Feature - Cape Greco in Cyprus

Description:

Cape Greco is a rocky area located between the tourist resorts of Ayia Napa and Protaras on the south east coast of Cyprus and is very popular with walkers, cyclists and divers.

 
The area of Cape Greco has been declared a National Forest Park and conservation area spanning across 385 hectares of unspoilt natural beauty.

 
The cliffs in the area have spectacular views of the sea and the sea caves that lie underneath.

 
Walking along the rocks, various nature trails can be followed and benches are found at various points along the way to rest and catch ones breath. During the summer months, ensure you take plenty of water and avoid walking at the hottest time of the day.

 
Be sure to visit the small white church, Ayioi Anargyri, on the rocks with steps leading down to the sea where it is believed the 'holy water' exists. This is also a popular dive point area of Cape Greko.

 
Flora, perennials, tuberous and bulbs are scattered around the area and all the year round plantation of some kind can be found here with their sweet smelling aromas. There are even areas of shrubs that have been labelled with a brief explanation providing a little education into the plant world of Cyprus.

 
Cycle tracks run through the area and are popular with both tourists and locals exploring Cape Greco, especially in the winter when the weather is perfect due to the low annual rainfall. There are a few tavernas and bars where many stop for a snack along the way.

 
For the keen diver, the area has some very interesting dive sites along the coast. Sea temperatures range from 16 ºC in the winter to around 28 ºC in the summer.

 
The Canyon Diving Site located south of Cape Greco under the cliffs requires AOW (Advanced Open Water) diving qualification.
The unusual rock formations are interesting and the area has an array of beautiful varieties of sea life. The average depth is 15 metres and the crystal blue waters provide an average visibility of 45 metres.

 
The Ayioi Anargyroi Diving Site can be found at the bottom of the steps from the little white church mentioned earlier. OW (Open Water) qualification is required and the depth ranges from 10 to 25 metres. Visibility averages around 35 metres and many different small, colourful fish can be seen here. Night dives provide the opportunity to see the octopuses.

 
The Caves Diving Site is located at Cape Greco, 10 minutes drive from the tourist area of Protaras, and requires OW qualification. It is a very popular dive site to explore the tunnels, caves, blowholes and overhangs. The average depth is 12 metres.

 
It is worth mentioning that according to legend, the seas off Cape Greco is home to the Ayia Napa sea monster!

 
A boat trip can also be taken to see the Cape Greco cliffs and caves from the sea. Many boat trips stop at areas around Cape Greco for their passengers to have a swim or snorkel and have a bite to eat.
 

Each year on the first day of the Greek Orthodox Lent, known as Green Monday, many people head up to the Cape Greco area and have picnics and barbecues to celebrate the festival. The roads are lined with families and friends gathering around tables packed with food. Kites can be seen flying high in the sky and music is played throughout the day.

 
Whether exploring on foot, bike or by sea, Cape Greco encompasses natural beauty, fauna and flora, and spectacular views from the sea caves to the sea and is well worth a visit!
 
 
 

Check out Guide2Cyprus for Property in Cyprus, Events, News, Classifieds, Places to Stay, Local Attractions & Business Listings