Undiscovered Northern Cyprus

TOUR CODE: 29460 GRADE: D/L

SEPTEMBER 2016

09 Sep - 18 Sep

10 day duration

UNDISCOVERED NORTHERN CYPRUS

Explore the wonder and beauty of an unspoilt area of North Cyprus

TOUR DESCRIPTION

This information is in addition to our General Information Booklet, which is enclosed.

Our holiday base is on the north coast of Cyprus in an area long considered the most beautiful part of the island. A wonderful place to visit with much to enjoy, such as its fascinating history, the gothic architecture, stunning natural beauty, untouched beaches and traditional village life.

We spend time in the Kyrenian Mountain range, a landscape of majestic limestone peaks on which perch a number of impressive medieval castles. The rolling green hills look simply stunning when the flowers are in full bloom. We will explore the slopes and enjoy the maritime coastal views from high vantage points. Away from the immediate environs of Kyrenia with its picturesque harbour and Venetian castle, we can also visit the serene Bellapais Abbey with its fine Gothic architecture and Buffavento Castle. Trips further afield to the medieval walled city of Famagusta and to the magnificent ancient ruins of Salamis, or the capital Nicosia, may be possible.

Our hotel is situated in the centre of Kyrenia and a short walk to the beautiful harbour.

Our remaining days will be spent in the unspoilt area of Karpassa, the long isolated peninsula, which points out from the north east of Cyprus and gives the island its distinctive “pan handle” like shape.

From this end of Cyprus you can get to Kantara Castle, the easternmost of the three castles (some of which we should have already visited earlier in the week) sitting on top of the North Cyprus Mountains. However, the mountains soon give way to an undulating, remote but fertile landscape, displaying a rich and sometimes unique flora. The area is still home to some remote Greek communities, is rich in remote archaeological sites and bounded by sandy beaches and warm seas. It is home to wild donkeys, who roam around at liberty in the Karpaz National Park.

We will enjoy some stunning coastal walks, and explore the Kucukerenkoy nature reserve with its wonderful display for wild flowers and orchids. One walk takes us to Incirli Cave so our itinerary offers great variety.

There are some great benefits to visiting this part of Cyprus: being out of the Eurozone gives us better value for our pound, we can enjoy delicious Turkish cuisine and spend time in the limestone mountains rich in botanical beauty – some of which is indigenous to this part of Cyprus.

A local guide will accompany us on our walks along with our Ramblers Worldwide leader.

Day: Overnight Daily itinerary: Meals: accommodation: Fly London Heathrow via Istanbul to Ercan 1: Airport. On arrival transfer by road to our hotel D in Kyrenia for 5 nights’. Kyrenia We explore the Kyrenia region with our 2 – 5: Ramblers Worldwide Holidays leader, with a B,L,D varied walking and sightseeing programme. Transfer by road to the Karpaz region, we will stop en-route at Kantara Castle, where we will 6 enjoy a walk up to this marvellous hilltop castle. B,L,D Bogaz We then continue on to our hotel in Bogaz for 4 Karpaz nights’. We explore the Karpaz region with our Ramblers 7-9 Worldwide leader, with a varied walking and B,L,D sightseeing programme. Transfer by road to Ercan Airport for check-in 10: Departure and return flight to London Heathrow via B Istanbul.

D (Dinner) B (Breakfast)

HOLIDAY GRADE & WALKING PROGRAMME

This holiday has been graded D/L

Our 'D' grade walking is on easy or moderate terrain, with walking times averaging less than 5 hours per day, although one or two days may be a little more energetic. Walking on paths, tracks and quiet roads, we will experience much of the beautiful countryside and see many of the places of interest that Northern Cyprus has to offer. The mountain ridge tracks are hard to surpass with their variety of panoramic views, and even in the winter months there are often wild flowers to discover.

This holiday has a 'Lifestyle' element which in addition to great walking we’ll visit the local sites of interest and absorb the natural beauty of our surroundings. We’ll also immerse ourselves in the local culture and wherever possible sample the local cuisine and wines.

