Issue 081 - February 2022

History Forgot The Life-Saving Service That Birthed The U.S. Coast Guard: James Charlet is Changing That

By Erik J. Wallace

James Charlet and his wife, Linda Molloy, stand in the center of the Sanderling Resort Lifesaving Station Restaurant on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, addressing a crowd of 40 diners. The two are dressed as characters from the late-19th century. Charlet sports a big salt-and-pepper beard and the gold-buttoned, navy-blue dress uniform of a U.S. Life-Saving Service station keeper. Molloy plays his wife, wearing gloves, a long black skirt, white collared blouse and matching sunhat—all tastefully adorned with Victorian frills.

“Go to any town or city in America and ask people if they’ve heard of the U.S. Life-Saving Service (USLSS), and maybe one in a hundred will say yes,” says Charlet, 74. Yet the government agency, which was founded in 1871 and morphed into the Coast Guard in 1915, rescued more than 177,000 sailors and civilians from coastal shipwrecks. Servicemen did it using little more than cork flotation devices, ropes and oar-driven wooden boats.

Crews of about eight men were assigned to lifesaving stations, which were mostly located on isolated coastal shores and managed by a ‘keeper.’ Known as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” the Outer Banks was notoriously dangerous for mariners. Accordingly, the area was home to seven stations in 1874 and 29 by 1915. During that time its USLSS crewmen saw more action than any other U.S. location.

“These men were constantly regaled as heroes in the nation’s top magazines and newspapers,” Charlet tells the audience. “People all across the country were inspired by their daring acts of bravery. But today, that history is almost totally forgotten.” Charlet has spent much of the past 20 years trying to change that. The Sanderling event celebrated the quest’s crowning achievement: Globe Pequot’s March 2020 publication of his new book, Shipwrecks of the Outer Banks, Dramatic Rescues and Fantastic Wrecks in the Graveyard of the Atlantic.

a man and a woman is standing at a hotel lobby — KJ & Linda at Sanderling Lyle Gun, Havel

Charlet and Molloy, who worked together at the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site on Hatteras Island, told theatrical stories about wrecks and USLSS rescues. Executive Chef of the Lifesaving Restaurant Brian Riddle provided a four-course dinner of fine-dining takes on seasonal, period-correct dishes and beverages enjoyed by crews. Originally built in 1874, and later designated a National Historic Landmark, the resort’s renovated station-turned-restaurant was the perfect venue.

“[Charlet and Molloy] transported the audience back in time and held them spellbound with tales of real-life heroes,” said Sanderling Resort program coordinator, Ashley Vaught, who attended the dinner. It was so successful she’s partnering with the couple to do more in 2021. “Their ability to make history come alive and shed light on the lives and deeds of these astonishing men is informative and wonderfully entertaining.”

Charlet’s book has struck a similar nerve with readers. It’s become one of Globe Pequot’s current best-sellers and has been made available at major retailers throughout the U.S. and in more than a dozen countries worldwide.

North Carolina State Historical Sites Chief Curator, Martha Jackson, says Charlet does nothing halfway. “His passion for history is superlative and inspiring.” And it’s augmented by an endearing sense of humor, kindness and charm.

Research revealed more than 3,000 known shipwrecks have occurred along the OBX, with an estimated 600 occurring near Hatteras alone. Surrounding stories offered a wellspring of intrigue. For instance, barrier islands like Hatteras were located about 30 miles from the mainland and had no paved roads until the mid-20th century. Villages were isolated, clannish, and had about 100-200 residents each. Legend has it that groups known as ‘wreckers’ once used lanterns to trick wayward ships into running ashore at night. The boats were pilfered for supplies, building materials and valuables. This is most likely not true. Later, German submarines and mines sank more than 100 freighters and tankers during World War I.

“You start reading about this stuff and there are so many incredible stories, it gets addictive,” says Charlet. He volunteered at local mariners’ museums to learn more. One was the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Historic Site, which features a restored 19th century USLSS station. “You hear ‘life-saving’ and you think lifeguards, lighthouses, that sort of thing. Well, this was something altogether different.”

The station’s most famous rescue involved the August 1918 wreck of the British tanker, Mirlo. Charlet used old captain’s logs, news articles, reports, correspondence and interviews to reconstruct what happened the 52 British sailors safely onto the beach.

