Why should I visit Northern Cyprus?:
“Northern Cyprus - sophisticated, charming and a place where tourism exists, but doesn't yet dominate its unique landscape”. BBC Holiday.
One of the last unspoiled corners of the Mediterranean, Northern Cyprus offers not only spectacular countryside, miles of deserted beaches but also a traditional warm welcome. Unlike many other areas of the Mediterranean, Northern Cyprus is most definitely the ‘best kept secret’ of the Mediterranean.
The country is scenically stunning ranging from the sand dunes of the Karpaz ‘Pan Handle’ to the impressive Kyrenia mountain range. The weather is outstanding with over 300 day’s sunshine a year, a sea temperature that hardly ever drops below 16°C and Spring arriving in February, a good antidote to the British winter! The people are incredibly friendly, and due to the legacies of the British colonial era, English is widely spoken, even in the remotest areas. They even drive on the left!!
How do I get there and how long will it take?:
You can fly to Cyprus via Larnaca in South Cyprus or North Cyprus's Ercan airport.
Flying to North Cyprus: Cyprus Turkish Airlines, Turkish Airlines. EasyJet now fly from the UK's Luton Airport to Istanbul's Sabiha Gökçen Airport on the Asian side of the Bosphorus. Pegasus Airlines operates a daily shuttle from this Istanbul airport to Ercan in Northern Cyprus. Thomas Cook are also offering flights, through Cyprus Turkish Airlines, direct to Ercan.
The following tour operators sometimes offer good flight only details:
Cyprus Paradise
Green Island Holidays
Flying to South Cyprus: BA, Monarch Airlines (Air2000), aJet (Formerly, Helios Airways), Olympic Airlines, Cyprus Airways, Thomas Cook, First Choice and Easyjet (from Manchester to Paphos - March 2008)
Airport transfers: Please inform us of your requirements at your earliest convenience and the owners will make all necessary arrangements.
Ercan (approx. 45 min drive)
Larnaca/Paphos (approx 1.5 - 2 hour drive)
I like it...tell me some more about the area:
Situated on the north coast of Cyprus, Kyrenia - with its 6,000 year long history, unique remains of countless civilisations, miles of natural beaches, calm sea and mild climate - is an idyllic Mediterranean town. Bounded to the north by the sea and to the south by the greenery of the Besparmak (Fivefinger) Mountain Range, it offers the most magnificent scenery on the island. Its charming and tiny harbour, full of yachts and fishing boats is framed by the colossal hulk of its Crusader castle. With the backdrop of the jagged mountains behind the calm sparkling sea in front, the harbour has an intoxicating serene atmosphere. Kyrenia is an easy place to while away any time of the day - exploring the shops, markets and local cafes in late morning, strolling in the narrow cobbled alleys behind the harbour in the afternoon, or stepping for a brisk walk along the promenade and sea wall in the evening. With a virtually crime free environment, it is the perfect location to relax and unwind.
Golf:
Golf lovers will be delighted to learn that North Cyprus is just about to open its first golf course. The Esentepe golf course is not just the first 18 hole golf course in North Cyprus, but a truly international course designed to the highest standards.
The course covers some 6600 yards with elegant greens, tricky sand bunkers and water hazards, set amongst olive trees and with the natural beauty of the Northern Cyprus Kyrenia Mountains as a stunning backdrop. You can also practice your swing at the 30 bay driving range, or brush up of your skills with the help of a qualified instructor at the golf academy.
Golf 'widows' will be as equally delighted knowing just five minutes drive away in Karsiyaka, a brand new five star health resort and spa has only just opened, offering a wide range of treatments and exclusive five star dining. For a true pampering session, its a must!
Golf 'orphans' will be overjoyed when they hear about the excellent water slides at the Acapulco Beach Hotel and Riverside Holiday complex. As a non-resident, you pay a small fee per person and the facilities are yours. Happy days!!
Other Activities:
Spa complex
