Karpass Peninsula

Almost 80 kilometers from one end to the other, this peninsula is perhaps the Mediterranean’s last piece of unspoiled tranquillity, where green and azure meets history.

With pine, cypress, and maquis trees covering hills that reach an altitude of about 1,000 meters, the Karpaz is also North Cyprus' nature reserve comprising a handsome backdrop to the serene sapphire blue of the gently caressing ocean. Escaping the last ice age, the island of Cyprus has managed to retain a substantial amount of biological diversity and the Karpas is home to much of this. Northern Cyprus has many endemic species - North Cyprus flora number about 1,600 (22 endemics) and there are 26 reptile and amphibian species, for most of whom the Karpas is the natural home. Not to mention innumerable insects, including many species of butterflies. Being also on one of the main migration routes of birds between Eastern Europe and Africa, each year approximately 300 species, amounting to millions of birds, use this route in early spring.

The surrounding waters have a wonderful clarity, with ample investigative opportunities for the budding snorkeller – those of a less intrepid nature may opt for a spot of fishing instead. Blessed with biodiversity so rich, the entire area has been rightfully deemed a national reserve.