If you’re planning a walking holiday in Cyprus, or simply fancy a bit of sunshine and some great hikes, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Paphos. There are some great hikes and nature trails to explore within easy distance of the heart of Paphos. I recently visited Paphos out of season to experience the island of Cyprus during “winter” and it was a fantastic trip. The weather was amazing even in February and it was the perfect temperature for getting outdoors and active, from running along the seafront to hiking during sunny afternoons. Travelling out-of-season to Cyprus provided the opportunity to experience a different side to the island, one where the milder temperatures made an active holiday full of walks and hikes around Paphos a great escape.
The best hikes and walking trails near Paphos, Cyprus, include the Aphrodite Nature Trail, the Avakas Gorge Nature Trail, the Adonis Nature Trail, Smigies Nature Trail and Pissouromoutti Nature Trail.
Best Hikes & Walking Trails near Paphos, Cyprus
Aphrodite Nature Trail
My favourite hike near Paphos, Cyprus, is by far the Aphrodite Natural Trail which follows a beautiful 7.5km loop through the Akamas Forest Nature Trail. Walk in the footsteps of the Goddess of Love and Beauty as you follow the trail past the Baths of Aphrodite (Loutra tis Afroditis) and along the coastline’s historic trail. Visit this area at the end of February/start of March and you may even see the national flower, the cyclamen, growing on the cliffs overlooking the panoramic ocean views.
- 7.5km trail
- The trail takes 3 hours to complete
- Considered a hard hike
- 370m of elevation gain
- FREE HIKE
If you’re taking on the hike, why not combine it with the Adonis Nature Trail or visit the Botanical Gardens of Akamas at the trail’s starting point. You should also look out for the Pyrgos tis Rigainas (Queen’s Tower) which is believed to be part of a Medieval monastery. For those not wanting to hike alone – why not join a day trip with a guide on the Akamas Panoramic Walk?
Top tip: visit the Baths of Aphrodite restaurant after your hike for a well deserved seafood mezze – it was the best I tried on the island!
Avakas Gorge Nature Trail
If you’re looking for an adventure while exploring Paphos, you’ll find one in the Avakas Gorge Nature Trail. Hidden away in the Pegeia state forest and following the path of the Avgas River, the gorge has also received the prestigious title of a Natura 2000 area. Just a short 1.2km trail, this hike is an easy one to squeeze in and gives you the opportunity to spot some Cypriot flora and fauna including the foxes, hares, the Stellion lizard and the elusive tree frog. The shady gorge and towering cliffs make a cool escape from sunny Paphos while visiting Cyprus.
- 1.2km trail
- 45 minutes to complete the trail
- Easy / Average difficulty
- FREE HIKE
If you haven’t hired a car, you can reach Avakas Gorge from Paphos by bus using line 615 from Kato Paphos Station to Coral Bay, where you can transfer to the 616 bus for 13 stops to Agiou Georgiou Ave. It is then a 40 minute walk to the start of the hike. It’s a great way to extend the hike and enjoy an easy stroll. Or, why not take a Half Day Jeep Tour of the Akamas Peninsula and visit the sea caves, Adonis Waterfalls, Lara Turtle Bay and Avakas Gorge.
Adonis Nature Trail
Combining a rich Cypriot history with incredible landscapes and nature, the Adonis Nature Trail is a hike you won’t want to miss. If you’re an avid hiker, you might even look to combine it with the Aphrodite Nature Trail for an even more challenging walking trail with views aplenty. Expect to see breathtaking views of Polis Chrysochous, ruins of a Medievan monastery, a 500-year-old oak tree, Pafos Forest and stunning views of the Akamas Peninsula along the trail.
- 7.5km trail
- 3-4 hours of hiking
- 319m of elevation
- Considered a hard hike
- FREE HIKE
The trail starts at the Baths of Aphrodite – the same starting point as the Aphrodite Nature Trail. It’s an absolute must when visiting Paphos and exploring Cyprus’ best hikes.
Smigies Nature Trail
Prepare yourself for gorgeous coastal views on the Smigies Nature Trail, and a route that comes with two options, so it’s perfect for all abilities. The walking trails take you past the famous Lara Bay and Pafos Forest, plus lots of other popular spots. If you take the longer 6km route along the Smigies Nature Trail, you’ll hike for around 1-2 hours and wander past abandoned kilns and the remnants of old mines. While the shorter 2.5km trail is an easy 1 hour stroll.
- Short Trail – 2.5km – 1 hour – EASY
- Long Trail – 6km – 1-2 hours – MEDIUM
- FREE HIKES
You can find the starting point of the hike close to the beginning of the Pissouromoutti Nature Trail.
Pissouromoutti Nature Trail
The scent of wild thyme on the warm breeze while waves roll on to the beach in the distance. The Pissouromoutti Nature Trail offers jaw-dropping views across beaches and bays including Tzioni, Geranissos, Lara, and Agios Georgios Pegeias and Chrysochou Bay along the south coast. Breathe in the cooling scent of the pine forest and spot the wildflowers along the walking trail.
- 3km trail
- 1.5-2 hours long
- Medium difficulty
- FREE HIKE
What do I need to take hiking in Paphos, Cyprus?
If you’re taking on a hike or walking trail when visit Paphos, make sure you are prepared. Most of the trails will have little nearby, not even a shop. If you’re lucky, you might find a restaurant near the beginning or end of the trail, so it’s best to go prepared.
- Pack lots of water – even if the weather feels cool, you will soon warm up when hiking uphill
- Take your suncream and remember to reapply! It’s warmer than you think.
- Use sturdy outdoor shoes or trainers that are extra grippy for outdoor surfaces and offer great support even on the toughest trails.
- It’s worth keeping a warm layer in your bag, and even a waterproof layer for cooler or wet days.
