Locations in North Cyprus

East

Kyrenia (Girne) is the major tourist town in North Cyprus, located on the north coast, and a wonderful base for any holiday on the island. This historic town is within easy reaching distance of all the major sites, and sits on the edge of the dazzling Mediterranean Sea. It offers a great choice of both hotels and select holiday villas for rent (just ask us for some great recommendations!), Kyrenia also has wonderful restaurants, welcoming bars and some charming shops in its winding streets.

The beautiful coastline of east Kyrenia has an abundance of beautiful beaches, and a new coastal road that makes driving a joy!

Karakum is the first town you'll meet going east of Kyrenia, just a short walk from the town centre and with its own sandy beach. Combining elegant villas with charming Cypriot houses, Karakum is for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere without being in the centre of town.

Ozankoy lies in the lower foothills of the Kyrenia Mountains, so the sea views are great! Some of the best beaches in North Cyprus are in this vicinity, and Ozankoy itself has plenty of local shops and popular restaurants. Try The Old Mill for great food and drink in an ambient setting.

Bellapais is the next stop, a beautiful mountain village dominated by the ruins of Augustine Bellapais Abbey, whose ruined arches and echoing cloisters dominate the skyline. The picturesque village square is home to the famous Tree of Idleness; the legend goes that those who sit under its branches too long never want to leave! One of the best tourist locations in North Cyprus, Bellapais offers outstanding panoramic views, easy walking access to a traditional village centre, and a five minute drive down the hill to the beach.

Catalkoy is a perfect resort for families, combining a pleasant village feel with many useful local amenities. The turtles at Alagadi Turtle Beach are just a five minute drive away, and it's only a 30 minute drive from Ercan Airport. Catalkoy boasts some excellent local restaurants, including The Grove if you're in the mood for a Ruby Murray (curry!).

Esentepe is the ideal location for any budding golfers, as the new Korineum Golf and Country Club is located here. The 18 hole international-level course enjoys a spectacular setting, winding around the foothills of the mountains and amongst ancient olive trees. For those not so interested in clubs and caddies, Esentepe is a wonderfully serene village, within just a few minutes drive of some fabulous beaches, including the famous Acapulco Beach.

Tatlisu is next to Esentepe, and may be one of the best kept secrets in North Cyprus! Here, you have all the benefits of being right next to Esentepe, but still can enjoy the feel and look of a traditional Cypriot village. It's also overlooked by the ruins of Kantara Castle ad a rather magnificent Byzantine church.

West

Zeytinlik is one of the best places to experience rural North Cyprus, and within a five minute drive of the heart of Kyrenia! Buy a villa here, and you'll be amongst olive trees and green fields. Hop into your car, and you can be relaxing on a sandy beach or ordering a Turkish coffee by the sea in Kyrenia within ten minutes.

If you love being beside the seaside in North Cyprus, you can't beat Karaoglanoglu. It's situated on the water's edge, where toddlers can paddle safely, and you romantic types can sigh at the sunsets at Kervansaray Beach. Some of the top North Cyprus restaurants can be found in Karaoglanoglu, so make sure you take the opportunity to dine out!

Edremit is a little village with big views. Halfway up the mountain road to Karmi (Karaman), any property in Edremit will have spectacular views across the countryside and to the sparkling sea beyond. You can enjoy a morning at the beach and within ten minutes be back on your villa balcony, enjoying the cooling mountain breeze with a glass of wine!

Karmi village is definitely worth a peek, having been restored to its former glory after being badly damaged in the unrest of 1974. Here, the original houses have been lovingly restored by foreigners, and the rooftop gardens they created make the village seem like one enormous flower market! The mountain road ends at Karmi, with the mighty remains of St Hilarion Castle above you, with civilization at your feet being only ten minutes away.

Alsancak is extremely popular with the Brits who come to live in North Cyprus, combining all the amenities you need with the feel of an authentic Cypriot village. Situated in the foothills of the West Kyrenian mountain range, Alsancak gets plenty of sun but also those cooling mountain breezes, so you're never too uncomfortable in the heat. Several great beaches are just a short drive down the hill, and the local restaurants are excellent, serving everything from French, Italian and Turkish cuisine to fish and chips!

Lapta is famous for its gushing water that flows from the rocks to irrigate the celebrated lemon groves around the old town, whose terraced streets sit on the mountainside. Most facilities and amenities are actually not in the old town but on the coast, around the area of the Roman town of Lambousa. Here, the emphasis is on water sports, from sailing, windsurfing, and water-skiing, so Lapta is perfect for sun worshippers, adventure seekers and even those who prefer the quiet life.

A villa in Karsiyaka is all about peace and quiet. Here, the kebabs from the local butcher are delicious and a great idea! At this end of the northern coast, you can explore the historical western end of North Cyprus, including the Persian palace at Vuni, and Roman remains at Lapta.