Remarkably, the heroic tale wasn’t anomalous. “Once I’d pieced together the Mirlo story, I thought, ‘Wow, I bet there are more of these,’” says Charlet. Researching neighboring stations validated the hunch. On one side, a serviceman had singlehandedly saved 12 men from a wrecked barkentine. The only all African American crew in the USLSS had served on the other—and executed dozens of rescues.

“It didn’t take long to realize these stories were virtually inexhaustible,” says Charlet.

Charlet was hooked. He started spending free-time tracking down information about obscure OBX wrecks and related USLSS rescues. He compiled findings into narratives and shared them with groups like the National Maritime Historical Society. They were well received and led to public presentations and articles in regional periodicals.

“People really responded to these stories, and I was one of them,” says Linda Molloy. She met Charlet at a Chicamacomico Historic Site event in the early 2000s. His presentation about the USLSS inspired her to volunteer and the two began dating soon thereafter. A few years later, they were hired by the onsite museum. Brainstorming ideas to boost attendance and enhance visitor experiences inspired them to develop historical personas. Molloy was a seamstress and former actor. She made costumes and worked with Charlet to hone living-history presentations centered around turn-of the-century rescues and village life. Jackson, the North Carolina historical sites curator, calls the results “fantastic.” Visitor feedback was unanimous: Molloy and Charlet were an extraordinary hit.

Charlet’s book came out of a chance encounter: An author with ties to Globe Pequot read one of his stories and suggested he pitch writing about the USLSS.

“The Coast Guard is the only branch of the U.S. military where the primary focus is saving lives,” says Charlet. Exploring its largely forgotten origins had national appeal. The adventurous and almost unbelievable reality of Outer Banks USLSS servicemen was like a positive version of the Wild West. “Their deeds were heroic, in the truest sense of the word.”

Charlet emailed the publisher, submitting past articles as potential chapters. They loved the material and signed a deal in 2018. “It was all pretty surreal,” says Charlet, laughing. The project let him fully indulge his obsession. “I got to spend about eighteen months totally immersed. It was great fun.”

And the book reads accordingly. On one hand, it’s filled with dozens of suspenseful tales about rescues. On the other, it offers a fascinating portrait of 19th and early-20th century life on what is today one of the East Coast’s top tourist areas.

For his part, Charlet is thrilled the book has found a large audience. But his delight isn’t about personal acclaim.

“I’m happy to help restore this amazing chapter of history,” says Charlet. In an era that celebrates actors, athletes, YouTube stars and billionaires as heroes, “it’s important for people to understand what real heroism looked like.”

To be sure, Charlet’s book showcases some dazzling examples.

THE BOOK

Unlike conventional shipwreck books which are simply arranged chronologically, this is a themed-collection: The Well-Known, The Lesser-Known, The Hardly Known, some Dramatic Failures and the Mysterious. Some specific wrecks – the Tiger, the USS Huron, the SS Central America – so impacted our history as to forever alter our fate. All are true stories more about the rescues than the wrecks; the real-life human drama of shipwreck victims and their heroic lifesavers. In their time, the men of the United States Life-Saving Service responded to over 178,000 lives in peril from the sea; of which they saved over 177,000. Yet America forgot these peaceful heroes. These eye-opening accounts correctly reveal America’s Forgotten Heroes – the United States Life-Saving Service, predecessor of today’s United States Coast Guard.

“James Charlet has written a masterpiece that not only preserves the heroism of the brave surfmen of the U.S. Life-Saving Stations but reveals little-known maritime history,” Martha Battle Jackson, Chief Curator, Division of State Historic Sites and Properties, NC Dept. of Natural and Cultural Resources.

For more information about the book, about James, and more reviews, Google the book main title and add James Charlet. You will find numerous sources.

RAVE PROFESSIONAL EDITORIAL REVIEWS

a book cover — Leslie, Feb 28, 1885, COVER, Fire Isl rescue

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It showed me that, as much as I thought I knew about the history of the Outer Banks, there is a lot more that I didn’t know. James Charlet has written an extraordinary account of the shipwrecks along the Outer Banks. From the earliest settlers through Blackbeard, colonial America and into the 21st century, he has captured the essence of why the Outer Banks is known as the Graveyard of the Atlantic.–Chris Wright, BMCM, USCG (ret); Surfman 309.

