Bellapais Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Village

Facts and practical information

Bellapais, located in the Girne region of Cyprus, is a charming village that offers visitors a glimpse into the island's rich history and stunning natural beauty. The village is best known for its picturesque Bellapais Abbey, a 13th century monastery that boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Visitors to Bellapais can wander through the narrow, cobbled streets lined with traditional stone houses and vibrant bougainvillea, immersing themselves in the village's timeless atmosphere. The local cafes and restaurants offer the perfect opportunity to relax and savor authentic Cypriot cuisine while taking in the tranquil ambiance of the village.

One of the highlights of a visit to Bellapais is exploring the historic Bellapais Abbey. The monastery's stunning architecture and serene courtyard provide a peaceful retreat, and the adjacent museum offers a fascinating look at the abbey's history. The abbey also hosts regular classical music concerts, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of the village.

For those seeking outdoor adventure, Bellapais is an ideal starting point for exploring the nearby hiking trails that wind through the Kyrenia Mountains. The trails offer panoramic views of the coastline and the opportunity to discover hidden gems such as the Bellapais Spring, a natural freshwater source that has been revered by locals for centuries.

In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Bellapais also serves as a gateway to the wider Girne region, where visitors can explore ancient castles, charming seaside towns, and pristine beaches. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, Bellapais offers a truly authentic and unforgettable experience for travelers looking to discover the timeless beauty of Cyprus.

Local name: Μπεϊλέρμπεϊ Elevation: 712 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 35°18'24"N, 33°21'20"E

Location

GirneCyprus

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Bellapais Top Attractions

Bellapais Attractions - What to See and Explore

Bellapais offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Bellapais Abbey, Panagia Apsinthiotissa, Bitter Lemons. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Steakhouse • Monastery • Gothic architecture
Bellapais Abbey
Nestled in the tranquil village of Bellapais, Cyprus, Bellapais Abbey stands as a majestic testament to the island's medieval history. This Gothic-style monastery, a serene relic surrounded by the beauty of Northern Cyprus, invites travelers to step back in time...
Monastery
Panagia Apsinthiotissa
Panagia Apsinthiotissa or Absinthiotissa is a Greek Orthodox monastery located at the southern foot of the Pentadaktylos range in the Republic of Cyprus. The nearest settlements are Sychari and Vouno. The site presently falls within the de facto Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in Girne District.
Memorial
Bitter Lemons
Bitter Lemons is an autobiographical work by writer Lawrence Durrell, describing the three years he spent on the island of Cyprus. The book was awarded the Duff Cooper Prize for 1957, the second year the prize was awarded.

Day trips

Bellapais – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Bellapais, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Olympus, Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque (Famagusta), Kykkos Monastery (Pedoulas).

38 milesSW
Winter sport, Ski area
Olympus
Nestled in the heart of the Troodos Mountains, Olympus, Cyprus offers a unique Mediterranean ski experience that contrasts the island's famed sun-kissed beaches. As the highest peak in Cyprus, Mount Olympus stands at an elevation of 1,952 meters and transforms into a...
35 milesE
Famed mosque with medieval architecture
Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, Famagusta
The Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, standing majestically within the city of Famagusta, Cyprus, is a testament to the city's rich historical tapestry. Formerly known as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the building was converted into a mosque following the Ottoman conquest...
41 milesSW
Tranquil monastery with Virgin Mary icon
Kykkos Monastery, Pedoulas
Nestled in the mountainous region of Marathasa Valley, the Kykkos Monastery stands as a spiritual beacon and a testament to Byzantine artistry in Cyprus. Located near the village of Pedoulas, this monastery is one of the wealthiest and most lavishly adorned monasteries...
4.2 miW
Forts and castles, Ruins, Historical place
St. Hilarion, Kyrenia
Perched high on the Kyrenia mountain range, overlooking the coastal city of Kyrenia in Cyprus, lies the majestic St. Hilarion Castle. This medieval fortress, with its fairy-tale-like appearance, is a relic of Cyprus's tumultuous past and a testament to the island's...
31 milesSE
Specialty museum, Museum, History museum
Pierides Museum, Larnaca
Nestled in the heart of Larnaca, Cyprus, the Pierides Museum stands as a beacon of Cypriot history and culture. This distinguished museum, housed in the beautiful 1825 colonial-style home of the Pierides family, offers visitors an unparalleled glimpse into the rich...