Over The Top to Melanda

Scenic coastal walk to Melanda - satellite map

A Scenic Coastal Walk for Nature Lovers

If you are feeling energetic, this is a beautiful local walk to Melanda beach at Avdimou – the next bay to the east of Pissouri. Or drive as far as the road takes you, then choose a cross-country walking route from there.

The First Part of The Route

Our development – ‘Vineland Pissouri Bay’ is nestled at the base of a rocky cliff. If you head inland a little, then turn right at Ampelohori, you’ll find a road snaking up the hill to the top of the plateau (see map). On foot the climb is quite strenuous, as the ridge elevation tops 100 metres, so this is not something to be tackled in summer’s midday heat. No problem in a car, of course!

The pay off is some lovely views looking down into Pissouri Bay, and across to Cape Aspro on the opposite headland.

Over the top to Melanda route map

A Beach To Yourself

Once the tarmac road runs out, a variety of clearly defined vehicle tracks lead you eastwards cross-country. This is where you can leave your car and continue on foot. There are plenty of more direct routes, but we suggest following the cliff edge coastal path as shown on the satellite map, to take advantage of the fabulous seascape views.

Over the top to Melanda unmade track through fields

Hugging the coastline rewards you with a choice of deserted coves where you could enjoy the seclusion of your own tiny beach.

Over the top to Melanda clear waters

Stone and Crop Circles

A fascinating surprise was some circular artwork lovingly created on the cliff top.

We saw this pebble design and some traditional-looking crop circles in the tall spring grass.

Over the top to Melanda stone circle

All The Way to Melanda

If you keep going, (for an hour or so beyond the end of the paved road), eventually you’ll arrive at Melanda beach. Using a smart phone with Google maps set on satellite view can help you to navigate.

Near Melanda you cross into the British ‘Sovereign Base’ area – officially UK territory. Although development on this land is restricted, there are two permitted beach restaurants – Melanda Beach Restaurant specialising in fresh local fish dishes, and further along another favourite for traditional Cypriot fare – Kyrenia Beach Taverna.

Indulge in a leisurely lunch and a few drinks – you’ll thoroughly deserve it!

Over the top to Melanda Beach Restaurant

And if the prospect of walking back is too daunting, other options include a taxi or boat pickup… just remember to copy the numbers from the villa handbook into your phone before you set off.

Happy exploring!

This article was originally posted on our old website blog by Nikki 9/5/2017

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