An example of some of the walks that may be included in our Kyrenia walking programme are as follows:

KORUCAM - LAPTA – We walk from Korucam Village, nestling in a valley and the only remaining Maronite (one of the largest Eastern-rite communities of the Roman Catholic Church) villages in Northern Cyprus. Once we arrive at Lapta we will observe a local family cooking “Corek” (an olive bread), which we will enjoy as part of our lunch. Ascent 60m / descent 80m; 12km (8 miles); 3½hrs

© Ramblers Worldwide Holidays 2015 13/10/15 V1 GS BUFFAVENTO CASTLE & BELLAPAIS- We will walk 5km to Buffavento castle and take time to explore the relics. We will then take a bus to Ozankoy, where we will walk up a crusader path to Bellapais, from here we will discover the village, including the monastery and Lawrence Durrells former house (from the book Bitter Lemon). Ascent 272m / descent 212m; 5km (3½ miles); 3½hrs / Bellapais Ascent / descent 115m; 5km (3½ miles.

ST HILARION CASTLE & NICOSIA –We will walk the gradual inclining path up to St Hilarion Castle, we will explore the castle with our local guide, before continuing on to Nicosia. We will explore the city sites and enjoy a typical Cypriot lunch. Ascent / descent little.

An example of some of the walks that may be included in our Karpaz walking programme are as follows:

APHENDRIA TO GOLDEN BEACH – This walk starts at the very north eastern tip of Cyprus and leads back to the north side of the peninsula. We will enjoy a lunch and wonderful sea views from Golden Beach before taking the bus to Apostolos Andreas Monastery. We are likely to see wild donkeys on this walk! Ascent 140m / descent 138m; 11km (7 miles) 4hrs

BUYUK KONUK AREA – First we will discover the village, built on cemetery belonging to the former ancient settlements, our guide will enlighten us with the intriguing history of the area. This village was also the first declared Eco-Agro tourism village, we will enjoy a walk around this unspoilt natural area. Ascent / descent 10m; 10km (6 ½ miles) 3½hrs

We intentionally do not include local transport costs or entrance fees in conjunction with the programme of walks on this holiday. Walks can be weather dependent or you may choose to take a day off from the group’s arrangements and this way you only pay for the activities you take part in. Travel costs by public and hired transport in conjunction with the programme of walks should not exceed £65 for the holiday. In addition there may also be the opportunity for optional local excursions which will be at additional expense.

Each evening, the leader will discuss with you the programme for the following day. If you do not wish to join the party, please let the leader know.

Please make sure that your insurance for this holiday covers you for guided walking below 2000m.

Please note that the estimation of local costs relating to this holiday is based on currency exchange rates valid in September 2015. Fluctuations in exchange rates since the publication of our brochure and this Holiday Information sheet may impact on this estimation of local costs; please check with your bank or currency provider prior to your holiday to enable you to plan your spending.

 We fly from London Heathrow to Ercan Airport via Istanbul and return with Turkish Airlines. Flights may be available from Manchester; please ask our reservation staff for more details.

 There might be some delay at the airport as we will have to wait for the London and Manchester flights to arrive before continuing on our transfer, and similarly on departure.

 Details of your baggage allowance will be confirmed in your travel documents, sent approximately 10 days prior to departure.

 Please note that most flights may only advertise the flight as arriving in one of the Turkish ports en route to arriving in North Cyprus and may not mention our final arrival point – Ercan airport. It would be a good idea to take note of the flight number and use this as a reference when locating the correct check-in point and for flight information.

 The transfer from Ercan Airport to the hotel takes about 40 minutes and is by road.

 The transfer from Hotel Bogaz to Ercan Airport takes about 1 hour and is by road.

 If you intend joining in Kyrenia and leaving in Bogaz, it is assumed, unless you have advised us otherwise, that you will meet and leave the party at the hotels. If this is not your intention, please let us know in writing at least 5 weeks before departure.

PASSPORTS & VISAS

Please refer to Section 2 of the enclosed General Information Booklet.

