Aetofolies Gorge
Sheep
You normally see goats in Cyprus, but in this instance, there was a flock of sheep far below us. I was a bit concerned that they might get startled by the drone, so I kept it far from their gaze.
Aetofolies Rockscape
So what did that sign we saw have to say about the gorge? Let's find out while we look at some more pictures...
Polis Coast
Geology
The gorge was formed from the weathering and erosion of rich in calcium carbonate rocks of Tera Member of the Pachna Formation, such as chalks and reef and grain-supported limestones, by the action of the water of Stenis' river for hundreds of thousands of years.
More Drone Shots
Vegetation and Flora
The vegetation of the area is characterised by maquis, consisting mainly of terebinth (Pistacia terebinthus), carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua), kermes oak (Quercus coccifera subsp. calliprinos), olive tree (Olea europaea), thorny broom (Calycotome villosa), thorny gorse (Genista fasselata), and phrygana dominated by thyme (Thymbra capitata) and prickly burnet (Sarcopoterium spinosum). Chasmophitic vegetation, with Ptilostemoh chamaepeuce subsp. cyprius and caper (Capparis spinosa), occurs locally on the steep cliffs of the gorge, whereas on north facing sides there are small groups of cypress trees (Cupressus sempervirens). The streambed is dominated by reed-beds (Phramites australis and Arundo donax), small oak woodlands (Quercus infetoria subsp. vereris) and, locally, riparian vegetation with oriental plane (Platanus orientalis), oleander (Nerium oleander) and white willow (Salx alba). In the surrounding area, in addition to cultivations, there are pine forests (Pinus brutia), while in valleys with deep soils there are oak woodlands (Quercus infectoria subsp. vereris).
The area hosts a rich flora including 17 endemic species, the most important of which are Bosea cypria and Cyprus cyclmen (Cyclamen cyprium), the National Plant of Cyprus.
Distant Evretou Reservoir
Looking the other way, you can just make out Evretou Reservoir in the distance.
Anyway, back to the sign...
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Spring is in The Air!
Yesterday we took a walk out across the Akamas, above Avakas Gorge (which deserves a blog article of its own). Spring was definitely in the air, and the flowers were blooming. We took a few shots to share.
Evretou Dam
Ever since we explored the abandoned villages of Evretou and Trimithousa, we have been meaning to return and have a look at the rest of the reservoir. A chance wrong turn gave us just the opportunity we needed, so off we went. It took us a few visits to get the full picture of the reservoir, but we saw some lovely scenery along the way...Related Pages
MapAetofolies Gorge
Some people say nothing is open in Cyprus. They are forgetting the countryside, which never closes. And with the easing of restrictions you can now go out and appreciate places like this again, provided you respect the rules. It is worth the journey as well, as you shall see...
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eBookCyprus Road Trip 01: the Kathikas - Panagia Loop
Let me take you on a journey around the region of Paphos, Cyprus. Starting at Paphos itself, we travel to Akoursos, then Kathikas, Kritou Terra and Simou. We continue past Lasa and Kannaviou, before taking in the delights of Panagia. Getting a bit more adventurous, we visit the abandoned villages of Statos and Agios Fotios, before passing through Choulou, Letymbou and Polemi, and rejoining the main Paphos - Polis road.
The route is suitable for all types of vehicle, and requires no off-roading. The guide contains about 130 photographs including shots of all the road signs you need to pay attention to, as well as some of the highlights you may experience along the way.
There are also several maps which will help you keep your bearings.
You can do this journey in a day, or you can break it up into chunks. You can also do it in reverse, to get some completely different views. It is entirely up to you.
