Cyprus
Nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean. The sun drenched island has been at the crossroads of world events for centuries. Roman, Byzantine, Greek and British influences have all had a bearing on life in Cyprus. This has led to an island with a rich and diverse historical and architectural heritage. The warm welcome here plus the unhurried pace of daily life makes Cyprus an instant favourite of anyone who goes there. The island is a real paradise for botanists, painters, photographers, sailors, walking and biking enthusiasts, art lovers, geologists and, of course, horse riders. Horse riding through this peaceful landscape which is dominated by fields and hills and enjoying the hospitality of the Cypriots is a very wonderful experience.
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The island is a fascinating land of contrasts. It has some of the most sophisticated cities in the region and yet a short distance away you can feel as if you have stepped back into a previous century as village life continues unspoilt by the hustle and bustle of modern life. Your ride will take you through some of these quiet villages. Cyprus enjoys the benefits of the Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers, short winters and little rain. The temperature in summer reaches 30-35C while winter is mild so horse riding is enjoyable all year around.
Cyprus is a paradise for botanists with more than 1920 wild flowers out of which 140 are endemic. Considering that the total number of wild flowers in Europe are no more than 2900, the island of Cyprus is second to none for its flora. It is also a main route for migrating birds with more than 300 species migrating in Autumn and Spring. You may spot the rare and protected eagle, the griffon vulture, the colourful hoopoe, the nightingale and the Cyprus mouflon from the back of a horse. For riders and hikers there are hundreds of kilometres of trails in the purest Mediterranean air. Discover picturesque landscapes, green forests with endemic plant species, historical bridges, Byzantine churches, traditional villages and local cuisine.
Riding through the citrus groves of orange, lemon and grapefuit and you know it is time to relax. Olive and carob trees thrive in the countryside and the mountains are covered with sweet-smelling pines while the coastline offers bushes of acacia and eucalyptus. The landscape is ideal for goats and sheep and riders are often delighted to see flocks being shepherded along peaceful by-ways. Explore this wonderful island on horseback and you will discover its hidden beauty.