Cape Greco, Cyprus

🌊 Cape Greco – Cyprus’ Natural Gem of Cliffs and Caves

Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco, is a spectacular national park located on the southeastern tip of Cyprus, between the popular resort towns of Ayia Napa and Protaras. Known for its rugged cliffs, sea caves, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, Cape Greco is a must-visit for nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and adventurers alike.

This protected coastal area is part of the Natura 2000 network and offers a unique combination of natural beauty, geology, and outdoor activities.

🌿 Top Things to See and Do in Cape Greco

🪨 1. Sea Caves

The Cape Greco Sea Caves are a natural wonder, carved out by the sea over thousands of years. These majestic rock formations form arches, tunnels, and caverns right on the edge of the sea.
Adventurers often cliff dive into the deep blue waters below (note: caution and safety are essential), and the caves can also be explored by kayak or boat.
The area is a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving, with clear waters and diverse marine life.

🥾 2. Nature Trails

Cape Greco features several scenic nature trails, perfect for hiking or cycling. The trails wind through pine forests, rocky hills, and coastal paths offering amazing views of the sea.
Popular routes include the Sea Caves Trail, Agioi Anargyroi Trail, and the Konnos Nature Trail. Along the way, you’ll encounter rare plants and wildflowers native to the region.

🏞️ 3. Cape Greco Viewpoint

At the top of Cape Greco, there’s a panoramic viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and the open sea. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and couples, especially at sunrise and sunset.

🕍 4. Ayioi Anargyroi Chapel

This small white and blue cliffside chapel overlooks the sea and is dedicated to Saints Cosmas and Damian. A staircase nearby leads down to a natural cave, once used as a place of worship.
It’s a peaceful and scenic location, often visited for quiet reflection, photography, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the surroundings.

⛴️ 5. Blue Lagoon Boat Trips

From nearby harbors, visitors can take boat tours around Cape Greco and visit the Blue Lagoon, a crystal-clear bay perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
These boat trips often include stops at the sea caves and swim breaks, making for a fun and relaxing day on the water.

🌅 Best Experiences at Cape Greco

Sunrise and Sunset: Cape Greco is famous for its breathtaking sunrises, as it’s one of the first places on the island to see the sun each morning. The sunsets are equally stunning, painting the sky with orange and pink hues over the cliffs.
Rock Arch (Bridge of Lovers): A natural rock formation that looks like a bridge, known as the “Bridge of Lovers”, is a popular spot for photos and romantic moments.
Birdwatching: The area is home to many migratory bird species, especially during spring and autumn. It’s a peaceful place for wildlife observation.

🍴 Food & Nearby Dining

While there aren’t restaurants inside the park, Ayia Napa and Protaras are both within a 10-15 minute drive and offer a wide variety of dining options:

Seafood tavernas serving fresh local catch
Traditional Cypriot meze platters
Quick eats like gyros, souvlaki, and halloumi sandwiches
Beachfront cafes with refreshing drinks and cocktails

Tip: Bring water and snacks if you plan to hike, as services inside the park are limited.

🏡 Where to Stay

Cape Greco is best visited as a day trip from nearby towns, with both Ayia Napa and Protaras offering excellent accommodation:

Luxury: Grecian Park Hotel – close to Cape Greco with spectacular sea views and private access to Konnos Bay.
Mid-Range: Sunrise Beach Hotel in Protaras – great amenities and close to restaurants.
Budget: Napa Prince Hotel Apartments – affordable, clean, and central in Ayia Napa.

🚗 Getting to Cape Greco

By Car: The easiest and most flexible option. Roads are well-marked, and there’s parking near all the main sites.
By Bike: For those staying nearby, renting a bicycle offers a scenic and eco-friendly way to reach Cape Greco.
By Bus: Local buses from Ayia Napa and Protaras run regularly, stopping near the park’s main entrance.

📅 Best Time to Visit

Spring (March–May): Ideal temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and fewer tourists.
Summer (June–August): Hot and dry, perfect for sea activities. Go early or late in the day to avoid the heat.
Autumn (September–November): Great weather and beautiful sunsets.
Winter (December–February): Quiet and peaceful, though some activities like boat tours may be limited.