In early November, I had the chance to disconnect from the hustle of everyday life and spend a weekend camping with some friends in the beautiful Akamas Forest near Paphos. The three-day trip was a much-needed break and a chance of spending some quality-time with my closest friends before leaving the country in December.
The weekend was filled with fresh air, good food, and the calming presence of nature, all made even better by the warm, cozy setting of the Aphrodite Family Eco Camping.
Aphrodite Camping is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Cypriot countryside. It is located in a beautiful, peaceful part of the Akamas Forest, which made it the perfect spot for a relaxing and comfortable retreat.
Our adventure began on Friday afternoon when we made our way from Larnaca, which was about a two-hour drive. After arriving at the campsite and settling in, we headed to a nearby village. There, we kicked off the weekend in a lovely tavern offering live music. We enjoyed a delicious meal, while exchanging jokes, and we let the soothing rhythm of the music add to the atmosphere of relaxation.
Saturday was a picture-perfect day. The weather was sunny and warm, a pleasant surprise for November. After sleeping in and a slow breakfast, some of us went hiking through the forest trails, while the rest of us enjoyed a slower pace – sitting outside, immersed in nature, reading books, and colouring while listening to a podcast. It was the ideal way to unwind.
For lunch, we discovered a quiet tavern tucked away with a stunning view over the valley. The food was exceptional, and the warmth of the owner’s hospitality made the experience even more special.
Later in the afternoon, the weather took a turn, and we experienced some rain and gusty winds. But rather than dampening our spirits, it added to the charm of the experience, as it set the scene for a cozy afternoon dedicated to reading, crocheting and listening to music. However, the best part of day was the evening, when we started joking about funny episodes we lived together over the year and Irene and I, both ESC volunteer at Hope for Children, ended up remembering meaningful moments we experienced both at the shelter and around the island, sharing thoughts and making plans to meet each other next year.
On Sunday, we enjoyed a relaxed brunch by the sea, where the breeze was fresh and crisp from the rain the night before, but the sun was still warm on our faces. It was the perfect ending to a weekend full of friendly games, laughter, and a sense of contentment that only spending time with people you are comfortable and feel safe with can give.
Reflecting on this trip, I realize how much I needed this time away – not just to recharge, but also to add to the list of beautiful experiences I’ve had this year. As my time in Cyprus draws to a close, this camping trip was a perfect way to end my time here on a peaceful, uplifting note. The breathtaking scenery, the calming presence of the nature, and the company of my friends, all combined to make this weekend unforgettable – I couldn’t have asked for a better way to spend those three days.
