Karpaz Peninsula

This is a remote region of Northern Cyprus, the most easterly part of the island, which is best visited with a car rental vehicle. A place of outstanding natural beauty it so far remains unspoilt and there are relatively few hotels and tourist attractions compared to the rest of the island. It is totally unlike other parts of the country, but tourists are beginning to catch on to the beauty of this isolated region, so visit now while you can enjoy it at its best.

The keyword is to relax and take your time. You will feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist regions. Stop and admire the scenery, maybe take your North Cyprus car hire vehicle and grab a picnic overlooking the sea. Or find a restaurant that sells freshly caught fish and just while away the afternoon chatting, eating and admiring the beauty that surrounds you.

As you drive through the region take the time to visit some of the quaint churches which are scattered around the countryside such as the Monastery of Apostolos Andreas, right on the tip of the peninsula, where St Andrew, the brother of John the Baptist is said to have visited. This simple yet stunning church is a site of pilgrimage where miracles are reported to have taken place. As well as the history and architecture of the church, enjoy the stunning scenery that surrounds it, of the wild Karpaz Peninsula.

There are many beaches along the peninsula where you can swim or snorkel.  One of the most beautiful is Golden Beach, a crescent shaped beach with golden sand as far as the eye can see.

If you enjoy nature you will not be disappointed in the Karpaz Peninsula. If you visit during the migration seasons, there are hundreds of species of birds making their way between Eastern Europe and Africa. The peninsula is also a breeding ground for endangered species of turtles, but please take care not to disturb them

Once you have taken in the nature and feel ready to go back to civilisation, visit Bogaz, a charming village with a fishing harbour where you can find the most amazing fresh fish and mezes.

Some words of advice – it is definitely worth planning a trip to this stunning region of Northern Cyprus, but due to the lack of tourist facilities, plan your trip in advance. If you are planning to visit overnight then pre-book a hotel to make sure you are not disappointed. And fill up your car hire vehicle before you go – there are some petrol stations, but it is better to be safe than sorry!