James Charlet is one of America’s finest storytellers today. With experience as a historian, manager of the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station, and a lifelong student of maritime legends, there is no better subject for him than the true stories of nightmarish shipwrecks along the notoriously dangerous North Carolina Coast. Shipwrecks of the Outer Banks offers in-depth looks at some of the most famous shipwrecks to date and what caused them. He puts the reader right there on board the distressed ship or in the life-saving surfboat with the angels in oil coats struggling to rescue their fellow mariners. Well-illustrated and peppered with fascinating behind-the-scenes explanations, this book is hard to put down.–Cheryl Shelton-Roberts.

If you have ever experienced James Charlet relating the history of the U.S. Life-Saving Service and tales of heroic rescues by the Chicamacomico Station, you know you are in for a treat. I have watched as James held his audiences spellbound, from small children to older adults, and this book does not disappoint. He does a masterful job weaving the history of the U.S. Life-Saving Service (now the U.S. Coast Guard), explaining why the Outer Banks of North Carolina are the “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” and recounting seemingly impossible rescues of passengers and crews of unfortunate ships foundering off the coast. In addition, the author explains nautical terms to landlubbers so that we can better appreciate and understand what actually happened. He also relates how certain wrecks impacted the history of the United States, such as the loss of the SS Central America adversely affecting the fragile economy and political climate of the time. James Charlet has written a masterpiece that not only preserves the heroism of the brave surfmen of the U.S. Life-Saving Stations but reveals little-known maritime history. A MUST read for all persons serving in the U.S. Coast Guard!–Martha Jackson, Chief Curator, Division of State Historic Sites and Properties, NC Dept. of Natural and Cultural Resources.

Keeper James methodically reveals his passion about the Lifesaving Service. I was amazed by his knowledge on this important piece of American History, and his diligent attention to the details. The 1918 rescue of the SS Mirlo‘s crew in Chapter 3 stirred my excitement and almost brought me to tears. Such heroics exceed my imagination. Hat’s off to a master storyteller! This history deserves to be told and retold. America is in need of heroes to spur each of us to go above and beyond what we think we can accomplish. These ordinary men from the Outer Banks of North Carolina performed superhuman feats of courage, exemplifying the true meaning of the “golden rule.” I would like to have known some of them on a personal level, across the table over a cup of hot coffee on a cold and windy day. They are simply inspiring!–Lewis C. Forrest, Chair, The Friends of the Outer Banks History Center.

TO ORDER: National Book Network, Tel: (800) 462-6420, Fax: (800) 338-4550 customercare@nbnbooks.com Current sale outlets: Amazon, Google Books, Barnes and Noble, Good Reads, Target, Thrift Books, National Book Network, Vital Source, Kindle Store and Books-A-Million. Also Our State Magazine shop. Internationally, it is available from Renaud-Bray (France), Rakuten Kobo (Canada), Billigkroken ARK Blog (Norway), Amazon.com.uk (Great Britain), Amazon.es (Spain), Amazon.it (Italy), Bol.com (The Hague, Netherlands), Rakuten.co.jp (Japan), Book Depository (UK), Mighty Ape (New Zealand), Adlibris (Finland), JPC (Germany), and Coinfo Book Service in Australia.

Sanderling Resort Lifesaving Restaurant, Duck, Outer Banks, NC

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Issue 081 - February 2022

SEVENSEAS Travel Magazine – February 2022 – Issue 81

Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Cycling in Cyprus

Beautiful and diverse, Cyprus’ terrain lures many cyclists from all over Europe who want to experience epic cycling adventures across scenic, peaceful and car-free routes. The island is a firm favourite for competitive and leisurely cycling, mountain biking and road cycling alike. Read more…

Feature Destination: Climbing in Cyprus

Cyprus is an island full of hidden climbing treasures that can satiate climbers of all disciplines and skill levels. From beginners to experienced and elite climbers, from fans of traditional climbing to sport, speed, aid and recreational climbing or bouldering, Aphrodite’s birthplace offers experiences beyond imagination. Read more…

Feature Destination: Hiking in Cyprus

The mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, is a paradise for hikers. A peaceful place with more than 11,000 years in its natural environs – all yours to explore! Tourists flock to Cyprus from all over the world to discover landscapes with astonishing sea views, traditional villages, fertile plains and lavish coniferous forests. Read more…

Conservation Photography with Karim & Jack

Humpback Whales Emerging Through The Bubble – Under the Waves with Karim Iliya

Berthella Martensi – Jack’s February 2022 Underwater Photograph

What’s In Our Newsroom

Strong, Recyclable, & Degradable: New Sugar-Based Plastics Are a Sweet Deal

Starting with sugars, researchers have made sustainable plastics that perform as well, or even better, than commonly available plastics, and are also degradable and easy to recycle. Plus, unlike other recyclable plastics, their mechanical properties don’t worsen after being reprocessed. Read more…

Cuba Shows How to Take Action on Climate Change

Cuba, a small island besieged by the United States, is taking concrete measures to reorient its economy in the fight against climate change. It’s an example that the whole world should take seriously” Read more…

Could Whale Watching Tourism Benefit Whale Conservation?

Many conservationists celebrated a recent bill passed in the Washington state legislature that limits commercial whale watching of the endangered Southern Resident Orcas. However, the activists aboard these commercial whale-watching boats are not as convinced of the positive implications of the bill. Read more…

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Sawfish around the world are critically endangered, having suffered global declines in both range and abundance. Animal populations which undergo drastic declines in abundance are typically at risk of having reduced levels of genetic diversity and may be less ‘fit’, more susceptible to disease, and have a compromised ability to adapt to a changing environment. Read more…

Rare Coral Reef Discovered Near Tahiti By a UNESCO Mission

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The Nature Coaching Cure to Eco-Despair is Right Outside

Climate change is a growing threat to mental health according to the American Psychiatric Association. The surprising consequences of events like drought and extreme weather events include mind stress and distress, high risk coping behaviours like increased alcohol use, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress1. According to the CDC, ⅔ of people are at risk for cancer due to the ramifications of environmental disasters like wildfires and hurricanes, and human-caused disasters like air quality and pesticides. Read more…

Reef-World Stronger & More Dynamic Moving Towards 2022 Despite Global Pandemic

The Reef-World Foundation – international coordinator of the UN Environment Programme’s Green Fins initiative – reveals the highlights and major developments in their latest 2020–2021 annual report today. The report shows how the charity has had to adapt to the pandemic to continue to deliver and is determined to build back better. Read more…

History Forgot The Life-Saving Service That Birthed The U.S. Coast Guard: James Charlet is Changing That

Excellent painting, surfboat approaching shipwreck, 'The Wreck of the H.P. Kirkham,' Egan Maritime InstituteHP-Kirkham-Charman-2

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The FREE Weekly Conservation Post and Jobs List

Signing up for the free Weekly Newsletter & Jobs List will get you a round-up of upcoming events, webinars, meetings, reports, funding opportunities, photos of the week, and recent postings to the jobs list.

To sign up for our free subscription, please Click Here or email us Here.

Since 2004, SEVENSEAS Media has fostered an informal and non-partisan platform to promote understanding of key issues and challenges while building partnerships across an increasingly diverse group of marine conservation professionals and students.

Our mission is to promote communication and build partnerships across the global marine community and to identify and address gaps in the community’s work. SEVENSEAS Media achieves this through multimedia promotion and partnerships. The community consists of a diverse and growing group of participants, including non-governmental organizations, government agencies, foundations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, fellowship programs, independent consultants, and academia/students.

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Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Cycling in Cyprus

Biking enthusiasts get impressed by Cyprus’ varied landscape that can go from steep to flat and from rocky to clay within only a few kilometres.

Ride out into urban, rural, mountainous and coastal roadways packed with a range of natural wonders. Follow the designated cycling routes or venture out on your own biking adventure. Feel the Mediterranean breeze through your hair and get spontaneous; you might end up in a delightfully unexpected place!

The lack of headwinds, the sunny summers and mild winters in Cyprus make cycling an enjoyable activity throughout the year. Yet, spring and autumn are the ideal seasons when the days are long and not overly hot.

