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Akamas
is the easternmost point of the three major flora zones of Europe,
therefore the number of plant species found here runs up to 600,
of which 35 are endemic. The variety of fauna is also impressive:
168 bird species, 12 mammals, 20 reptiles and butterfly species
of which the endemic Glaucopsyche Paphos butterfly is said to be
the symbol of the area. Akamas is situated at the westernmost point
of Cyprus. According to one version, the area took its name from
the Greek mythological hero Akamas, son of Theseus who came to Cyprus
after the Trojan War and founded Akamantis. Akamas was also the
place where Aphrodite and Adonis had their love trysts.It is an
area of incomparable natural beauty. Almost all the geological formations
found on the island are present in the area. Akamas is ideal for
walking, cycling, swimming, diving, fishing, exploring, cruising
on small craft, and bird watching.
1.
Aphrodite Trail
Starting point: Baths of Aphrodite. The
section between the Baths and Pyrgos fis Rigainas (the Castle of
Regina) is shared with the Adonis trail. The trail follows a rising
path to the hill known as Moutti tis Sotiras (370m) and this can
be quite tiring, especially in summer. There are springs with drinking
water at two points,one at Pyrgos tis Rigainas (the Castle of Regina)
and the other at Kefalovrisia.
Length: 7.5 kms Time: 3 hours
Points of interest: The baths of Aphrodite where,
according to tradition, the Goddess of Love used to bathe. Ruins
of the Castle of Regina, which are believed to have belonged to
a medieval monastery. It is worth mentioning the huge centuries-old
oak tree which can be seen at the picnic site, where drinking water
is also available. Along the trail there are several points which
give a view of Polis Chrysochous and the Paphos Forest.
2.
Adonis Trail
Starting point: Baths of Aphrodite. Like. Aphrodite Trail,
the walk can be quite tiring, Two springs of drinking water' can
be found at Pyrgos tis Rigainas and Kefalovrisia.
Length: 7.5 kms Time: 3 hours
Points of interest: From the western part there
is a view of various beaches of Akamas, such as Lara Bay, Tzioni,
Karavopetres, etc.
3.
Smigies Trail
Starting point: Smigies picnic site, 2.5 kms from Neo Chorio
Length: (a) short route 2.5 kms Time: (a) short
route 1 hour
Length: (b) long route 5 kms Time: (b) long route
2 hours
Points of interest: View to the east of Polis Chrysochous
Bay, Latsi, Pachyammos and Paphos Forest, and to the west Lara Bay,
Tzioni, Karavopetres, etc.
4.
Pissouromouttis Trail
Starting point: Smigies picnic site
Length: 3 kms Time: 1 1/2 hours.
Points of interest: Rich growth of Juniper Phoenicia,
pistacia, etc. Views of Polis Bay to the northeast and beaches of
Akamas to the west.
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