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Kyrenia Mountains: A Coastal Range of History and Beauty

Explore the Kyrenia Mountains: a stunning Cyprus range with castles, trails, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean coast.

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The Kyrenia Mountains, also known as the Beşparmak Mountains (Five Finger Mountains), are a striking, narrow mountain range stretching over 170 km along the northern coast of Cyprus. Rising sharply from the Mesaoria plain, they offer dramatic Mediterranean views and a rich tapestry of history, biodiversity, and outdoor activities.

A brief summary to Kyrenia Mountains

  • 873V+3XP, Beylerbeyi, CY

Local tips

  • Visit during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and vibrant wildflowers.
  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, especially if planning a longer trek.
  • Explore the historic castles of St. Hilarion, Buffavento, and Kantara for panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's past.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Kyrenia Mountains via public transport, start at the main bus station in Kyrenia. Look for buses heading towards Beylerbeyi; they are usually marked clearly. Board one of these buses; the journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Ask the driver to let you know when you reach Beylerbeyi. From there, walk towards the mountain area; the entrance to the Kyrenia Mountains is approximately a 15-minute walk from the bus stop. Keep an eye out for the location address 873V+3XP. Bus fares from Kyrenia to Karaagaç are approximately 20-30 TRY. Local trips within Kyrenia cost approximately 2.50 TL - 5 TL.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Kyrenia. A taxi ride from Kyrenia city center to the Kyrenia Mountains will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Expect to pay around 250-350 TRY for a one-way trip. Taxis in Kyrenia are generally safe and well-regulated, with most drivers offering a friendly and helpful service to both locals and tourists.

  • Walking

    From Beylerbeyi village, the entrance to Kyrenia Mountains is approximately a 15-minute walk from the bus stop. Keep an eye out for the location address 873V+3XP.

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Discover more about Kyrenia Mountains

The Kyrenia Mountains, or Beşparmak Mountains, dominate the northern Cyprus landscape, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This rugged range, stretching 170 kilometers, is composed primarily of hard crystalline limestone and marble, formed over millions of years by the collision of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. The highest peak, Mount Selvili, reaches 1,024 meters, providing panoramic vistas. The mountains have been inhabited since ancient times, serving as strategic locations for watchtowers and castles. The Byzantines and Lusignans constructed fortifications like St. Hilarion, Buffavento, and Kantara, which played crucial roles in defending Cyprus during the Middle Ages. Today, these castles are popular tourist attractions, offering a glimpse into the island's past and stunning coastal views. The Kyrenia Mountains are also rich in biodiversity. The lower slopes feature maquis shrubland, with evergreen oaks, carob trees, and junipers. Higher up, pine forests, dominated by Calabrian pine, thrive. The area is home to endemic plant species, including the Cyprus tulip. Hiking enthusiasts can explore numerous trails, including the Besparmak Mountain Trail, offering diverse levels of difficulty and stunning scenery. Legends also permeate the range, particularly concerning the "five fingers" peak. One story tells of a villager who, to win a queen's hand, was tasked with bringing water from a distant monastery. Another legend suggests the mountain's shape is the handprint of a mythical hero. Today, a large flag of Northern Cyprus is painted on the southern slope of the mountains.

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