-forested cliffs tumble precipitously into the blue sea. Including sites and landscapes seldom visited by ‘average tourists’, our itinerary takes you right along the UN-patrolled “Green Line” ( with very safe view-points into the Turkish-occupied lands) and allows you to experience the utter tranquility and awesome beauty that characterizes this unique, almost forgotten corner of Cyprus.
After passing through a series of small agricultural villages, we continue climbing into the pine forests with maximum elevations ranging between 1200m and 1400m. following our strict ‘Prime Directive’ this ‘deep-forest transfer’ will be at a relaxed pace and you will not be locked inside the vehicle for the duration, but will be given several stops for light trail-walking, spontaneous photo-shoots, or for just breathing in the clean, pine-scented air.
After a simple but hearty lunch in the forest, our descent towards the coastline is anything but mundane. Use of a newly improved road eliminates bumpy conditions and allows a surprisingly quick transition from deep-forest to civilization-by-the-sea. Here the steep, jagged Troodos coastline forms the backdrop for an unforgettable ride along the peaceful ‘Green Line’, where UN forces patrol the buffer zone between occupied and non-occupied lands. We stop at several view points to examine this spectacular landscape en route to Ayios Raphael Church, a major religious monument for the Greek Orthodox community. There is time to enjoy a short swim by the sea before excursion end.
Special interests: Forestry, geology, modern history, animals, photography, clean air, high altitudes, a sense of isolation.