If you’re looking for a scenic, peaceful way to explore Cyprus beyond the tourist crowds, walking from the Baths of Aphrodite to the Blue Lagoon offers the perfect balance of natural beauty, mild adventure, and quiet reflection. We kicked off our family holiday in Polis with this coastal hike, and although the Blue Lagoon wasn’t quite what we expected due to the wavy weather, it was a brilliant way to start our week in Cyprus.

Rather than taking a boat trip to Blue Lagoon — the more common way to visit — we chose to hike. We love walking and hiking (well, Ben and I do — the kids not so much, but they are good little walkers!). We also knew that due to the choppy sea conditions, boat tours from Latchi Harbour weren’t running that day anyway.

The calm, turquoise waters we’d seen in postcards and guidebooks weren’t on display during our visit, but we saw a different side of this famous spot — and still found the walk incredibly worthwhile.

Visiting the Baths of Aphrodite

We parked close to the Baths of Aphrodite trailhead and hadn’t planned to stop at the baths themselves, but as they were right there, we popped in for a look.

To be honest, I wasn’t that impressed. I expected something magical or grand, but it was a small shaded grotto with a pool of water and not much else. The myth is charming — this is where Aphrodite, goddess of love, used to bathe and met Adonis — but the actual site is underwhelming if you’ve seen other waterfalls or natural pools. Last year we visited St Nectan’s Glen in Cornwall, and that was much more impressive.

If you’re visiting the Baths as your only destination, you might be disappointed. But it’s worth seeing briefly if you’re already there or combining it with the coastal trail or an off-road safari to Blue Lagoon. There’s a botanical garden next to the site too, but we didn’t visit — perhaps that’s the more impressive part for some, and we should have taken a look while there!

Walking the Aphrodite Nature Trail (Coastal Route)

We followed the coastal side of the Aphrodite Trail from the baths to Blue Lagoon and then walked back the same way. The route is part of the Akamas Peninsula and features in many walking guides — it’s one of Cyprus’s best nature trails, known for its panoramic views and natural charm.

The part of the trail we followed hugged the coastline almost the whole way, giving us uninterrupted views of the turquoise sea and rolling green hills. The path was rocky and slippery in places, but manageable, and there was plenty to see and enjoy along the way. Spring wildflowers added bursts of colour, and we passed through a herd of goats wearing bells — a lovely rural moment that the kids enjoyed.

We also spotted lizards darting along the rocks, and many quad bikes and mountain buggies zoomed past us on the off-road trail that runs parallel to the walking path. If we return to Cyprus, hiring one of those would be a fun way to explore more of the region.

The walk took us around one hour each way, but we stopped frequently to take photos, admire the views, and just soak in the peace and sunshine. It was warm and sunny — perfect for walking in shorts and T-shirts, but with a breeze from the sea that made it comfortable.

Reaching the Blue Lagoon (on a Wavy Day!)

After an hour of hiking, we reached the famous Blue Lagoon. But it wasn’t quite what we expected!

Rather than the calm, crystal-clear turquoise bay we’d seen in photos, the sea was rough and wavy. It still looked beautiful in its own wild way, but there were no boats from Latchi Marina anchored, and it was definitely not a safe day for swimming.

I can only imagine it’s usually like the turquoise sea of Navarone Bay in Rhodes, where the colour of the water is so vivid it doesn’t look real. On a calm day, I imagine Blue Lagoon is just like that — and probably magical.

While it was a little disappointing not to experience it in its best light, we enjoyed the quietness, the dramatic waves, and the open views across the coast. There were only a few other people around, and the peacefulness of the area added to the charm. Even though the water wasn’t swimmable, it was still absolutely worth the walk.

We stopped and had a picnic on the rocks above Blue Lagoon, before starting our return walk.

What to Expect: Trail Details and Practical Tips

• Time: Takes around 1 hour each way, at a moderate pace with stops for photos and snacks.
• Trail type: Wide path, but rocky coastal trail with uneven ground and some hilly parts. Suitable for those with good mobility.
• Scenery: Cliffs, wildflowers, ocean views, and wildlife (goats, lizards, birds).
• Weather considerations: Best done in spring or autumn when it’s not too hot. Read what Cyprus is like in April here.
• Blue Lagoon conditions: On calm days, it’s perfect for swimming. On windy or wavy days, boats may not operate, and the water looks rough.

A Great Start to Our Cyprus Holiday

Despite the waves at Blue Lagoon, this hike was still enjoyable. It was the first activity of our holiday and showed us just how beautiful the Akamas National Park is.

We chatted the whole way there and back, took in the views, and gave our legs a bit of a workout — all with the promise of a nice meal and a relaxing evening back at Villa Kambos Dio.

If you’re staying in Polis, Latchi or the Akamas Peninsula, we’d definitely recommend skipping the boat (if the sea is rough) and walking the trail instead. You’ll see a wilder, more authentic side of the island — and even if the Blue Lagoon isn’t sparkling that day, the journey is every bit as rewarding.

If you love natural landscapes, check out these posts or places to visit nearby:

• Lara Beach and Lara Point walk
• The incredible Avakas Gorge walk
• The scenic and peaceful St George’s Harbour

Then, for something different, read things that surprised me about Cyprus!