Fontana Amorosa, a secluded bay known for its pristine water, is a popular destination for cyclists on the Akamas peninsula. Since the 14-kilometre round-trip route includes unpaved roads, a mountain bike is recommended. At Anassa, we offer Revox 3.3 mountain bikes and Dolce 4.3 racing bikes for daily rental; helmets and locks are included. From the hotel, take the tarmac road northwest up the Mediterranean coast. The paved road ends at the Baths of Aphrodite, the freshwater grotto fabled as the goddess’s favourite place for bathing. Take a moment to view the baths and the adjoining botanical garden, which introduces you to the native flora of the Akamas. From here, the coastal road is joined for a while by the Aphrodite Trail for hikers. This portion of the route is unpaved, with some inclines and rocks to negotiate. As you ride, you can enjoy panoramic views from the cliffside across Chrysochou Bay. The landscape is rugged, with rock outcroppings surrounded by scrubby bushes, evergreens, and wildflowers (in season). Keep an eye out for sheep, hedgehogs, foxes, and the abundant bird life of the area. You may also encounter the ruins of ancient churches. Fontana Amorosa means source of love, and it was a harbour built by the Romans in the Hellenistic era. Bring a mask and snorkel and look for fragments of ancient amphorae on the sea’s bed. If you’d like, a fitness trainer can guide you on this and other trails throughout the Akamas nature preserve.
