Hiking heaven in Cyprus

Ramblers and hikers have been given more reason to travel to the mountainous ranges of Cyprus after the Path E4 was extended to the country.

The massive walking path, which has already been a hit throughout Europe, now covers 539 km of Cyprus, running between Larnaka and Pafos.

Before Cyprus was added to the path, it started at Gibraltar, passed through Spain, France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Bulgaria, mainland Greece and Crete.

Now it has been extended to Cyprus, at the recommendation of the Greek Ramblers Association, and the total path distance has been extended to 10,450 km.

Hikers who make the journey to Cyprus can take the Path E4 across Troodos mountain range, Akamas peninsula and long stretches of Cypriot rural areas.

The route also takes in areas of high ecological, archaeological, cultural and scientific value.

However, the massive path should not represent all that Cyprus has to offer the avid rambler, as the path was primarily designed as a cross-country route.

There are 48 well-signposted walking trails across the island, covering a total distance of 200 km.

Around Troodos mountains, there are plenty of paths such as the Artemis Trail, which takes the hiker through the lush vegetation that includes flora such as the Cyprus crocus, orchids and black pines.

Or around Pafos ramblers can take the trails to the east and north-east of Panagia, where they can experience the Xeros River Valley and perhaps catch a glimpse of the reclusive moufflon, a wild sheep.

For more information on the Path E4, visit www.era-ewv-ferp.com XXX