Cyprus's Hidden Havens: 5 Routes to Discover by Car

1. Karpaz Peninsula: Adventure Beyond the End of the Road

Stretching from eastern to northeastern Cyprus, the Karpaz Peninsula is one of the island's most natural and peaceful areas.

As you approach, signs of city life give way to long shores, open landscapes and small villages. Golden Beach in particular stands out for its clear water and natural setting.

One of the best parts of Karpaz is the journey itself. Setting out from Kyrenia or Famagusta, you pass small villages, historic buildings and Mediterranean views along the way.

A must-see stop is Apostolos Andreas Monastery, near the easternmost tip of the peninsula: an impressive destination at the end of a long journey.

Why go by car?

Karpaz's sights are spread far apart. Having your own car lets you stop wherever you like and explore its beaches and villages.

2. Kormacit and Its Surroundings: Cyprus's Quiet Villages

Kormacit (Kormakitis), in northwestern Cyprus, is one of the island's lesser-known corners.

Preserving its traditional village character, the area offers a different experience for travellers seeking peace. Narrow streets, stone houses and Mediterranean scenery create an atmosphere far removed from the city centres.

Follow the roads around Kormacit to reach small settlements and coastal spots. The quiet and views are particularly striking early or late in the day.

Take your time when visiting. Instead of rushing from one stop to another, park somewhere suitable and explore the village on foot.

A small suggestion: the scenery becomes even more impressive around sunset.

3. Beşparmak Mountains: From Coast to Mountains in a Few Hours

Rising just behind Cyprus's northern coast, the Beşparmak Mountains are one of the island's most distinctive natural formations.

On the mountain roads, you can see the Mediterranean on one side and Cyprus's broad interior on the other. Routes starting around Kyrenia take you to completely different scenery within a short drive.

Alongside well-known sights such as Bellapais Abbey and St. Hilarion Castle, the mountains offer quieter viewpoints and village roads.

Take care when driving in the mountains. Some roads are narrow and winding. Consider weather and visibility, particularly in the evening.

Why go by car?

Many viewpoints in the Beşparmak Mountains are outside the main transport routes. A car lets you choose your own route and stop at places that interest you.

4. Dipkarpaz: A Day Close to Nature

Further along Karpaz, Dipkarpaz offers a closer look at Cyprus's natural life.

The area stands out for its long shores, natural spaces and peaceful atmosphere. You will find small businesses and a more natural environment rather than large tourist resorts.

Stopping along the road is part of the experience of visiting Dipkarpaz. Think of it as a journey in its own right, rather than simply a destination.

You may also encounter Karpaz's famous wild donkeys. Take care when approaching or feeding them and respect their natural habitat.

Best time: early morning, when roads are quieter and you can explore nature in greater peace.

5. Sadrazamköy and the West Coast: A Lesser-Known Side of Cyprus

Heading west from Kyrenia brings you to one of Cyprus's quieter, more natural regions.

Sadrazamköy and nearby shores are a lovely alternative for escaping crowded beaches. Drive alongside Mediterranean views and stop where appropriate to explore the coastline.

One of the area's best qualities is how the atmosphere changes as you leave the tourist centres. In a short time, you can move from Kyrenia's busy city life to a much calmer Cyprus landscape.

For photography enthusiasts, sunset offers particularly beautiful scenes.

The Most Flexible Way to Explore Cyprus: Renting a Car

Public transport or taxis may be enough to see Cyprus's tourist centres. But your own car offers a significant advantage when you want to explore less familiar regions.

With a car, you can:

Choose your own route. Stop wherever you like. Reach secluded bays and villages. Visit several regions in a day. Travel without relying on public transport timetables.

Renting a car makes travel much more flexible, especially in areas such as Karpaz, the Beşparmak Mountains and Cyprus's west coast.

Cyprus's beauty is not limited to central Kyrenia or popular beaches. Sometimes the finest view waits at the end of a village road that looks tiny on the map.

On your next trip to Cyprus, broaden your route, get in your car and discover the island's lesser-known side.