Athalassa National Forest Park
A lush woodland reserve near Nicosia, featuring a serene lake, botanical garden, and trails for walking and cycling.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful nature, fewer people
Athalassa National Forest Park
Best Time
Peaceful nature, fewer people

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lush woodland reserve near Nicosia, featuring a serene lake, botanical garden, and trails for walking and cycling.
"A beautiful nature reserve, you'd never know you were in Cyprus."
🚶♀️ Walk or Cycle the Trails
Explore the park's extensive network of paths. Great for a relaxed stroll or an invigorating trail run. :athletic_shoe:
🦆 Visit the Lake Area
Don't miss the lake for birdwatching and enjoying sunset views. You might spot turtles too! :duck:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Athalassa Lake
Central area of the park
A serene lake teeming with ducks, turtles, and birdlife. Perfect for peaceful moments and sunset views.

Nature Trails
Throughout the park
Winding paths through lush greenery, ideal for walking, running, and cycling. Enjoy the shade and tranquility.

Botanical Garden
Specific section within the park
Discover a variety of local flora in this well-maintained garden, offering a colorful and educational experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Cycle the Trails
Explore the park's extensive network of paths. Great for a relaxed stroll or an invigorating trail run. :athletic_shoe:
🦆 Visit the Lake Area
Don't miss the lake for birdwatching and enjoying sunset views. You might spot turtles too! :duck:
🔦 Evening Visits
Be aware of limited lighting after dark. Bring a flashlight for navigating safely. :flashlight:
🧺 Picnic Spots
Plenty of picnic tables available for a leisurely meal amidst nature. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Cycle the Trails
Explore the park's extensive network of paths. Great for a relaxed stroll or an invigorating trail run. :athletic_shoe:
🦆 Visit the Lake Area
Don't miss the lake for birdwatching and enjoying sunset views. You might spot turtles too! :duck:
🔦 Evening Visits
Be aware of limited lighting after dark. Bring a flashlight for navigating safely. :flashlight:
🧺 Picnic Spots
Plenty of picnic tables available for a leisurely meal amidst nature. :sandwich:
🐈 Friendly Felines
You might encounter friendly cats roaming the park. They add to the charm! :cat:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Athalassa National Forest Park for its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekdays. The lake, wildlife, and extensive trails for walking and cycling are major highlights. Some note that lighting can be an issue at night, and suggest bringing flashlights for evening visits.
"Very lovely park and I recommend going there at the duck area where is the lake that I posted on the photos and see the view when the sun sets. The only bad thing I can say about the park is that it needs more lighting at night cause at some point it's pitch black and you can move around only with flashlights until you reach the cafeteria."
Thenia V
"Visited Athalassa National Forest Park, and the nature is absolutely stunning! There are hardly any people on weekdays, making it perfect for a peaceful retreat. Met some friendly cats and amusing ducks, including families with ducklings. It’s a great spot to relax, observe birds, and enjoy the tranquility."
Алексей Гуз
"Great for walking, running and biking.
You can see the whole city at the top or enjoy the pond."
Alex
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Athalassa National Forest Park is easily accessible from Nicosia. Many visitors opt for a taxi or their own vehicle, as it's a short drive from the city center. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes beforehand is advisable. The park is also a popular spot for running and cycling, with some suggesting it as a good route from nearby areas.
Yes, there are parking areas available within the park, though they can fill up on busy weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended if you're driving.
Absolutely! The park is very popular with cyclists, and there are dedicated paths. It's a great destination for a cycling trip from Nicosia.
While it's a fantastic day trip from Nicosia, it's a bit further for a casual day trip from cities like Limassol or Paphos. However, if you're in the region, it's definitely worth the visit.
The park is best explored on foot or by bicycle. The trails are well-maintained and offer diverse scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Athalassa National Forest Park is generally free to enter, making it an accessible natural escape for everyone.
The park is typically open from early morning until evening. It's a public space, so hours are generally generous, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific seasonal changes.
There's no need to book tickets in advance as entry is free. You can visit spontaneously.
While the park is open for extended hours, it's advisable to be mindful of daylight, especially for safety reasons, as some areas can be poorly lit at night.
Some main paths are relatively flat and accessible, but the natural terrain can be challenging in certain areas. It's best to stick to the main routes for easier navigation.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park is a haven for birdlife, with many species observed, including large birds like eagles or falcons. You'll also find ducks on the lake and friendly cats roaming the grounds. Turtles have also been spotted in the lake.
Yes, Athalassa National Forest Park offers numerous picnic tables scattered throughout, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a relaxed lunch outdoors.
Popular activities include walking, running, cycling, birdwatching, and picnicking. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll or a more active workout.
While the park is open, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours. Some areas lack lighting, making navigation difficult and potentially unsafe after dark.
Yes, there is a playground within the park, making it a family-friendly destination for those with younger children.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a Cafe Nero located within the park, offering refreshments and a place to rest.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged, especially if you plan on picnicking. There are many designated picnic areas.
The Cafe Nero typically offers coffee, snacks, and light meals. It's a convenient spot for a quick bite or a refreshing drink.
While the park has its own cafe, you'll find a wider variety of dining options in the nearby areas of Nicosia. It's best to venture into the city for more extensive choices.
The park has picnic tables, but dedicated barbecue facilities are not commonly mentioned. It's best to stick to picnics to avoid any issues.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake area, especially during sunset, offers stunning photographic opportunities. The diverse flora in the botanical garden and the winding trails also make for beautiful shots.
Yes, with its abundant birdlife, the park is an excellent location for bird photography. Early mornings are particularly good for spotting and capturing various species.
Late afternoons, during the golden hour, provide beautiful lighting for landscape and wildlife photography. Early mornings are also great for softer light and fewer crowds.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
The lake with its ducks and turtles is a popular subject. The variety of trees and wildflowers also provides picturesque backdrops throughout the park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏃♀️ Runners and Cyclists
🐦 Birdwatchers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Athalassa
When exploring, remember to wear comfortable footwear, as some paths can be uneven. The park's natural beauty is a significant draw, with lush greenery and the tranquil lake providing picturesque backdrops. It's a place where you can truly escape the urban bustle and enjoy the simple pleasures of being outdoors. Consider bringing a map or using a navigation app if you plan to explore deeper into the park's less-traveled areas.
Wildlife Encounters at Athalassa
Beyond the birds and aquatic life, the park is also home to a population of friendly cats that are often seen roaming the grounds. These felines add a unique charm to the park experience for many visitors. The presence of diverse wildlife makes Athalassa a rewarding destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid feeding the animals to maintain their natural behaviors.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips
Amenities like picnic tables are plentiful, making it a great spot for a family outing or a relaxed lunch. While there's a Cafe Nero within the park for refreshments, it's always wise to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan on extended exploration. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the trails, and if you're visiting during warmer months, sun protection is highly recommended.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit