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Athalassa National Forest Park: Nicosia's Green Escape

Discover Nicosia's Athalassa National Forest Park: A sprawling green oasis with trails, botanical gardens, and a visitor center, perfect for nature lovers and families seeking tranquility.

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Escape the urban sprawl of Nicosia at Athalassa National Forest Park, a sprawling 840-hectare oasis offering a diverse landscape of woodlands, shrublands, and wetlands. Established in 1990, this park provides a vital green lung for the capital city, inviting visitors to explore its numerous walking and cycling trails, totaling over 20 kilometers. Discover the park's rich biodiversity, with over 500 plant species, including native pine, carob, and olive trees, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Enjoy recreational facilities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports grounds, or delve into environmental education at the Visitor Centre, which showcases the park's natural features and local flora and fauna. Athalassa is a true community hub, hosting events, outdoor activities, and providing a serene escape for all.

A brief summary to Athalassa National Forest Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the Environmental Information Centre to learn about the park's ecosystem and local flora and fauna.
  • Explore the park's trails early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially during summer.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated picnic areas, surrounded by the park's natural beauty.
  • Take advantage of the park's cycling trails and rent a bike near the main entrances for a scenic ride.
  • Check the park's event calendar for community events, outdoor activities, and educational programs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Nicosia, take bus number 33, 43, 46 or 48 towards Aglantzia. Get off at the 'Λεωφ. Κηρυνείας - Πάρκο Αθαλάσσας 2' bus stop, which is located right at the park entrance on Kyrenias Avenue. The bus ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. A single bus fare costs approximately €1.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from central Nicosia to Athalassa National Forest Park takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for the ride. Request your driver to take you to the main entrance on Kyrenias Avenue for easiest access.

  • Driving

    From central Nicosia, head southeast on Griva Digeni Avenue. Continue onto Kyrenias Avenue. Follow Kyrenias Avenue for approximately 5km. The park entrance will be on your right. There is free parking available at the park entrance.

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Discover more about Athalassa National Forest Park

Athalassa National Forest Park, nestled on the southeastern edge of Nicosia, is a sprawling sanctuary that offers a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Covering an impressive 840 hectares, this verdant oasis is more than just a park; it's a vital green lung for Cyprus's capital, providing a diverse landscape of woodland, shrubland, and wetland ecosystems. Officially designated as a National Forest Park in 1990, Athalassa's history stretches back to medieval times when the area was used for agriculture and hunting. Today, it stands as a testament to ecological preservation and community engagement, offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and educational experiences. The park's landscape is a tapestry of diverse flora, with over 500 plant species identified, including native pine, carob, olive, and eucalyptus trees. This rich biodiversity makes Athalassa a haven for birdwatchers, botanists, and nature enthusiasts alike. Keep an eye out for the numerous bird species that call the park home, or explore the mini-botanical garden near the Visitor Centre to discover indigenous plants. Athalassa National Forest Park caters to a wide range of interests and activities. With over 20 kilometers of well-maintained trails, it's a popular destination for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. The trails wind through shaded eucalyptus groves, open meadows, and along the tranquil lake, offering scenic views and a chance to connect with nature. A dedicated 16-kilometer cycling loop provides an ideal route for both amateur and serious cyclists. Families will find plenty to enjoy at Athalassa, with large children's playgrounds, picnic tables, and barbecue spots located near the Aglantzia and IKEA entrances. The park also welcomes dog walkers, with designated areas and convenient facilities for pet owners. For those seeking a deeper understanding of the park's ecological significance, the Environmental Information Centre is a must-visit. Managed by the Department of Forests, this center features life-sized dioramas of local habitats, a scale model of the park, a mini-theatre for environmental films, and interactive learning experiences for school groups. Geological samples, fossils, and visual materials showcase the local fauna and flora, providing valuable insights into the region's natural history. Athalassa National Forest Park is more than just a recreational space; it's a hub for community events, outdoor yoga sessions, environmental campaigns, and charity marathons. Local schools often organize educational visits, and community groups host clean-ups and conservation days, fostering a sense of stewardship and environmental awareness. The park's strategic location and accessibility make it an essential part of urban life in Nicosia. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a place to exercise, or an opportunity to learn about the environment, Athalassa offers something for everyone. Imagine yourself strolling along a shaded trail, the scent of pine and eucalyptus filling the air. The sun filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the path ahead. Birds sing their melodies, and the gentle breeze rustles the leaves. As you reach the lake, you spot a family of ducks gliding across the water, their reflections shimmering in the sunlight. This is Athalassa National Forest Park, a sanctuary where nature and community thrive. But the experience doesn't end there. Athalassa is a place where you can challenge yourself physically, whether it's by running along the trails, cycling through the park, or playing a game of tennis or basketball. It's a place where you can connect with others, whether it's by joining a community event, volunteering for a conservation project, or simply sharing a picnic with friends and family. And it's a place where you can learn and grow, whether it's by visiting the Environmental Information Centre, exploring the botanical garden, or simply observing the natural world around you. Athalassa National Forest Park is a testament to the power of green spaces to enhance urban life. It's a place where nature, community, and education come together to create a truly special experience. So, escape the city and discover the serenity of Athalassa – a green escape that will rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Whether you are a local resident or a tourist visiting Nicosia, Athalassa National Forest Park is a destination that should not be missed. It's a place where you can reconnect with nature, engage with the community, and create lasting memories. So, pack your walking shoes, grab your camera, and head to Athalassa – a green escape that awaits your discovery.

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