Cape Greco is a natural park, which is often called the main pearl of Cyprus. In fact, it is a corner of pristine nature, protected by the state. At the same time, the cape can boast of a developed infrastructure that fits perfectly into the environment and does not disturb its harmony.
General information
Cavo Greco is a picturesque cape located in the southeast of Cyprus between the resort towns of Ayia Napa and Protaras (60 km from Larnaca airport). Its outermost point belongs to the Sougl peninsula, from which an isthmus leads to the cape. Now there is a British military base here, so access to the peninsula is prohibited for outsiders. On the opposite side of the park there is a lighthouse.
The area of the natural park is almost 400 hectares. In 1993, it received the status of a national park, and then was included in the EU program “Natura 2000”. The cape is famous for its beautiful rocky coastline, turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea and many interesting objects. Today, Cavo Greco is included in the list of the most picturesque natural attractions of Cyprus. It is very popular among fans of ecotourism and active sports. All conditions for snorkeling, diving and underwater hunting have been created here.
Birdwatchers will also enjoy the cape – flocks of birds rest here when flying across the sea. The beautiful nature of the cape and the inviting sunsets also attract photographers. This is where you can get great photo sessions.
What to see and do?
There are many interesting things to see at Cape Greco. We will describe only the main attractions.
Blue Lagoon
Blue Lagoon (Cyprus) is a unique protected area near the resort of Ayia Napa, which includes a series of wild beaches. There are no entertainments here – you can swim, sunbathe and enjoy the pristine nature. The water in the lagoon has a piercing blue hue. Swimming in it is a pleasure. Specially built steps lead to the sea.
Divers appreciate this place for its interesting bottom relief, diverse underwater landscape and numerous caves. If you are not prepared, wander between the half-flooded grottoes – this is also interesting. You can get to the Blue Lagoon during sea tours from Protaras and Ayia Napa. The ships also stop for swimming.
Natural Bridge Arch Korakas
The Korakas Arch is another famous tourist attraction located in the southeast of Cape Greco. This natural formation, created by the elements, is considered the best natural bridge in Cyprus. The arch is not reinforced in any way, and recently has been actively exposed to the destructive influence of the sea and wind. Its walls have become thinner – they can collapse at any moment.
Church of the Holy Unmercenaries Cosmas and Damian
Agios Anargyroi or the Church of the Holy Unmercenaries is a small chapel built on the edge of a rocky cliff in honor of Damian and Cosmas. These are two doctor brothers who lived in Cyprus in the 3rd-4th centuries and treated everyone in need for free. The building is made in the Greek style – a beautiful semicircular roof, white and blue facades. The area around the church is shrouded in an atmosphere of romance, and wedding photo shoots are often held against the backdrop of blue crystal clear water. And there is also a fountain with drinking water near the entrance to the church. They say it is healing, because in the distant past there was a hydrogen sulphide spring here.
Tree of love or wishes
Lone tree – a tall tree, which is a great rarity for Cavo Greco. There used to be a lot of them, but in the first half of the 20th century almost all the trees were cut down for industrial purposes. Only the Lone tree survived. Later, local authorities made several attempts to replant the park, but the seedlings died due to strong winds and soil characteristics.
Now the tree of love welcomes tourists who come to the cape from Ayia Napa and other places in Cyprus. In the shade of its huge crown there are a couple of benches for those who are tired from the journey. One of the legends says that if you make a wish and tie a ribbon on a branch of a juniper tree, it will definitely come
Caves of Cape Greco
Sea caves, also called sea castles, are scattered all over the cape and are one of the most visited places in the park of Cavo Greco. The main ones are four – Sharks, Cyclops, Pirates and Captains. Each of them has a staircase leading directly to the water. There, at the bottom, you can find small rocky beaches.
The caves have a bizarre shape and are washed by transparent waters of amazing shades. They are accessible only from the sea. During low tide, you can walk through some of the grottoes. Local guides tell tourists mysterious stories about pirate treasures hidden here.
Hiking trails
There are walking trails on the territory of Cape Greco, which pass by the most interesting tourist sites. There is a sign next to each of the trails.
- The longest route connects the sea caves with the chapel. It is 4 km long and can be walked in 4-5 hours. The path runs along the sea and covers almost all the local attractions.
- Another option is a circular one. This route starts at Konnos Beach, includes a visit to the Cyclops Cave and returns to the starting point. Length – 2.5 km. The road in one direction runs along the coastline (you can swim), in the other – along the hill (you can enjoy the most beautiful panorama).
- Another popular route is called “Agioi Anargyroi”. It starts from the Visitor Center of Cape Greco. Then the trail passes by the bridge of Kamara tou Koraka and the church of Agios Anargyroi, behind which there is a special area for picnics. You can buy water and food at the kiosk near the administration center.
- And, of course, the “Path of Aphrodite”. It passes through the place where the temple of the same name used to stand. The structure has not survived – the only reminder of it is the pedestal installed in our days. This route is short – only 2 km. During its passage you will visit the Blue Lagoon, the bridge and the Arch of Ravens.
How to get to the cape from Ayia Napa and Protaras?
Getting to Cape Greco in Cyprus is easiest for those tourists who are vacationing in Protaras or Ayia Napa. From them to the natural park is only 10 km. This distance can be covered by private car or public transport:
- From Protaras. By car, drive towards the sea along the E306 highway, which will soon change to the E307 and F314. Bus 102 also goes to the stop of the same name;
- From Ayia Napa. By private transport follow the Kavo Greco highway, then turn onto the E307, which turns into the F314. Bus route 101 runs.
The interval between departures is 20 minutes. You need to go to the stop located right in the center of the park. It is next to the administrative building – from there, walking routes lead to the main attractions. Stops are also made on request. The cost of a ticket during the day is 1.5 €, after nine in the evening the price of travel increases to 2.5 €.
There are parking lots for cars near the Blue Lagoon, the visitor center, the picnic area, the Church of the Holy Unmercenaries and the ascent to the Kavos observation deck. Bicycles and quad bikes are also available for rent. Daily rentals cost €5-10 and €25-45, respectively.
Cape Greco is a truly unique place where you can relax from the hustle and bustle of the city, recharge your batteries and enjoy contact with nature.
