General Information
General Information
North Cyprus is at the eastern end of the Mediterranean, and so has a wonderful climate, being far away from the Gulf Stream. Autumn, winter and spring are wonderful, with the lowest sea temperature exceeding the maximum ever reached in the UK!
This end of the Mediterranean is steeped in history. Romans, Phoenicians, Byzantines, Greeks, Venetians, saints, apostles, wars, invasions, Arab coastal raiders: it all happened here. Richard the Lionheart dropped by on his way to the Crusades, and captured the island 'in a fit of rage', and built four wonderful castles: the mighty bastion of Kyrenia Castle, overlooking the picturesque old harbour and Kantara, Buffavento and St Hilarion Castles, which are all perched on the summits of the Besparmark/Kyrenia Mountain Range. There are relics, ruins, and historical sites everywhere, so many, in fact that they are often neglected and unmarked, just for you to discover yourself!
The most conspicuous feature of North Cyprus is the magnificent mountain range, parallel with the coast, east to west. This stunning range, rising to nearly 3000 ft, is covered with miles and miles of tracks and trails and is the main area for all our activities. The range, rising up from the sea, catches all the incoming weather, with the winter rains keeping the whole of the northern escarpment green and lush. Much of this area is forested with scented pine woods and is famous for its wild flowers and orchids in the spring, and the profusion of birdlife.
The whole northern coast has to be the most beautiful area in Cyprus, and probably the whole of the Mediterranean. The population is only 250.000, so you can walk/cycle/ride all day and see no one, just the odd mountain goat or wild donkey, sharing with you the stunning views and enjoying the peace and tranquillity.
North Cyprus is still the hidden secret of the Mediterranean, unspoilt, friendly and hospitable.
Location
Our 5 villas are in Alsancak, 5 miles west of the old harbour of Kyrenia, situated between the main coast road and the sea. They are very conveniently placed for beach, bars, restaurants and shops, and public transport: all is within walking distance.
