Atalanti

If you're looking for an exciting hike with stunning views and plenty of wildlife to observe, the Atalanti nature trail in Cyprus might be the perfect destination for you. This trail is located around Chionistra mountain at an altitude of 1,700-1,750 metres, and takes you through dense areas of black pine trees and Foetid Juniper. You'll also encounter some fascinating points of interest along the way. One of the highlights of the Atalanti nature trail is the Foetid Juniper, which is one of the largest trees in the area and is estimated to be around 800 years old. The trail also offers wonderful views of all areas of the island. As you hike along the trail, you'll come across the entrance tunnel of the chrome mine, which has been out of service since 1982, and is particularly interesting to explore. The first finishing point of the trail is nine kilometres along the Troodos-Prodromos road. To continue on the trail, you must cross the main road and walk on the forest road of Katoikies Chromiou towards Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis church for around 200m, where a wooden sign points your direction. The trail is approximately parallel to the main road and ends at Troodos Square, where you'll find the Environmental Information Centre of Troodos National Forest Park. A fountain with drinking water is located three kilometres from the starting point heading towards Troodos Square. The Atalanti nature trail is home to a variety of endemic plants that you can study as you hike, including Golden oak, Manouthkia, Urse mint, and Troodos Alison. You'll also encounter a wide range of fauna in the area, including mammals like Mouflon, Fox, hare, and hedgehog, and birds such as Bonelli’s eagle, Eurasian jay, Wood pigeon, partridge, Cyprus warbler, and Cyprus wheatear, both of which are endemic to the island. You may even spot a Cyprus viper or a Cyprus snake, which are both endemic reptiles in the area. If you're an avid hiker and nature enthusiast, the Atalanti nature trail is definitely worth a visit. With its stunning views, fascinating points of interest, and diverse flora and fauna, this trail promises to be an unforgettable experience for anyone who ventures to hike it.