Cape Greko
Cape Greko is a stunning area located on the southeastern tip of Cyprus. It is a national park with numerous trails, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking natural attractions. Visitors can explore the park's many nature trails, which are lined with pine trees and filled with diverse flora and fauna. The European Long Distance Trail E4 runs through the park, providing a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area on foot.
This area also offers specially made cycling paths throughout the park. With low annual rainfall and light winds, Cyprus has the ideal climate for cycling all year round. The park's thirty-foot-high limestone cliffs have been hewn by Mother Nature and are a sight to behold. Taking a boat trip along the coast allows visitors to see the cliffs up close, and the striking caves within them, aptly named the 'Palaces.'
Cape Greko has warm sea temperatures ranging from 16°C to 28°C and visibility reaching up to 40 meters, making it an excellent spot for divers. The area is home to many caves along the coastline, with some extending as deep as 240 feet into the rock. During calm seas and low tide, visitors can swim and even walk into most of these caves. The Palace and Smugglers caves are deep passages in the cliffs accessible only from the sea, and boat trips regularly pass by daily. Adventurous visitors can even engage in the extreme sport of cliff diving or jumping in spots of deep water amongst the rocks.
Love Bridge is another natural wonder at Cape Greko. It is a rocky arch bridge with one edge stretching into the crystal-clear turquoise and emerald sea from an elevated coastal plateau. The bridge has formed naturally as a result of natural processes, without human intervention. It is believed that if you kiss while standing in the middle of the bridge arch and make a wish, it will surely come true. Vacationers also come here simply to admire the beautiful sea view and take pictures. The romantic atmosphere of the bridge is especially charming at sunset.
The small chapel of Agioi Anargyroi is one of the few buildings in Cape Greko National Park. Below the small white chapel is a hermit’s cave mentioned in local legend. The chapel is built on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea and the turquoise waters of Cape Greko. The chapel is dedicated to the twin brothers and Saints Cosmas and Damianos, who were both doctors and miraculously healed the sick without receiving any payment. The chapel is also adjacent to the Cape Greko National Park and is a popular spot for wedding photos.
Another popular attraction within Cape Greko National Park is the Kamara tou Koraka, which translates to "The Arch of Korakas". This natural arch is situated on the northeast coast of the park and is considered to be the most impressive natural bridge in Cyprus. It spans 50 feet in height and 23 feet in width and can be accessed via a small road leading into the cape.
The Kamara tou Koraka is a rare example of nature's beauty, having been sculpted over thousands of years by the forces of the sea and wind. The arch is located about a kilometer away from the chapel and cave of St. Anargyroi, and it offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding coastline.
Other popular trails within the park include the European Long Distance Trail E4, which runs from Cyprus to Gibraltar, and the trail that leads to the Cyclops cave.
Cape Greko is also home to the Konnos beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus. The beach is sheltered from strong winds and offers visitors a relaxing place to spend the day, with its fine golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and sun beds and water sports on offer.
Overall, Cape Greko National Park is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing beach getaway, this park has it all. Its diverse flora and fauna, stunning sea views, and rich cultural history make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cyprus. So why not add Cape Greko to your travel bucket list and experience its natural beauty and charm for yourself?