7 Reasons to Visit North Cyprus in 2017

North Cyprus has been in the news already this year, with negotiations taking place to reunify the island. Why not make 2017 the year to visit this sleepy corner of the Mediterranean?

With so much to see and do in North Cyprus, the last thing you'll want to do is flop on a sun lounger – though there's ample opportunity to do that too. North Cyprus packs in a lot for a destination of its size. Here are just a few of the experiences on offer and sights ripe for discovery:

1. Fairytale Castles

Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle has become an instantly recognisable landmark of worldwide renown. Did you know that the inspiration for this iconic structure is said to have come from St. Hilarion Castle, its unusual formation comprising three turrets and three sets of defensive walls? The castle's commanding position overlooking the Kyrenia coastline further adds to the fairytale allure.

2. Postcard Vistas

Is it any wonder Kyrenia Harbour has become the most photographed view in North Cyprus? Flanked by a grand, Venetian Castle and ramparts built in the 16th century, the pretty horseshoe-shaped harbour is lined with towering former carob warehouses, now charming cafes and restaurants. The backdrop of the magnificent Five Finger Mountains completes the postcard-perfect scene.

3. Enthralling Wildlife

Bird watching holidays are suddenly fashionable and North Cyprus is the ideal destination for twitchers, as it is situated on a prime migratory route. The island is also home to endangered Green and Loggerhead turtles and a conservation project led by a team of volunteers from the University of Exeter ensures they continue to survive and thrive here on the island's unspoilt beaches. Time a visit to coincide with nesting or hatching season, and you may be lucky enough to see these magnificent creatures in close quarter

4. World-class Golf

The Korineum is North Cyprus's championship golf course, equipped with 18 holes, driving range, high-end clubhouse and pro shop – not to mention jaw-dropping, 360-degree mountain, countryside and coastal panoramas. The Korineum also has boutique on-site accommodation, complete with private beach club (accessed by shuttle service) and state-of-the-art spa.

5. Dazzling Beaches

The Famagusta coast is famed for its dazzling, white sand beaches. The ancient site of Salamis, the former capital of island, lies 6km north of Famagusta itself. Though the site is impressive as it currently stands, it is only partially excavated and it's incredible to learn that a large proportion of the ruins lay buried underneath the sand still. The wild and rugged coastal beauty continues as you journey north to the Karpaz Peninsula, known as Cyprus's 'pan handle'. In the far reaches, you'll most likely have just wild donkeys for company

6. Tantalizing Cuisine

North Cypriot cuisine has its roots not only in Turkey but also in Greece, the Lebanon, Syria, France and Italy. Due to its strategic position in the midst of the Mediterranean on trade routes between Europe, Asia and North Africa many civilisations have conquered this island and all have left their culinary trace - from succulent kebabs to mouthwatering meze and sweet, syrupy desserts. The local tipple is brandy sour, said to have been invented in 1947 for the visit of King Farouk of Egypt who didn't want to be seen drinking alcohol in public

7. Activities Ahoy

From sublime scuba diving to rambling, orchid spotting to mountain-biking, the landscape and climate of North Cyprus lends itself to a host of outdoor activities, the majority of which can be enjoyed all year round.

The Practicalities

There is an expanding array of accommodation options in North Cyprus – from intimate boutique and family-run 'eco' hotels up in the rugged Karpaz region to luxury beach-front hotels, such as the brand new Lord's Palace Hotel, situated within walking distance of Kyrenia Harbour.

Welcometonorthcyprus.co.uk contains all the information necessary to plan a holiday in North Cyprus, including comprehensive airline and tour operator listings.