Smigies Nature Trail
A rugged Akamas loop with sea views on both sides and the ghosts of old mines in the pines.
Starting from the Smigies picnic site above Neo Chorio, this circular trail in the Akamas peninsula comes in a short 2.5 km and a longer 6 km version. From a modest 273 m it rises to about 388 m, delivering coastal views west toward Lara Bay and east across Chrysochou Bay to Latsi and Polis. The longer loop threads past abandoned mining relics and old lime kilns hidden in the forest.
What you’ll see
- Two-coast panoramas over Lara and Chrysochou bays
- Abandoned mines, magnesium works and old kilns
- Piana fire lookout station on the longer loop
- Endemic thyme and Cyprus germander scrub
- Junctions with the Adonis and Pissouromoutti trails
The walk
From the shaded Smigies picnic site pick up the marked loop and climb gently through open pine and aromatic scrub, with the Akamas coastline unfolding first to the west and then to the east as you round the hill. Choose the short circuit for a quick taster or commit to the 6 km version, which passes rusting mine workings and stone kilns and brushes the Piana lookout before curling back. Watch for foxes, partridges and darting lizards, and combine it with the adjoining trails if you want a full Akamas day.
Getting there
Drive about 2.5 km up the dirt road from Neo Chorio to the Smigies picnic site; there is parking, shade and water at the trailhead. Get directions →
Good to know before you go
The Akamas tracks are rough and exposed, so wear proper shoes and carry water; a normal car reaches the picnic site but the surrounding tracks suit 4x4s.