Explore Cyprus in Winter: Hiking the Stunning Aphrodite Nature Trail

Wherever I go, I love to get out for a walk and enjoy the nature of the country I’m in. And that was no different on my visit to Cyprus. There are 74 official trails in Cyprus and we chose to do the Aphrodite Nature Trail early one Sunday Morning.

In between enjoying archaeological ruins, spending time at Sofia’s House, and relaxing at our hotel, we got out to enjoy the Aphrodite Nature Trail on the Akamas Peninsula. This beautiful 7.5km trail takes in views of the Cyprus coast, past the Baths of Aphrodite, and on some great trails past the beautiful flora and fauna of this Mediterranean country.

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If you want to get out and explore the countryside of Paphos, definitely put aside 3 to 4 hours to enjoy this hike – there’ll be views you won’t forget and they’re well worth the climb!

If you have the All Trails app, you can download or see the route here which has full details on the trail.

Highlights Of The Aphrodite Nature Trail

• The Baths of Aphrodite: This small natural grotto, located under the shade of a fig tree, is said to be where Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, came to bathe and also where she met her lover Adonis when he came to drink here while he was hunting.
• Views of The Blue Lagoon: A real gem of the Akamas Peninsula, the clear turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon shimmer along the coast. 50km from Paphos, a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon makes a great day out in Cyprus but you also get a great view from this walk too.
• The ruins of Pyrgos tis Rigainas: The remains of this Byzantine monastery are next to a centuries old oak tree where Aphrodite used the relax after her bath.

Amenities of the Aphrodite Nature Trail

• Refreshments including water and snacks at the small shop by the car park
• Free parking
• Restaurant 
• Toilets

Things To Know

• Take the clockwise route: This path takes you inland first meaning on the loop back, you’re heading downhill with great views of the sea.
• Where the correct clothing: Wear walking boots or trainers with good grip. The trail can be a bit skiddy with loose stones and there’s lots of rocks along the way.
• Take sunscreen: Even in the winter sun, the heat can be strong so take sunscreen to avoid any unnecessary sunburn.
• The trail isn’t suitable for prams or young children.
• Moderate to difficult: The Aphrodite Nature Trail is moderate to difficult, there are some steep parts and seasoned walkers may just find this walk moderate. Some of our group didn’t hike though and they managed it as we were going at a steady pace.

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A Morning On The Aphrodite Nature Trail in Paphos

The views on the Aphrodite Nature Trail start even before you get onto the path. This was from the viewing platform by the toilets and the Baths of Aphrodite Restaurant – what I wouldn’t have given to have a little dip in that blue sea! After taking in the views, we started off on our walk before the heat of the sun got too high.

Following in the steps of the goddess of Aphrodite, this nature trail’s first point of interest is the Baths of Aphrodite. You can see this magical spot on a few tours offered throughout Cyprus, but enjoying it as part of a self-guided walk means you will likely have this place all to yourself. This is the spot where the Goddess of Love and Beauty is said to have enjoyed her baths, and what a wonderful spot it is. 

It was from here we took the trail clockwise, leading us up rocky paths and through grassy meadow-like patches. A few stops were needed along the way to the top as it was a warm morning and there’s not much shade on the trail. There is however a lot of flora and fauna to enjoy. We spotted the Paphos Blue Butterfly, Mountain Goats, and plenty of blooming Cyclamen and Star of Bethlehem flowers.

The next point of interest was an 800 year old oak tree where Aphrodite was said to relax after her baths. This tree is beautiful and is located next to Pyrgos tis Rigainas or The Queen’s Tower, the ruins of a byzantine monastery hidden in the hills away from potential pirates. This area is a wonderfully shaded spot – perfect for a drink and snack before walking the stretch up to the view point.

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The main star of this hike is the Moutti tis Sotiras viewpoint. With vistas stretching out along the Cypriot coast and across to the Blue Lagoon, this viewpoint is well worth the walk. We spent at least 15 minutes here soaking up the views and enjoying the sun. And there are some great photo opportunities here – just be careful as you are high up!

Heading back to the trail, there is a bench with an equally gorgeous view so if you want somewhere more practical to sit and enjoy a refreshment, this is it!

Winding back down the path the the coast, you’ll be treated to more views as you snake down the trail, zig zagging back along the hill side. This is where we spotted mountain goats too – it did take me a while to see what everyone else was pointing out – so keep your eyes peeled.

There aren’t any major sites on the way back down so we just enjoyed the walk, good conversation, and the Cypriot sunshine. Then once we got back on a level with the sea, it was a short stroll back along the road to the car park where we started the walk.

I thoroughly enjoyed doing the Aphrodite Nature Trail walk. We were lucky enough to be guided by Panico from Cyfari, a tour guide group who offer personalised tours – if you really want to get into the detail of a place, I’d really recommend getting in touch with them.

Alternatively, enjoy the trail yourself and take time soaking in the views and enjoying the wonderful nature surrounding you on the path.

Read more: Paphos in 4 Days: The Ultimate Itinerary for First-Time Visitors to Cyprus

If you want to stretch you legs on your winter sun holiday in Cyprus, this is a great way to do it and enjoy the nature of Cyprus at the same time!