Pentadaktylos Range Viewpoints
Majestic limestone mountains with ancient castles, offering dramatic views and a rich historical tapestry.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, clearer skies
Pentadaktylos Range Viewpoints
Best Time
Cooler temps, clearer skies

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majestic limestone mountains with ancient castles, offering dramatic views and a rich historical tapestry.
"Hiking, history and the Mediterranean views. When you get tired of the lovely beaches, go see this site."
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for exploring castles and rocky terrain. Flip-flops are a no-go!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Especially crucial in summer; services are limited. Stay hydrated!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St. Hilarion Castle
Northern slopes
A breathtaking medieval castle perched high, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into history.

Buffavento Castle
Central peaks
Explore the ruins of this ancient castle, a testament to Byzantine and Lusignan eras, with stunning vistas.

Kormakitis – Vasilia Road Viewpoint
Northern slopes
A key viewpoint offering incredible vistas, often cited as a prime spot for capturing the range's grandeur.

Northern Cyprus Flag
Southern slopes
A massive flag painted on the mountainside, a prominent landmark visible from afar.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Views & Comfort
Respecting Nature & History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Anybody knows the name of the peak?
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for exploring castles and rocky terrain. Flip-flops are a no-go!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Especially crucial in summer; services are limited. Stay hydrated!
Cyprus, Kyrenia Mountains
I have a photo (see below) of my family in front of this mountain (Pentadaktylos Peak). I would love to learn some more history of this mountain (apparantly my family use to own the sone of the area before it was taken). I don't know much, any help will be helpful
🚗 Easy Road Access
Accessible via main highway, great for a scenic drive.
🗺️ Explore Castle Ruins
Rich history and stunning views await at St. Hilarion and Buffavento.
Hello, I made a map of the island of Cyprus. Used tools: QGIS, Blender & Photoshop. I apologize in advance if some cities or other texts are in the wrong place :)
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for exploring castles and rocky terrain. Flip-flops are a no-go!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Especially crucial in summer; services are limited. Stay hydrated!
🚗 Easy Road Access
Accessible via main highway, great for a scenic drive.
🗺️ Explore Castle Ruins
Rich history and stunning views await at St. Hilarion and Buffavento.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Help keep picnic spots clean by packing out all your trash.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Pentadaktylos Range for its stunning natural beauty, historic castles, and breathtaking panoramic views. The scenic drives and opportunities for hiking are highly appreciated. However, some note issues with litter in picnic areas and the intense summer heat, recommending visits during cooler seasons.
"I didn't went exactly to the mountain I went to a place for picnics called Boğaz Piknik Alani .. i loved the vibes ✨"
Dina Al Miari
". A wonderful experience from start to finish. Will definitely come back."
beshoy ac
"Interesting place to have picnics and barbecue but people leave their garbage often .. Garbage everywhere and little care of belediye to clean ."
amal mm
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pentadaktylos Range is easily accessible by car from the main highway. Many viewpoints and castle access roads are well-marked. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the various spots at your own pace.
Public transport options are limited for reaching specific viewpoints and castles within the range. It's best to arrange private transport or rent a car for a flexible visit.
A GPS or a good map is helpful. Roads can be winding, especially to the castles. Consider downloading offline maps as cell service can be spotty in some areas.
While not always readily available on-site, you can arrange for guides in advance, especially for historical sites like the castles. Otherwise, research beforehand or use online resources.
You can drive to the base of many castles and to designated viewpoints. However, the final ascent to some castle ruins may involve hiking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to most viewpoints and the natural landscape of the Pentadaktylos Range is free. However, there might be entrance fees for specific historical sites like St. Hilarion Castle.
Opening hours for St. Hilarion Castle typically vary by season. It's advisable to check the latest official information before your visit, as they can change.
Designated picnic areas within the range are generally free to use. However, visitors are encouraged to practice 'leave no trace' principles and take their rubbish with them.
Castles like St. Hilarion and Buffavento have specific operating hours, usually during daylight. It's best to visit during these times to fully explore them.
The giant flag painted on the mountainside is a landmark visible from many points and does not have an associated entry fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic drives, hiking, exploring historic castles, photography, and picnicking. The range offers a mix of natural beauty and historical exploration.
Hiking difficulty varies. Trails to castles can be steep and rocky, requiring good footwear. Easier walking paths are also available in some areas.
Comfortable clothing and sturdy, grippy shoes are essential, especially if you plan to hike or explore castle ruins. Bring sun protection and a hat.
Facilities are sparse, especially at higher altitudes and remote viewpoints. Some picnic areas might have basic amenities, but it's best to be prepared.
The Kormakitis – Vasilia road offers stunning views. The areas around St. Hilarion and Buffavento castles also provide breathtaking panoramas of the landscape and coastline.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer the most dramatic light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing castle details.
St. Hilarion Castle with its dramatic setting, the winding roads, panoramic vistas from the peaks, and the iconic Northern Cyprus flag are all highly photogenic.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive landscapes, and a telephoto lens for distant details.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be mindful of any specific signage within historical sites or military areas.
Expect stunning mountain vistas, ancient castle architecture, sweeping coastal views, and unique shots of the painted flag.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Picnic areas are available, making it a great spot for a family outing. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are limited. The scenic drives themselves can be enjoyable, with opportunities to point out interesting sights like the large painted flag. Visiting during the cooler months will make the experience more comfortable for everyone.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
Beyond the castles, there are opportunities for nature walks amidst the Mediterranean flora. Always wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy, grippy shoes, and carry ample water, especially during warmer months. The cooler seasons are ideal for longer treks, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the range.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Castles
When exploring these castles, wear sturdy footwear as the paths can be steep and uneven. Imagine the sentinels who once guarded these heights, watching over the land and sea. While official guides might not always be present, researching their history beforehand enhances the visit. Many visitors find that using online resources like Google can provide ample historical context.
These castles are not just ruins; they are windows into Cyprus's past, offering a dramatic contrast to the island's beautiful beaches. The effort to reach them is rewarded with unforgettable sights and a deep appreciation for the region's heritage.
Scenic Drives and Viewpoints
Designated viewpoints provide perfect spots to pause, take photos, and soak in the scenery. The iconic giant flag of Northern Cyprus, painted onto the mountainside, is a prominent landmark visible from many vantage points, adding a unique visual element to the landscape.
For those who enjoy a leisurely drive, the range offers a welcome escape from the coastal heat. Remember to bring your camera and perhaps a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated spots, but always remember to pack out your trash to preserve the natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit