Introduction

Step back in time to a land where life takes a slower pace, where busy resorts packed with shopping malls and international fast food chains are unheard of. This internationally unrecognized hidden gem is an island paradise of remote villages, endless secluded sandy beaches caressed by crystal clear waters and an impressive cultural heritage that stems from over 10,000 years of history.

Unspoilt and still retaining its natural beauty and cultural integrity North Cyprus is in sharp comparison to the commercialized south and has so much to offer any discerning traveler: Its healthy climate of long summers, short winters and little rain make North Cyprus a perfect all-year round destination. Two of the islands most attractive towns can be found here in North Cyprus (Kyrenia and Famagusta), and there are many towns and villages each with their own unique character. For the historians there are a wealth of treasures that include St Hilarion, a spectacular ruined castle a Crusader Fortress and one of three found here. But arguably the island's most significant archeological site is Salamis, historically one of the great cities of the Eastern Mediterranean. The beautiful mountain vista that is Besparmak mountain range found in Kyrenia is a hikers paradise.

For the nature lovers the Mediterranean climate is a major contributor to the land's rich flora, and over 1500 of the 1900 species that occur in North Cyprus, including 32 species of orchid, are endemic to the island. Its boundless sandy beaches, free from high rise resorts, are truly places of outstanding natural beauty and are home to rare protected turtles.

The Turkish Cypriot cuisine is wonderfully delicious encompassing grilled fish, freshly caught that morning, and tender lamb and chicken. The citrus fruits, watermelon, figs and grapes are naturally sweet and just melt in your mouth. The people are kind, friendly and hospitable, and if this is not enough to entice you to visit there is the matter of cost; it is one of the cheaper places within Europe to visit.


North Cyprus Holidays

There are several types of holiday you can experience in North Cyprus.

Classic North Cyprus family and beach holiday: There are a large number of 3, 4 and 5 star hotels offering an array of facilities to suit your needs, from quiet bed and breakfast and small boutique hotels to larger ultra all inclusive resorts. Many have private beaches, kids clubs, outdoor pools and aqua parks while a few also have open air cinemas and golf courses. Whatever your need are you will find a North Cyprus hotels that can cater to your every need.

Cultural and historical escorted tour of North Cyprus will take you to several heritage sites. These spectacular ancient ruins, castle and monasteries are scattered throughout North Cyprus. These tours also give you the opportunity to see up close how Turkish Cypriot cheese and olive oil is made as well as their native arts and crafts.

Walking and Biking holidays are very popular: The islands unique and diverse habitat offers a rich flora and fauna. There are six protected areas in North Cyprus which can be accessed by a network of trails. These trails comprise of nearly 600 Km of way-marked unbroken trails, that extend from the Akdeniz Peninsular in the West to the tip of the Karpaz Peninsular to the East.

Scuba diving tours: For scuba divers, there is an underwater world beckoning along the coast on North Cyprus. With several diving point in the districts of Kyrenia, Famagusta and the Karpaz Peninsula not only does it offer a chance to observe the natural sea-life of the Mediterranean but you will also encounter sunken ships and ancient civilizations.

Weekend breaks are also available throughout the year allowing you to take in some of the many festivals on offer such as art, music, and film while also basking in the glorious sunshine and swimming in the luke warm Mediterranean sea.

North Cyprus is the hidden gem of the Mediterranean, holidays in North Cyprus offer unlimited possibilities for everyone to enjoy!

General Information

Population: 285,356

Capital: Lefkosa (Nicosia)

Language: Turkish though English is widely spoken.

Religion: Islam

International dialling code: 00 90 392

Main Airport: Ercan Airport (ECN)

Typical flying time: 5 hours including a 45 min stopover in Turkey.

Visa Requirements: None for British passport holders.

Health requirements: None

Currency: Turkish Lire (TRY) (All major credit cards accepted)

Tipping: 10% is expected in restaurants and for taxis.

Time: GMT +2

Electricity: 240 volts

Driving: They drive on the left. A British driving licence is accepted for those who have been driving for over 12 months.