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...