Latchi to the Akamas on Foot: A Free Coastal Day

The Route: Latchi Harbour to the Akamas Edge

Start at Latchi harbour, where the fishing boats unload and the smell of grilled octopus drifts from the tavernas. Head west along the coast on the E713; the road soon narrows and the last buildings give way to scrub and carob trees. In about 20 minutes you reach the trailhead for the Akamas, marked by a sign for the Aphrodite Trail. The path is well-trodden but rocky, so wear sturdy shoes. The walk to the famous Aphrodite's Baths takes roughly 40 minutes from Latchi, following the coastal path that skirts the edge of the Akamas. Along the way, you'll pass small coves and get views across Chrysochou Bay to the Troodos foothills.

The route to the Akamas tip is best done early in the morning, especially in July and August when the heat is intense by 10am. April, May, October and November are ideal: the wildflowers are out in spring, and the sea is still warm enough for a swim in autumn. The path is exposed, so carry water and sun protection. There are no facilities after Latchi, so pack snacks. The walk is free; the only cost is your time and a bottle of water. For a shorter option, drive to the Baths of Aphrodite car park and walk from there. But the Latchi start gives you a full day of coast and countryside.

What You'll See: From Aphrodite's Baths to Fontana Amorosa

The Baths of Aphrodite are a small grotto with a fig tree and a spring, surrounded by lush vegetation. It's a popular stop for tour buses, so arrive before 10am to avoid the crowds. From there, the Aphrodite Trail continues along the coast towards Fontana Amorosa, a natural spring that supposedly gave the goddess her beauty. The path is narrow in places, with a few steep sections, but the views are worth it. About 30 minutes beyond the baths, you reach a rocky outcrop with panoramic views of the Akamas peninsula and the distant Troodos mountains. This is a good spot for a picnic.

Continue on to Fontana Amorosa, where the trail meets a dirt road. The spring itself is a small pool, often dry in summer, but the surrounding area is peaceful. From here, you can retrace your steps or arrange a pickup. The full walk from Latchi to Fontana Amorosa and back is about 10 kilometres and takes 4 to 5 hours at a leisurely pace. If you're feeling energetic, you can extend to the Akamas tip, but that adds another 2 hours and the terrain becomes rougher. I'd suggest turning back at Fontana Amorosa unless you're an experienced hiker. The return leg is easier, with the sea on your left and the afternoon sun behind you.

Where to Stay: Latchi vs Polis vs Paphos

Latchi itself has a handful of hotels and apartments, mostly along the main road. They're convenient for an early start, but the village is quiet in the evening. Polis Chrysochous, a 10-minute drive east, has more choice: from budget studios to mid-range hotels, and a lively square with tavernas. For a wider range, Paphos is 45 minutes away by car, with everything from luxury resorts to boutique guesthouses. If you're relying on public transport, buses run from Polis to Latchi, but they're infrequent. A car gives you flexibility. For a two-night stay, I'd book a small hotel in Polis and drive to Latchi for the walk. Polis has more atmosphere and better value.

Camping is an option at the Aphrodite Beach campsite near Polis, but it's basic. For a comfortable base, look at hotels in Polis Chrysochous or Latchi. The Anassa hotel near Latchi is a luxurious choice, but it's expensive. Mid-range options include the Souli Beach Hotel in Latchi and the Marion Hotel in Polis. For budget travellers, the Polis Camping site is cheap, but facilities are limited. Book ahead in July and August, when the area fills with Cypriot and European holidaymakers. The shoulder months offer better deals and fewer crowds. Wherever you stay, check that your hotel has parking if you're driving, as street parking in Latchi can be tight.

Practicalities: Timing, Transport and What to Skip

The best months for this walk are April to June and September to November. July and August are too hot for a long hike unless you start at sunrise. The path is partly shaded by carob and olive trees, but there are exposed sections. Bring at least 2 litres of water per person. There are no shops after Latchi, so buy supplies at the mini-market near the harbour. The walk is free, but you'll need money for parking (around €2-3 at the Baths of Aphrodite car park) and a post-walk beer. Skip the organized boat trips to the Blue Lagoon if you want to avoid crowds; the walk offers a quieter experience. Also, don't bother with the donkey rides at the Akamas; they're a controversial tourist attraction.

To get to Latchi, take the B7 from Paphos to Polis, then the E713 to Latchi. The drive from Paphos takes about 50 minutes. From Larnaca, it's a 2-hour drive. There are buses from Paphos to Polis, but they don't run frequently. A car is the most practical option. If you're staying in Paphos, consider an overnight in Polis to avoid a long day trip. The roads are winding but well-maintained. For an early start, leave Paphos by 7am. After the walk, reward yourself with a seafood lunch at one of the harbour tavernas in Latchi; they're pricier than in Polis but the setting is hard to beat. Book your hotel in Polis or Latchi through our site to support local businesses.