Overview: 

Discover Northern Cyprus – an archaeologist’s dream. The region is dotted with relics of ancient civilisations, from the walled city of Famagusta and ruined city of Salamis, to gothic castles which have inspired fairy tales, all of which you’ll discover on this leisurely tour. As you explore the region’s most impressive sights, admire the natural beauty of Cyprus’ unspoilt landscapes, idyllic golden beaches, and rugged mountains fringed by azure waters. When you’re not uncovering the island’s rich heritage on included excursions, you can choose from a variety of optional excursions, or simply unwind at your peaceful hotel, located in a quiet village near the bustling harbour town of Kyrenia.

Day 1: UK-Larnaca-Kyrenia, Cyprus

Fly to Larnaca on Cyprus’ southern coast, and transfer by road to the north region of the island.

Stay seven nights at the locally rated 4-star Olive Tree Hotel, located in a peaceful village close to the harbour town of Kyrenia. Look forward to a dinner and welcome drink reception where you can mingle with your fellow travellers. D

Day 2: Kyrenia

Enjoy a day at leisure, perhaps making the most of the hotel’s many amenities.

Alternatively, you could join an optional excursion to the west coast of the island. B, D

Day 3: Nicosia

Today, visit the only divided capital in the world since the Berlin Wall was demolished in 1989.

The city of Nicosia is a buzzing hub of old and new which you’ll discover on a guided tour of the north side. Visit the Selimye Mosque, housed within the grand Gothic cathedral of St Sophia, and the Arab Ahmet Mosque, an example of classical Ottoman architecture. You’ll also take in the Dervish Pasha Mansion and the Büyük Han (Great Inn) caravansarai – the island’s largest roadside inn which today is filled with cafes and craft workshops. Lunch is included at a local restaurant, and the remainder of the the day is free to spend at leisure. B, L, D

Day 4: Kyrenia and Bellapais

After breakfast, enjoy an excursion to explore two of Cyprus’ great historical sites.

The first, St Hilarion, the best preserved of the Crusader castles, sits some 2,000ft above sea level, dramatically perched atop a rocky crag. The castle is rumoured to have provided inspiration for Walt Disney when he created the animated film Snow White. Drink in the incredible panoramic views from the top stretching across the entire northern coastline – on a clear day, you can see as far as the Taurus Mountains 100-kilometres away in Turkey.

Continue to the beautiful village of Bellapais, located in the Kyrenia mountain range. The sleepy village found fame after being immortalised by Lawrence Durrell, who chronicled his life here in the 1950s in the book 'Bitter Lemons of Cyprus'. The jewel of Bellapais is undoubtedly the 800-year-old Gothic-style abbey, built in the 12th century by monks fleeing Palestine after the fall of Jerusalem. Take a stroll through the exquisite ruins, and perhaps spend a few moments under the ‘Tree of Idleness’. B, L, D

Day 5: Kyrenia

Today is free to spend at leisure, or you could perhaps join an optional excursion to the unspoilt Karpas Peninsula. B, D

Day 6: Famagusta

Spend the day exploring the region surrounding Famagusta on Cyprus’ eastern coast.

First, visit the Monastery of St Barnabas, dedicated to the patron saint of Cyprus, and now a museum showcasing Cypriot artefacts dating back as far as the 7th-century. Continue to the remains of the ancient city of Salamis. Once the capital of Cyprus, Salamis survived the successive occupations of the Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians and Romans before several earthquakes and a tidal wave led to the city’s destruction. Roam amongst the ruins, including the marble columns, ancient baths and Roman theatre.

Finally, arrive in Famagusta where you’ll have free time to explore. Founded by the Egyptians, Famagusta has a more Levantine flavour than the rest of northern Cyprus, and the old walled city offers a fascinating window into the past. Wander the streets lined with charming shops selling local produce, jewellery, and pottery, before returning to your hotel for dinner. B, L, D

Day 7: Kyrenia

Spend your final day at leisure, or tour southern Cyprus on an optional excursion to Lefkara. B, D

Day 8: Kyrenia-Larnaca-UK

Depart your hotel after breakfast, and transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. B