Cyprus tourism starts year with legendary treasure hunt

The Tourism Deputy Ministry and the Department of Forests organise a treasure hunt for hikers in the forest of Paphos on January 29.

The initiative, a Deputy Ministry press release says, takes place in the framework of implementing the national tourism strategy 2030 and the innovative project Heartland of Legends which aims to promote long distance hiking and sustainable nature experiences.

Hikers will be able to use two shelters which have been renovated and will also offer accommodation.

Long distance hikers will be able to hike from Stavros tis Psokas until Livadi during daylight covering a distance of about 15kms to reach the two shelters where they will be able to spend the night.

Much like similar structures abroad the shelters offer protection from the elements but do not include luxuries such as electricity, mattresses etc.

The old trail connecting Stavros tis Psokas with Livadi is one which had been previously used by pilgrims, locals and old forest rangers until the mid 20th century, and has recently been located and enlarged by the Department of Forests, the press release says.

More older trails offering the choice of more hikes have also been recently opened up.

Interested parties may find more information at heartlandoflegends.com/stays-in-nature-treasurehunt/.