No visa is required for British or EU (European Union) citizens wishing to visit North Cyprus. The only requirement is a valid passport at the time of travel to North Cyprus. If you prefer not to have your passport stamped on arrival, you can ask at passport control for a separate piece of paper, which will be stamped instead.

Clients travelling to Ercan Airport via Istanbul may be required to leave the aircraft in Istanbul and must follow the transit signs for the flight to Ercan Airport in order not to go through passport control or pay the entry visa fee to enter Turkey. Alternatively you may be asked to remain on the same aircraft while it refuels, before continuing on to Ercan Airport.

Please note; Non British clients making their own travel arrangements from outside of the UK may incur visa charges on arrival.

It is a good idea to carry photocopies of the personal details pages of your passport. Should you lose your passport, this may assist with the issue of replacement documents and your return to the UK.

Passport, visa and health requirements can change at any time. It is your own responsibility to ensure that you inform yourself from a professionally qualified source on, and comply with, such

© Ramblers Worldwide Holidays 2015 13/10/15 V1 GS requirements. Advice on vaccinations is available from your GP, or can be obtained from the Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad (MASTA). In addition, general travel advice is available from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office at www.fco.gov.uk/travel.

LOCAL CURRENCY

Please refer to Section 2 of our General Information Booklet for details.

The local currency for this holiday is Turkish Lira. However, some merchants may accept payment in sterling or euro. Currency can be changed relatively easily at many exchange offices.

There are banks with ATM machines located in Kyrenia about 10 minute’s walk from the hotel. Local currency can be purchased at reception in the hotel. In Bogaz there is an ATM machine a short walk from the hotel.

ACCOMMODATION & MEALS

Accommodation in Kyrenia is in twin and single bedded rooms with shower and wc at the four star Hotel Pia Bella, situated a short walk from Kyrenia’s stunning harbour. Set amongst beautiful gardens; facilities include, an outdoor swimming pool, massage facilities, a café, bar and a pool bar.

Rooms are equipped with a TV, telephone, fridge/mini bar, air conditioning/heating, a kettle, and a safety deposit box. All rooms have a balcony. The electricity supply is 220V AC 50 Hz, the sockets are of the British three pin variety.

Hotel Pia Bella Iskenderun Caddesi no14 Tel: 0090 392 6505000 Kyrenia via Mersin Fax: 0090 392 6505040 10 Turkey e-mail: [email protected] North Cyprus Web: www.piabella.com

Accommodation in the Karpaz is in twin and single bedded rooms with shower and wc at the Exotic Hotel. The hotel is situated adjacent to the seafront, with either a pool or sea view. There is an outdoor pool a couple of bars and a wellness area. Bogaz harbour is a few metres from the hotel, where there are bars and restaurants.

Rooms are equipped with a TV, telephone, fridge/mini bar, air conditioning/heating, and a hair dryer. The electricity supply is 220V AC 50 Hz, the sockets are of the British three pin variety.

Exotic Hotel Tel: 0090 3923712881 Bogaz, Iskele Fax: 0090 3923713012 Turkey Mersin 10 Email: [email protected] North Cyprus Web: www.exotichotel.net

Breakfasts, lunches and dinners are included in the holiday charge; most dinners will be taken at the hotels with one meal in a local Tavern. Breakfasts are taken at the hotel. Lunches will be © Ramblers Worldwide Holidays 2015 13/10/15 V1 GS mainly be provided as picnics, or taken in a local café. On one day we will enjoy a cooking demonstration with a local family followed by lunch.

FOOD AND DRINK SAFETY

To ensure that you are less likely to suffer any sort of stomach upset on your holiday to North Cyprus, we think that it makes sense to take the following precautions with food and drink hygiene.

Drink only bottled water and also use this for cleaning your teeth. Make sure that the bottle cap is properly sealed before opening.

Please be sure that you observe high levels of personal hygiene and wash your hands thoroughly after visiting the toilet and, of course, before eating. We realise that many people buy fruit from markets whilst on holiday, but you should take just as much care here and wash (using bottled water) or peel the fruit before eating. We hope that by following these few simple rules, you will be better able to enjoy your holiday.

RESORT INFORMATION

Resort facilities in Kyrenia include:

 Local shops  Banks & ATM machines  Restaurants & Bars  Supermarkets  Medical facilities

In Bogaz there are a few bars and restaurants, a mini market and an ATM machine.

CLOTHING & EQUIPMENT

Cyprus has a typical Mediterranean climate. The spring season is generally mild but it can be cold and windy, particularly in the evenings. Lightweight clothing is recommended, with warmer clothes for the evenings or for when the sun temporarily vanishes. You may also find useful a small rucksack, lightweight bottle for drinking water, penknife (packed in suitcase), plate, some polythene bags, and a small first aid kit. We suggest you take insect repellent, a waterproof, swimsuit, a towel and beach shoes for protection on stony beaches and against sea urchins.

The following websites give an idea of the climate in this area: www.myweather2.com / www.bbc.co.uk/weather

© Ramblers Worldwide Holidays 2015 13/10/15 V1 GS Lightweight walking boots with good ankle support are recommended, as some paths can be rough and stony. A walking stick or 'ski-pole' may be useful on some of the descents (but packed in your suitcase).

We recommend that you wear your walking boots or pack them and some waterproofs in your hand luggage as in the unlikely event that your hold luggage is delayed, you will still be able to participate in the walking programme.

PERSONAL SAFETY

Please take sensible precautions like leaving your credit cards and passport in the hotel safe and avoiding displays of wealth such as wearing expensive jewellery or watches. Do not carry more cash on you than you will need for each day, and we recommend that a money belt is used.

MAPS & SUGGESTED READING

Maps and books about Northern Cyprus may be obtained before departure from specialist map sellers such as: Stanfords 12 – 14 Long Acre Covent Garden London WC2E 9LP Tel: 0207 836 1321 Fax: 0207 836 0189 E-mail: [email protected]

The Map Shop 15 High Street Upton upon Severn, Worcs WR8 0HJ Tel: 01684 593 146 Fax: 01684 594 559 Website: www.themapshop.co.uk E-mail: [email protected]

“The “Bradt” guide to North Cyprus provides very well-researched and interesting background reading for this holiday. Ramblers Worldwide Holidays have especially negotiated a 25% discount off the reccommended price of all Bradt guides for you as a thank you for your custom – so please go to the Bradt Guide website www.bradtguides.com and enter the code RWH25 when ordering to claim your discount.”

Further information can be found on the last page of our General Information Booklet.

Northern Cyprus - Eileen Davey. (Particularly informative and useful when visiting historical sites). Guide to North Cyprus - Diana Darke Walk and Eat in North Cyprus – Sunflower books (Brian and Eileen Anderson) © Ramblers Worldwide Holidays 2015 13/10/15 V1 GS Northern Cyprus - John & Margaret Goulding, Windrush Press Cyprus - AA Essential Explorer Cyprus - Thomas Cook's Travellers Bitter Lemons - Lawrence Durrell (1957)

Many local libraries now stock a selection of travel guides/books, which may offer you more information regarding the Island of Cyprus and the Kyrenia area. You may wish to contact the North Cyprus Tourist Office:

Tel: 020 20 7631 1930 Fax: 020 7462 9789 email: [email protected] website: www.go- northcyprus.com

Maps are also available from: www.kyreniamountaintrail.org

Please note that this Holiday Information sheet may be periodically updated and reissued.

In most cases any revisions will be minor and the overall nature of the holiday will be unchanged. Should we need to make a major change to the holiday arrangements between you booking your holiday and your date of travel we will notify you to specifically draw your attention to any significant change.

You may wish to review the latest version of the Holiday Information sheet online prior to travel.

PLEASE QUOTE YOUR HOLIDAY CODE AND BOOKING REFERENCE NUMBER IN ALL CORRESPONDENCE.

WE WISH YOU AN INTERESTING AND ENJOYABLE HOLIDAY AND WE WELCOME YOUR COMMENTS UPON YOUR RETURN.