North Cyprus covers 3,355 square kilometres, including the most beautiful white sandy beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. The Kyrenia mountain backdrops are absolutely stunning especially the five fingers (Besparmark) range. As far east as the Karpaz, more commonly known as the Pan Handle and as far west as Guzelyurt, the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. North Cyprus boasts orchards of Olive, Almonds and Citrus fruits. Visitors fall in love with the warm weather and guaranteed sunshine for more than 300 days a year. The lifestyle in North Cyprus is very laidback and the crime rate is extremely low. The cost of living is far cheaper than our Mediterranean neighbours and this together with the other factors mentioned make North Cyprus one of the Mediterranean hotspots for property purchasing.
Thousands of years of history and culture are steeped in North Cyprus, as over the centuries it has been ruled by the Venetians, the Romans, Lusignans, Ancient Greeks, Egyptians, together with the Turks and of course the British. All that have come and gone have left their mark on the islands map including many ancient castles, monasteries and mosques. One of the most beautiful landmarks is Bellapais Abbey, situated just outside the town of Kyrenia (Girne). The view from Belapais has to be one of the most romantic sights on our Northern coastline making the Abbey a perfect destination for wedding ceremonies.
North Cyprus Kyrenia itself is over 6,000 years old dating back to the time of the Byzantines and centres itself around a magical Kyrenia harbour and Castle where you can either stroll around or indulge in some of the finest local cuisine and drinks. Whether you visit North Cyprus Kyrenia during day or night you can’t help but be mesmerized by the wonderful ambience.
There are three historical Castles in Northern Cyprus; St. Hilarion, Buffavento and Kantara. St Hilarion takes its name from a monk who had fled from persecution in the Holy land and was living in a cave on the mountain. St Hilarion was originally built as a watch tower to give warning of approaching Arab pirates in the 7th Century. Thousands of tourists every year climb to the highest point if only to have the feeling of being on top of the world. Take your camera and capture the views of the coastline below.
The once remote Karpaz or ‘the Pan Handle’ should be on everyone’s list of places to visit in North Cyprus. Over the last few years a fast new road network has brought this spectacular region within easy reach of a daily visit.
The North Cyprus beaches are endless blankets of white sand with very few tourists. Accommodation is plentiful and varied, from overnight hostel type to more comfortable beach huts and small family run hotels.