Cycling
With perfect weather conditions, varied and challenging terrain and beautiful scenery, it is no wonder that Pafos is a firm favourite for leisurely and competitive cycling – all year -round. Enthusiasts love the island’s rugged character, which can go from rocky to clay, and steep to flat, all within the space of 10km. And whilst you will enjoy the feel of the balmy Mediterranean breeze through your hair, unlike other destinations, the island’s wonderful climate lacks strong headwinds; the ideal setting for exploration by bike! Whether venturing out on your own adventure, or following one of the myriad of routes, the roads ahead unfold across scenic urban, rural, mountainous and coastal terrain, with plenty to discover along the way.
You will find all manner of sights whilst on two wheels; streams, forests, quaint villages, the natural, the cultural and the historical, and it is easy to end up somewhere delightfully unexpected.
Whether you are looking for a winter training camp, classic road cycling holiday, a self-guided tour, an adrenalin fuelled road or mountain biking holiday, getting off road on your gravel bike, a leisure cycling holiday or a fun packed family cycling holiday then look no further. Pafos offers the cycling trip suitable for all.
Road Cycling
Pafos region is a magnificent destination for cycling with a wonderful climate all year round.
Fantastic road bike tours suitable for all levels from beginners to sportive / Gran fondo riders looking for longer miles.
Custom Tours for families, friends, clubs, corporates, Camps, schools and Charity Cycling are also available for all cycling levels, budgets and dates.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking in Cyprus is thrilling and unique. Cyprus has a wide variety of mountain or off road bike trails, with the Akamas peninsular and Troodos Mountains as the focal points. Limitless tracks and trails are available, beautiful mountains, pine forests, spectacular views and perfect weather.
The naturally fast flowing, yet bumpy surfaces offer a variety of cross-country biking trails to explore with as many technical thrills as you want. The 79 sq km Akamas peninsula area is a perfect location for off-road cyclists of all abilities to test their fitness and technical skills.
Also popular is the Troodos mountain range, although the terrain there can be more challenging owing to the steeper gradients and rockier surface.
Winter rains and snow can also make riding in the cooler months nigh on impossible, whereas the Akamas peninsula and Paphos forest areas are ride able all year round.
Varied Biking Terrain in Cyprus
So what terrain can you expect to find when mountain biking in Pafos ? Most of the old donkey trails are now wide gravel tracks but you can still find some exhilarating trails including:
-Gorgeous gorge ride in Cyprus
-Spectacular gorges with loose rock and steep descents.
-Technical rocky goat tracks to challenge any biker’s technical abilities.
-Short but tricky single track on sections of the many nature trails in the region.
Rough rugged gravel pistes that change according to the season – in summer expect dry, loose and dusty conditions requiring extra special bike handling skills; in winter, the compacted, rain-washed tracks are far more rideable at speed.
Gravel
Gravel riding is an increasingly popular form of cycling that combines elements of road- and mountain-biking, and consisting mostly of distance riding over unpaved roads. Whether dirt roads or gravel roads, trails must consist of non-technical and unsurfaced roads to qualify as gravel riding. Since cities mostly have paved roads for commuters, gravel riding trails are usually located in rural areas. This tends to afford opportunity to discover some incredibly scenic sites that one can only witness during an adventure off the beaten path.
Pafos Cycling Routes
Route 1: Panorama and Beautiful countryside
Pafos,Pegeia,Kathikas, Arodes, Droushia, Kathikas, Stroumpi, Polemi, Tsada, Pafos
Challenging level, 64 km
Technical description
The whole route is on a very good asphalt road.. After Pegeia to Kathika village, the route is mainly uphill but without great slopes at its longest.
The circular path formed from Kathika to Droushia and return to Kathika is a relatively flat route with small uphill and downhill.
From Kathika to Tsada there are continuously small uphill and downhill, while from Tsada to Paphos the route is continuously downhill.
- Distance: 77km
- Pavement condition: Asphalt road
- Total altitude difference: + 1260m
- Bicycle type: Road bike with 20 speeds
Short description
The route begins over the Coral Bay area , one of the most beautiful coastal areas of Pafos. Very close to the starting point you will find the well known sea caves. Great views of the crystal sea. Nice place for photo taking, one of the most mesmerizing sunsets all year round
Immediately after climbing to Kathika you will pass through the dense pine forest before entering the vineyards of the area where the wonderful wine of Laona region is made.