Various convenient rides start from Paphos in the west, Limassol in the south and from the capital Nicosia, towards the Troodos Mountain range at the heart of the island. Explore the coastal routes that offer spectacular views of picturesque bays and turquoise waters. Experienced cyclists choose to follow the valleys up to Mount Olympos through the rugged Troodos forest.

Ready to embark on a memorable cycling experience in the land of legends?

MTB & Road Cycling in Cyprus

The mountainous territory and the magnificent Troodos forest routes at high altitudes make Cyprus a great European destination for mountain bikers. The bike trails network at Troodos and Akamas peninsula are easily accessible wherever you’re based in Cyprus. Off-road cyclists can test their technical skills and stamina. The terrain becomes very challenging at certain points along the cycling routes, with steep slopes and rocky surfaces. MTB is allowed in any region of the island.

For road cyclists, Cyprus also features smooth road surfaces, dedicated cycling lanes around big towns, and most importantly, there is hardly any traffic! The cycling routes guide visitors through tranquil forests, archaeological sites, idyllic vineyards, traditional villages and stunning olive groves.

The island boasts 45 cycle routes for outdoor fans:

17 bike trails
23 mountain biking routes
5 road cycling rides

Tips to get prepared for Cycling in Cyprus

Cyprus is a great destination to meet other cycling enthusiasts, take in the beautiful scenery and put your skills to the test.

Once you have booked your cycling holidays on the island, it’s time to get well-prepared to ensure you enjoy your biking adventure to the maximum.

Before you put on your lycra shorts and cycling shoes, check out some top tips that will help you make the most out of your trip, have loads of fun and get back home with a suitcase full of unforgettable experiences!

Outline a tentative cycling plan. Plan and study your trip itinerary and grading before you take your bike on tour in Cyprus. Will you follow your own route or join an organized cycling journey with professional drivers and local guides? Create your cycling bucket list and let Cyprus amaze you with its incredible blend of scenery, culture and history.
Prepare your bike or rent one on the island. Cyprus’ long climbs and steep descents will be challenging not only for your physical strength but also for the bike. Make sure your bike’s gears, brakes, pedals and tires are in good condition before you pack it up to travel. If you do not wish to travel with your own bike, you’ll find many bike rental shops on the island.
Remember to cycle on the left-hand side of the road. Use the street only if there is no cycling lane and always keep your bike on the left-hand side of the road as Cyprus follows the left-hand traffic system. In addition, be aware that cycling on highways is illegal and you might get a fine.

Who can go cycling in Cyprus?

You don’t have to be a cycling pro to explore Cyprus on two wheels. The island features a diverse landscape with thematic routes suitable for all level cyclists . From beginner to more advanced cyclists to families with children, Cyprus will offer you the ultimate biking experience!

Top Cycling Routes in Cyprus

With 45 cycling routes, you will never get enough of Cyprus!

Athalassa National Forest Park Cycling Route , Nicosia

The Athalassa National Forest Park nestles to the southeast of Nicosia and it is the greenest area within the capital’s territory. The park is surrounded by Aglantzia in the north, Strovolos and Latsia in the southwest, and Geri in the southeast.

It features a 16 km bicycle path passing along a lake and through a stunning eucalyptus-lined forest. It’s a very popular training and recreational cycling area among locals.

The route is fun and relaxing, suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. The surface varies from hard pack to gravel to soft sand and dirt roads.

Difficulty: Easy
Length: 16 km
Estimated duration: Suitable for all types of bicycles
Start point: South of Nicosia park (Lefkosia)
End point: East of the Nicosia – Limassol motorway
Terrain: Paved road

A Sea of Green and the Coast route, Larnaca – Limassol

The route starts in the historic and picturesque village of Tochni in Larnaca District and heads to Choirokoitia – a UNESCO World Heritage site as of 1998. The next stop is Vavla, a traditional village with white-stone houses. Head downward to Lageia and then uphill towards Ora village. Here starts the mountainous terrain of Limassol with the villages of Akapnou, Eptagonia, Arakapas, Dierona, Akrounta and the Germasogeia urban area.

The route passes through the archaeological site of Amathus, where cyclists stop to gaze at the impressive remains of the ancient city-kingdom that dates back to the 4th century BC. The site features public baths, the Agora, the Temple of Aphrodite, several tombs and early Christian basilicas. The cycling route continues along the coast, offering wonderful views of the Mediterranean and the long glistening beaches.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 83,8 km
Terrain:Mountain
Road surface: Paved
Highest point: 688 m
Start point: Tochni
Loop: Yes. It ends back in the village of Tochni.

