Fivefinger (Beshparmak) Mountains

Five Finger Mountains

The Kyrenia Mountains looking down at the island from its glorious heights is also known as the Five Fingers Mountains due to its 5 raised sections, can be seen along all of the Kyrenia coastline as it is parallel to it along a 120km course. The legend behind the eccentric naming of the castle dates right back to the Byzantine periods where the Byzantine hero named Dighenis jumped on the island of Cyprus from Asia Minor in order to escape the Arabs, and in doing so, leaving the markings of his fingers on the Kyrenia Mountains, known as Beşparmak Mountains by the Turkish Cypriots.
Hiking in North Cyprus

For some tough exercise and exploration, start making your way towards the Kyrenia Mountains, where you are almost guaranteed the scenery, wildlife and fresh air all by yourself. A great place to get that peace and quiet you’ve been craving! Almost all your senses quiver in excitement when spring approaches as there are breath taking mountain tops of wildflowers to see, the sweet smells pf the flowers to absorb, the calming singing of the birds to listen to and the warm heat and gentle breeze to feel on your skin. Allthought the autumn season may be better for those who do not like long hikes in high temperatures.
Kyrenia Mountain Castles

The mountains of Kyrenia have always come to the rescue for the inhabitants of the island as they were used as a tool of defence against foreign enemies. There are not only spectacular views to be admired from the high heights of the mountains but also hidden castles amongst the trees, such as the crusader castle of Buffavento. Make sure you get your hiking shoes at the ready as the route leading to the Buffavento Castle is steep and tiresome. Don’t let this put you off as you shall certainly collect the reward of your efforts when you look down upon the unbeatable views from a height of 3,084 feet.

Another castle waiting to be discovered by you within the Kyrenia castle is the Kantara Castle. The location of this ancient castle and the forest station situated nearby makes for a great picnic and barbeque occasion with your friends and family during a sunny day.
Kyrenia Mountain Castles and Monasteries

The mountains of Kyrenia are jam packed with ancient monasteries that have stood the test of time. The mountains were an ideal and practical stopping point for the Armenian pilgrims who were making there way to the Holy Land dating right back to the 15th century until 1974. There is no doubt that the 12th century Byzantine monastery of Antifonitis at Esentepe was once a ravishingly beautiful structure, but sadly due to vandalism it has lost some of its beauty.

Northern Cyprus hiking tours of the Kyrenia Mountains

What better way to get to know the ins and outs of the Kyrenia Mountain than joining a hiking tour with a knowledgeable guide introducing you to the beauty of the mountains? You may participate by getting in touch with the “Association of Mountaineering”, who meet every Sunday during winter at 7:30 in Kyrenia. There is no better way to start off a Sunday than with a brisk walk while you take in the fresh mountain air.
Horse Riding in the North Cyprus Five Finger Mountains

If you prefer someone else do the hard work for you instead, horseriding will be just the thing you are seeking. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner as the Catalköy Riding Club offers lessons and shows you how to manage the gentle natured horses. They also offer treks through the green mountains where you also get to visit historic monuments, although it is best you get used to riding a horse by taking a few lessons first. You will always be in the safest of hands as your well trained instructors help you along the way. Hard hats are also a strict requirement
Bird Watching in the Five Finger Mountains

There is a rich variety of bird species in the Kyrenia Mountains, and it is possible to spot different species of birds every time you go bird watching, especially in the Forest Station region. You should reconsider bird watching on Sundays between the months October and February as this is the hunting season.
North Cyprus off road

If you don’t think your hire care will be able to handle the bumpy dirt tracks on the mountains, then you should look in to hiring a 4×4 jeep.
Paragliding in North Cyprus

For an exciting day, head out to the St Hilarion Castle area with your paragliding company of choice to enjoy the view of Kyrenia from an angle you have never looked from before!