The scenic small passages above the Akamas peninsula is always welcoming and worthy to stop for a drink and taste local dishes. The route is like a panorama of the Akamas area and the northern side of the Paphos province. The last downhill to the bay “Potima” gives a wonderful picture that will make you soon want to go back to the area
On the return especially during the months of February until May, when nature is adorned with the colors and perfumes of the spring, the journey is wonderful and no cyclist should miss the opportunity
Route 2: Diarizos Valley, Unspoilt villages and Great scenery
Pafos-Achelia-Ag. Varvara -Timi- Αnarita-Nikoklia-Diarizos Valley-Ag. Nicolaos-Arsos-Dora-Kouklia-Pafos
Moderate to Challenging level of difficulty. Distance 105 km
Technical description
The whole route is on a very good asphalt road. From Pafos till Timi the route is relatively flat. After the village of AgiosGeorgios till the village of Arsos the route is mainly uphill with some downhill.
On return after Dora village, the route is downhill and in several places the road is narrow with some steep turns. It needs extra attention
- Distance: 105km
- Pavement condition: Asphalt road
- Total altitude difference: + 1560m
- Bicycle type: Road bike with 20 speeds
Short description
The route starts by the Medieval Castle of k. Pafos and the Unesco archaeological park.
With in a few kilometres you will soon be cycling in one of the most beautiful areas of Cyprus alongside the Diorizos River. The path to the valley will take your breath away. Especially during the months of February until May, when nature is adorned with the colors and perfumes of the spring, the journey is wonderful and no cyclist should miss the opportunity to ride it.
The Diarizos valley is rich in citrus plantations, which you can taste if you cycle in the area during autumn or even winter months.
Also in the Diarizos Valley you will pass between the two unique tall Rocks called “Hasamboulia”
The valley across the river offers great scenery, fruitful trees and small villages, small churches and ruins of villages from the old times.
Route 3: Beautiful nature, Vineyards and Olive Groves
Pafos-Achelia, Ag. Varbara, Panayia, Statos-AyiosFotios-Choulou-Letymbou-Tsada-Pafos
Challenging level, 80 km
Technical description
The whole route is on a good to very good asphalt road. After the Villages of Acheleia towards Panagia the route is mainly uphill with some downhill, rated challenging in terms of difficulty.
On the return after the Village of AgiosFotios-Statos, the route is downhill and in several places the road is narrow with some steep turns. It needs extra attention.
- Distance: 80km
- Pavement condition: Asphalt road
- Total altitude difference: + 1760m
- Bicycle type: Road bike with 20 speeds
Short description
The route begins by the Medieval Castle in K. Pafos and the Unesco archaeological park.
On your way you will pass from small, quiet village in the Cypriot countryside, through vineyards and olive groves.
Soon you will find yourself at the edge of the Troodos mountain range, heading towards the Paphos forest and the historical community of Panagia.
Before you reach the highest point of the route you will be able to enjoy the magnificent view of the Euzousa valley and the Xeros river. Particularly during the months of February until May, when nature is adorned with the colors and perfumes of the spring, the journey is wonderful and no cyclist should miss the opportunity.
Route 4: Birth Place of Aphrodite- Goddess of Love and Beauty
Pafos-Achelia- Ag. Varvara-Timi-Anarita- Birth Place of Aphrodite -Pafos
Easy to moderate level of difficulty. Distance 64 klm
Technical Description
The whole route is on a very good asphalt road. In the first and last 7 km the ride can also be enjoyed on a bicycle path.
After the Acheleia village and till you reach “Petra touRomiou” area the route is mainly flat with short uphill which is rated easy to moderate in terms of difficulty.
- Distance: 64km
- Road condition: Asphalt road
- Total altitude difference: + 620m
- Bicycle type: Road bike and trekking bike with 18 speeds
Short description
This route takes you to the place where Aphrodite- Goddess of Love and Beauty was born. Passing between small villages along the route you will have the chance to get to know the locals and the way of life in the Cypriot countryside.
Beyond the birthplace place of Aphrodite, you can visit the Archaeological site of Palaipaphos in Kouklia village just a few kilometres away. The ruins of a temple dedicated to Venus are also found on the site.
Along the way, you can find traditional cafes and taverns to enjoy a drink as well as a Cypriot sweet to retrieve your strength and continue your cycling tour back to Pafos.
Route 5: Polis – Neo Chorio – Fontana Amorosa – Polis (Route of medium difficulty by mountain bike)
The route is aimed at cyclists with little or no experience in mountain bike, and also for visitors who would like to enjoy some sport activities during their vacations.
The route is of medium difficulty with spectacular views of the Akamas forest and the Mediterranean Sea.
During the route, cyclists can make some stops for rest and photography.