Tour of Marathasa Cycling Route, Troodos – Nicosia – Limassol – Paphos

This fascinating cycling excursion begins in Troodos square and climbs to the west toward Mount Olympos. Next, the route continues downhill to Prodromos village (the highest in Cyprus) and turns right to a pinewood area and Kykkos monastery. Spend some time here exploring one of the most lavish religious sites on the island, dedicated to Virgin Mary. The route continues to Stavros tis Psokas and the breathtaking Cedar Valley.

The fresh air, the beauty of the virgin nature and the lovely architecture of the mountainous villages is an experience you will never forget.

Difficulty: Intense
Distance: 90,34 km
Terrain:Mountain
Bike: MTB or road bike with low gear ratios
Highest point: 1824 m
Elevation gain: 4746 m
Start point: Troodos square
Loop: Yes

Paphos (Pafos) , Polis Cycling Route

An exciting and demanding route that goes from Paphos to Polis, the main town of Chrysochou Bay.

The adventurous uphill trip starts from Kato Paphos and follows the coastal road to Coral Bay. It then climbs to the village of Peyia (Pegeia), one of the largest villages in the region, known for its ancient baths, the natural freshwater fountains and its spectacular Sea Caves.

Peyia Sea Caves is a unique place of great geological interest and incomparable beauty. It features priceless coastal formations created thousands of years ago. Along the bay, cyclists can admire enormous rocky seashores, scattered islets and large caves. The awe-inspiring view showcases the sea’s magnificent power.

From Peyia, cyclists can enjoy incredible panoramic vistas to Coral Bay and Paphos city. The route continues through the forest and heads toward Kathikas village and Prodromos. The cycling route ends in Polis.

Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 37 km
Terrain:Mountain
Bike: Mountain bike with excellent suspension
Elevation gain: 615 m
Start point: Paphos
End poing: Polis Chrysochous

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Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Hiking in Cyprus

Hiking in Cyprus

Peaceful afternoon in Ayia Napa, Famagusta, Cyprus

The mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, is a paradise for hikers. A peaceful place with more than 11,000 years in its natural environs – all yours to explore!

Tourists flock to Cyprus from all over the world to discover landscapes with astonishing sea views, traditional villages, fertile plains and lavish coniferous forests. At the same time, you will get to enjoy opulent sunsets and warm weather.

The island offers a great variety of easily accessible hiking trails that steer visitors to some of the best corners of Cyprus. Natural beauty, remnants of history and rich culture surround you in every direction.

The sign-posted walking trails and ancient footpaths highlight Cyprus’ deep-rooted beauty and its strong Mediterranean character. Hikers love trekking through the island’s placid villages with cobbled streets and stone houses, modest monasteries and fragrant vineyards.

Trails range in difficulty and length, from 3 km to 176 km. Maps, itineraries and guidebooks are available at the tourist information offices in Cyprus’ big cities and online.

So, lace up your hiking boots, grab a walking stick and start exploring Cyprus on foot!

Tips to get prepared for Hiking in Cyprus

Cyprus has hiking trails for outdoor fanatics of all fitness levels. With appropriate planning, the right tools, and an appetite for adventure, you can enjoy a pleasant and safe hike.

Leave behind any stressful thoughts, obligations, work emails, and heavy schedules and enjoy the journey. But before you hit the trail, check out these top hints for casual strolls or hikes on steep slopes.

Plan the hike ahead. Head to VisitCyprus to choose among over 50 designated thematic routes, including nature trails, wine routes, religious routes, cultural routes and more. You’ll find all the information you need to plan your hiking adventure in detail. Based on your trekking experience and mood, you can pick among easy, moderate or more challenging routes to explore. Alternatively, opt for the guided hiking tours running across the island throughout the year.
Design your route according to the season. Temperatures in Cyprus can exceed 40°C during summertime. Choose short and easy trails along the coastline and long walks in Troodos’ pathways from June to August. Always remember to have sunscreen, glasses, a sun hat, plenty of water and some Cypriot raisins for an energy boost.
Research in advance for drinking water sources in remote areas. Plan your stops for lunch and water well in advance, especially when hiking in remote areas like the Troodos Mountains or the Akamas peninsula.
Take with you the right gear. Pick comfortable and breathable clothing that helps you keep warm in winter or cool off for the hot summer months. Opt for clothes of vivid colors that offer adequate sun protection. If you go for Cyprus’ rocky trails and steep slopes, put on a reliable pair of walking shoes.

