In the framework of the implementation of the National Tourism Strategy 2030 and the innovative project "Heartland of Legends", the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the Department of Forests, will soon implement a new initiative to promote long distance hiking tourism and experiential, sustainable experiences in nature.
From next February, the operation of two forest shelters for hikers will start in the area of the old settlement "Livadi" in Paphos Forest. The historical buildings of the forestry station and the primary school of Livadi have been restored by the Forestry Department in cooperation with the Deputy Ministry of Tourism and will be the first forest shelters in Cyprus with accommodation facilities.
By definition, forest shelters are places that offer protection from the elements and therefore have basic infrastructure for accommodation, without providing additional services such as electricity, mattresses for sleeping etc. Similar infrastructures exist in many countries abroad.
The forest shelters of Livadi are located in an idyllic setting in nature, away from human activities and access will be on foot only, without motorized means. Long-distance hikers will be able to walk in daylight the distance from Psoka Cross to Livadi (about 15 km), where they will be able to stay overnight. The site is also suitable for stargazing.
The old path connecting the Cross of Psoka to Livadi, which was used by pilgrims, local residents and old foresters until the middle of the 20th century, has recently been found and opened manually by the Forestry Department. It is also noted that other old paths have been opened, which offer the option of a 5-6 day multi-day hike, from Panagia via Milikouroi, Kykkos and the Cross of Psoka, to Tilliria.
For a first introduction to the forest reserves of Livadi, the Ministry of State together with the Forestry Department are co-organizing a treasure hunt on the trail Cross of Psoka - Livadi, with a free overnight stay in the reserves as a prize. The treasure hunt will take place on 29 January 2023, starting from the Cross of the Fish. Interested hiking groups can obtain full details and register via the Ministry of Tourism's 'Heartland of Legends' platform.
For more information and accommodation reservations, both in the forest reserves of Livadi and in the guesthouse and wooden houses of the Cross of Psoka, interested parties can contact the Heartland of Legends platform. It is stressed that reservations will only be made online.
For any queries, the public can also contact the phone number 22691309, during working days, between 08 hours.30-15.00.
(MB/SX)
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