Kerinia – “Bitter Lemon”

Kerinia – “Bitter Lemon”

At the first stop, you will visit the magnificent Saint Hilarion Castle, which was built on the mountain peak as early as the 8th century. From here, an impressive panorama opens up that transports you back in time.

Afterwards, the tour continues to Bellapais Abbey – a unique example of Cypriot Gothic architecture brought to the island by Frankish knights. This is the first Catholic monastery in Cyprus, founded by the Order of Saint Augustine in the early 13th century. From here, there is a magnificent view of the city of Kyrenia and the northern coast of Cyprus. You can have lunch at a nearby restaurant and then continue your journey towards Kyrenia – a city with white houses, a medieval fortress, and a picturesque horseshoe-shaped harbor that is reminiscent of coastal towns in the south of France.

Here, you will visit the Kyrenia Fortress, which was built in the 7th century to protect against Arab attacks. Inside, you will find the Church of Saint George as well as the Shipwreck Museum, where the hull of a merchant ship from the 4th century BC and the remains of its cargo are exhibited. It is believed to be the oldest merchant ship ever discovered.

To conclude, you will have some free time to stroll through the picturesque harbor, grab a bite to eat, or enjoy a cup of coffee before heading back.