Technical description
The longest part of the route is on dirt roads without much technical difficulty except for some points between the 16th and 20th km where cyclists must be careful on the downhills.
At the beginning after Latsi up to Neo Chorio village the slope of the road is big in some places which makes it quite difficult for cyclists. After the Neo Chorio village the route is very friendly.
Distance: 36.5 km
Road condition: Dirt roads route except at the beginning and at the end where the route has asphalt surface.
Total altitude difference: + 590m
Bicycle type: Mountainbike with good suspension
Short Description
One of the most interesting routes of the area!
Starting with a difficult uphill to the Neo Chorio Village, you will soon reach the heart of the Akama forest and to an altitude of over 400m. The view and the beauty of the landscape often invites you to get off the bike to enjoy this uniqueness. Once you reach the top and before you start descending, you will soon realize that in front of you lies the most beautiful blue sea you have ever seen.
Fontana Amorosa beach is world famous for its crystal clear waters which in combination with the golden sand give a wonderful spectacle and a delightful feeling!
Leaving Fontana Amorosa, the route is magnificent since on the one side is the sea and on the other the green mountains and the rich vegetation that spreads along the cost.
Points of interest
– Neo Chorio Village
– Sea views
– Fontana Amorosa
– Baths of Aphrodite
Useful suggestions
– Have enough water and some snacks with you
– Most part of the route is non-shady, protect yourself from the sun
– Always have your mobile phone with you in case of emergency, after the Neo Chorio Village you are in nature without much movement from other people
– At Fontana Amorosa beach you can swim, so take a swimsuit and a bicycle lock with you!
Parking facilities
Polis Chrysochous
Smigies area- Picnic site
Neo Chorio village
Fontana Amorosa
Aphrodite Baths
Route 6: Pegeia - Akamas - Fontana Amorosa - Polis (Medium to high difficulty route)
The Route is described as difficult and is aimed for experienced cyclists. Due to its difficulty, cyclists must be well prepared since there are no providers for water or food throughout the route.
Technical description
The longest part of the route is on dirt roads without much technical difficulty except in some points between the 34th and 38th km where cyclists must be careful on downhills.
Distance: 53.6 km
Road condition: Dirt route while at the beginning and at the end it is on asphalt roads
- Total altitude difference: + 720m
- Bicycle type: Mountainbike with good suspension
Brief description
Starting from Coral Bay you will soon find yourself in the Akamas National Forest Park known for its unique beauty.
Along the way you will enjoy cycling by the seaside and the sea caves area, while a photo of the shipwreck EDRO III is a must.
The route to Akamas offers the opportunity to cycle near wildlife, visit the gorge of Avakas and enjoy cycling both on the mountain and over the wild beaches with wonderful sea views.
At Lara beach (when is hatching season) you will be able to see the unique spectacle of life offered by the turtles that come out on the beach to give birth to their young.
The route slowly ascends to the highest point passing near the “Pyrgos tis Rigenas” before descending to one of the most beautiful locations of Akamas peninsular, the beach of Fontana Amorosa.
Fontana Amorosa beach is world famous for its crystal clear waters that in combination with the golden sand give a wonderful spectacle and a delightful feeling!
Based on the Myth associated with Aphrodite here the goddess met her lovers away from the crowd.
Leaving Fontana Amorosa, the route is enchanting since on the one hand is the sea and on the other the green mountains and the rich vegetation that spreads along the coast.
Points of interest
– Sea caves in Pegeia
– Avakas Gorge
– Lara Beach, Turtles
– Fontana Amorosa
– Baths of Aphrodite
Useful suggestions
– Have enough water and some snacks with you
– Most part of the route is non-shady, protect yourself from the sun
– Always have your mobile phone with you in case of emergency, after the beach of Lara you are in nature without much movement from other people
– At Fontana Amorosa beach you can swim, so take a swimsuit and a bicycle lock with you!
Parking facilities
– Polis Chrysochous
– Smigies area-Picnic site
– New Chorio village
– Fontana Amorosa
– Aphrodite Baths
Route 7: Polis - Argaka - Pomos - Gialia - Polis (Low difficulty route)
The route as described in the title is suitable for cycling for inexperienced cyclists but not for families with children under 9 years of age. The reason this route is not suitable for families with children is because there are parts of the route with high traffic.
Great option for visitors who would like to enjoy sports activities during their holidays.
The route is relatively easy, and cyclists can make various stops for rest, photo taking or even visiting various nearby places of interest.
Technical description
Very good asphalt road. In some places cyclist can use the designated bike path.
