Cycling in Cyprus travel guide

Day breaks over Cyprus and road cyclists are already saddled up for Troodos Mountain cols and cooler temps away from the flatter, sandier stretches around the coast. Mountain bikers head to Paphos for forest floors or opt for the mule paths interconnecting the Besparmak and Kyrenia mountains. A steep ascent to the top of Mt Olympus promises legendary views; whereas the ridge running along the wonderfully wild and unkempt Akamas Peninsula encourages off road antics overlooking Lara Beach and the Baths of Aphrodite.
Expand Mediterranean horizons on free flowing pine forest trails, deserted tarmac roads and gnarly gravel MTB tracks – ideal for those who like to mix things up on and off road.
Cycling in spring or autumn is certainly best advice although, in summer, if you don’t mind an early start followed by a swim and a little lie down after a meze lunch; who are we to judge? Cyprus suits cyclists seeking seclusion with bike hire, maps, pre-programmed GPS routes, luggage transfers between B&B’s, and emergency support, all included on a tailor made holiday.

GO ON A CYPRUS CYCLING HOLIDAY IF…

... self guided cycling is your thing. Our Cyprus cycling holidays include route guides and GPS units as well as mountain bike hire or electric bikes, in some cases. … you're not planning on pedalling too far. Cyprus has a real variety of trails many of which switch between off road and tarmac. Daily distances are up to you but 30-50km is usually the norm. … you prefer cycling outside of summer. Cyprus can get very hot in July and August. It's still possible to cycle in the summer although early starts are required to avoid overheating. … breakfast is your most important meal of the day. Cypriot yoghurt, nuts and honey followed by freshly grilled halloumi, sesame bread, tomatoes, cucumber, olives and good strong coffee.

Don't go on a cycling holiday if...

… you only like tyres on tarmac. Several of our cycling routes, especially around the Akamas Peninsula, will take you off road via some rough and rugged coastal tracks or up and over ridges. … you’re up for Agia Napa. We think cycling to Latchi harbour for a cool bottle of Keo or a glass of dry white at the Vasilikon winery is much more rewarding than the clubs and bars of southeast Cyprus. … you want to be part of a peloton. These are not competitive trips. Racing to the finishing line is not only out of keeping with the Mediterranean vibe, it’s also unpleasant in the Cypriot weather. Take your time, and make the most of the scenery, food and culture.

Our top trip

Cycling in the Troodos mountains, Cyprus

Cycling in the Troodos mountains, Cyprus

Self-guided cycling & cultural holiday in Troodos

From €810 7 days ex flights
Tailor made:
This trip can be tailor made throughout the year to suit your requirements

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Responsible Travel, Travel Team

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BEST TIME TO GO CYCLING IN CYPRUS

Cycle either side of summer in Cyprus or stick to shaded forest trails, early starts, and cooler temps around the top of the Troodos, especially the summit of Mt Olympus.
Spring is the best time to go on a cycling holiday in Cyprus, when the Akamas Peninsula succumbs to scents of wild rosemary and almond blossom carried in on sea breezes. Although you might experience sunshine and showers, the sight of the countryside in full bloom really takes your breath away. Sea temps are starting to rise and in May-Jun it would be rude not to take a dip. It's too hot in Jul-Aug for cycling although an early start will counteract the heat. Sept, Oct, and early Nov are still warm especially around the coast, and are lovely for cycling.

Cyprus Weather Chart

 
MIN °C
MAX °C
RAIN (mm)
JAN
8
16
105
FEB
8
16
70
MAR
10
17
50
APR
12
22
35
MAY
15
24
15
JUN
19
29
0
JUL
21
30
0
AUG
21
30
0
SEP
20
29
0
OCT
16
25
35
NOV
12
21
55
DEC
10
17
110

WHEN TO CYCLE IN CYPRUS & WHEN NOT TO

January and February are still slightly wet in Cyprus. If you can withstand cooler evenings and panniers packed for all eventualities you’ll be treated to almond trees in full bloom, citrus groves buoyant with fruit and intermittent bursts of brilliant sunshine. By March and April, temperatures are starting to rise. Spring is peak cycling season and you'll discover roadsides fringed with wild flowers and herbs, perfect for perfumed picnics. May and June in Cyprus are starting to really heat up so take care if cycling in the midday sunshine. The sea will also be getting warmer so consider cycling to the coast for a dip followed by lunch before disappearing for a mid-afternoon siesta. If you're interested in a nocturnal excursion during May, June and July, this is nesting season for green and loggerhead turtles on the beaches of northern Cyprus. Baby turtles then hatch and scamper to the sea around 50 days later. This is an amazing spectacle and only to be observed in the company of experts who have the turtles’ best interests at heart. Summers in Cyprus – July and August - are frying pan hot but if you're up for a mega early start you'll find empty roads and deserted trails accompanied by the dawn chorus. Be aware that coastal roads will also get a lot busier during the summer which can be frustrating when added to the extra heat. September and October can still be a little hot but head into the Troodos Mountains or onto a shaded trail through Pathos Forest and you won't go far wrong. Although November and December might well feature the odd downpour, the end of the year in Cyprus is still a good time for cycling. Evenings will get cooler as the sun sets just after 4pm. Roads are really quiet in the winter which is why the pros head to Cyprus to kick start their training. For more information on the best time to visit Cyprus check out our Cyprus guide.
Written by Chris Owen
Photo credits: [Page banner: Wheelie Cyprus] [Is cycling in Cyprus for you: Wheelie Cyprus] [Best time to go: Evgeniy Isaev]