Who can go hiking in Cyprus?

Cyprus features hiking and walking trails for all ages to explore. You can go hiking alone, with your partner, friends, family and children, or a group of like-minded hikers. There are easy, moderate and hard trails to follow based on your hiking experience.

Top Hiking Trails in Cyprus

Caledonia (Kalidonia) Waterfall Trail – Limassol District, Troodos Forest Nature Trail

This unique trail passes through the dense forest of Troodos Mountain – an oasis full of dazzling pine trees, wild roses and golden oaks. It runs alongside burbling streams and the “Krios Potamos.” The view of one of Cyprus’ tallest waterfalls in the heart of Troodos is breathtaking. Along the way, hikers may get carried away by the stunning views of the valley below until they reach “Psilo Dentro” in Pano Platres.

Difficulty: Difficult. Suitable for seasoned hikers and families with older children.
Length: 3 km (linear)
Estimated duration: 1.5 hrs
Highest peak altitude: 1,571 m
Trailhead: Troodos Platres road

Insider Tip: Best to visit From March to October. While hiking, you can take a closer look at the endemic plants, such as the Purple Rock Cress (Arabis purpurea) and Aphrodite’s spurge (Euphorbia veneris).

Aphrodite & Adonis Nature Trail – Paphos District, Akamas Forest Nature Trail

A fantastic opportunity for hikers to take in the most sensational views of the glittering Mediterranean, Blue Lagoon, Cape Arnaoutis, Polis Chrysochous and Paphos Forest. Revel in nature’s magical beauty while hiking across Cyprus’ western peninsula featuring a chalk-white limestone coast. That’s one of the most popular walks and a great trail to fill your suitcase with beautiful memories!

The nature trail passes through the Baths of Aphrodite (Loutra tis Afroditis), where the Goddess of Love used to take her baths and met her lover, Adonis. In a short distance, hikers can admire the ruins of Queen’s Tower (Pyrgos tis Rigainas) that belong to a medieval monastery. Near the remnants of the tower, there’s a 500-year old oak tree and a faucet with drinking water.

Difficulty: Difficult.
Length: 7,5 km (circular)
Estimated duration: 3 – 4 hrs
Highest peak altitude: 333 m
Trailhead: Baths of Aphrodite

Insider Tip: Visit the Botanical Gardens of Akamas close to the trail’s starting point and smell the sweet fragrances of colorful blossoms in the spring. Along the way, you’ll find several benches to get some rest, marvel at incredible views and unwind

Kannoures Nature Trail to Kakopetria – Limassol District, Troodos Forest Nature Trail

A trail located within the virgin Troodos National Forest Park – ideal for more experienced hikers. It starts at Karkotis River, crosses the magnificent Solea valley, and ends in Kakopetria. On the way, you can rest at Agios Nikolaos tis Stegischurch that boasts exquisite frescoes from the 12th century. This sacred site is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage monument.

Difficulty: Difficult. Difficult downhill trail
Length: 12 km (linear)
Estimated duration: 4 hrs
Highest peak altitude: 1,654 m
Trailhead: The main road of Karvounas

Insider Tip: The trail is suitable for dogs, but you should keep them on a leash.

Germasogeia Dam Nature Trail (Phoinikaria) – Limassol District

A trail around a beautiful valley located just 20 minutes away from the city of Limassol. The circular route passes through the eastern hills of Limassol district, offering lovely views of Foinikaria village, the Germasogeia dam, Limassol and Akrotiri. The terrain is relatively smooth and wide but becomes fairly rocky at points, with several mild uphill and downhill pathways.

The rural scenery features olive trees, wildflowers, pine trees and indigenous wild bushes. Close to the trail, the Foinikaria picnic area provides hikers with a water supply, wooden benches to rest, and a playground for little hikers.