After you have walked around and explored Kyrenia’s picturesque harbour, photographed the colourful doors in one of the many narrow alleys, have been impressed by the culinary flavours of the local cuisine and been taken aback by the view from St. Hilarion Castle, then you will probably feel ready to explore more of the beautiful areas around Kyrenia. You should then be sure to visit the village of Çatalköy.
Çatalköy, whose name means “Fork Village”, is a beautiful area just ten minutes east of Kyrenia. Many expatriates have found their way there, where the environment and the relaxed atmosphere is almost spellbinding.
As in so many other places in North Cyprus, Çatalköy is also blessed with natural beauty. The air is fresh and clean, and is perfect for those who want to devote themselves to hiking and other physical activities. Both in the mountains and along the coast it is beautiful to walk and soak up the nature.
Cafes, bars and restaurants are plentiful, many of them are owned by Brits and other foreign residents who have chosen to make Çatalköy to their home. There are also many traditional cafes along the roads, where mainly Cypriot men meet to play cards, backgammon and drink Turkish coffee.
Malpas Hotel is another gathering place in Çatalköy. In the modern hotel you can have a flutter at the stylish casino, dine in the extensive buffet restaurant, or use many of the other hotel facilities such as the pool, spa treatments and massage’s.
Çatalköy is a perfect starting point when you want to travel the north coast, because the village is both close to Kyrenia’s charming city life and Esentepes magical bays.
So when you get the opportunity, take a trip to Çatalköy. Walk around and experience the village at your own pace. You are guaranteed to meet nice people from the local population, are sure to be impressed by the Mediterranean architecture and will discover good local restaurants and interesting shops.