- Distance: 42.6 km
- Road condition: Asphalt road
- Total altitude difference: + 300m
- Bicycle type: Road bike or trekking bike with 27 speeds
Brief description
A very attractive route for the whole family with children over 9 years old as it does not require very good physical condition while offering quite a few choices for relaxation in restaurants or cafes by the sea.
This coastal route offers the opportunity for a family expedition and familiarisation with some of the most beautiful landscapes and villages in the area.
The route crosses several beautiful villages such as Gialia and Pomos Villages, while there is also an opportunity for a refreshing drink or snack in one of the restaurants or beach cafes.
Points of interest
– Beauty of the landscape
– Village squares
– Restaurants and cafes by the sea
Useful suggestions
– Have enough water and some snacks with you
– Most part of the route is in non-shady places, protect yourself from the sun
– Always have your mobile phone with you in case of emergency
– Along the way back you may choose to swim, so take with you a swimsuit and a bicycle lock
Parking facilities
– Polis Chrysochous
– Argaka village (village and coastal)
– Pomos village (village and coastal)
– Gialia village (village and coastal)
– Agia Marina Village
Route 8: Polis - Pomos - Stavros tis Psokas - Polis (Difficult route for experienced cyclists)
Route with a high difficulty index for experienced cyclists as it offers several uphill, difficult downhill and long distances.
Technical description
Asphalt road with a very good surface
– Distance: 91.9 km
– Road condition: Asphalt road
– Total altitude difference: + 1840m
– Bicycle type: Road bike with at least 20 speeds.
Brief description
If you have chosen this route, you must be a qualified cyclist.
It is a demanding route, both due to the altitude change and the length. The duration of the ascent to the “Stavros tis Psokas” forest station is long and seems endless but the calm that one feels in the Pafos Forest makes you not wanting the road to end.
Beautiful landscapes, wonderful views combined with the very good road make the route pleasant despite its great difficulty.
During the uphill you can stop in several places to enjoy the spectacular views of the coastline.
Most likely along the way in the Pafos Forest you will meet a small herd of Cypriot Mouflons (wild goats) crossing your path. Stay calm and be fast enough to take a picture.
At the “Stavros tis Psokas” forest station you can stop at the only one small snack-cafe for a short break before you start for the final part of your route.
Points of interest
– View over the Kokkina area to the Sea
– Stavros tis Psokas
– Pafos Forest
Useful suggestions
– Have enough water and some snacks with you
– Saving effort for the long uphill that starts at the 24th km.
– Always have your mobile phone with you in case of emergency
Parking facilities
– Polis Chrysochous
– Stavros tis Psoka forest station
– Gialia Village
Route 9: Pegeia - Kathikas - Droushia - Medium Strait as a route of high difficulty)
Route with medium to high difficulty index for experienced cyclists as it has several uphill, difficult downhill and long distances. For cyclists with less experience, the route can be a challenge.
Technical description
Asphalt road with a good surface.
- Distance: 35.2km
- Road condition: Asphalt road
- Total altitude difference: + 770m
- Bicycle type: Road bike with at least 20 speeds
Short Description
This is a unique route that crosses the area of Laona villages, where some of the best wines of the region are produced. Along the way you can visit several wineries and enjoy a wine tasting experience.
Initially, the route before ascending to Pegeia passes through the well-known Sea Caves while the ascent to Pegeia gives the opportunity to enjoy the view of the entire coastline from Akamas peninsula to Pafos town.
At Kathikas village, it is worth passing through the narrow picturesque streets of the community before enjoying a refreshing drink in the village square next to the beautiful church of PanagiaEvangelistria.
From Kathikas village to Drousia village the route is unique since the view to the Mediterranean Sea merges with the green of Akamas forest. Also in several places you can enjoy the sea view from both sides of the mountain.
From Drousia village within a short time from an altitude of 650 meters through a short road you will reach the coastline of Polis Chrysochous where you can enjoy a swim in this wonderful area known for its crystal clear waters.
Points of interest
– Sea Caves
– Kathikas village square
– View points before Kathikas village
– Views from Inia Village of the Akamas Peninsula.
Useful suggestions
– Have enough water and some snacks with you
– Always have your mobile phone with you in case of emergency
– You can enjoy a wine tasting experience at some of the Leona’s area wineries. (always in moderation)
Feel Free to Contact us
Address: 7, Athinon & Alexandrou Papagou Avenue,
Tolmi Court 101
P.O. Box 60082, 8100 Pafos, Cyprus
Email: info@visitpafos.org.cy
Tel: +357 26811500
Fax: +357 26811501