Walking in Polis: Aphrodite and Adonis

The main walks near Polis start at the Baths of Aphrodite, about 11 km west of the town, and there is a short town walk in Polis itself. Polis Chrysochous is in the Paphos District of the Republic of Cyprus, about 35 km from Paphos. The currency is the euro.

Aphrodite Nature Trail

The trail starts and ends at the Baths of Aphrodite and is a 7.5 km circular route, which takes 3 to 4 hours. The highest point is about 330 to 370 m, depending on the source. On the way you pass the ruins of Pyrgos tis Rigainas and an old oak, with views toward Cape Arnaoutis and Polis. Two fountains on the route are not drinkable, so carry all the water you need.

Adonis loop

The Adonis trail is also a 7.5 km loop of 3 to 4 hours. It starts about 400 m before the Baths of Aphrodite, and its highest point is 319 m on the official page. It shares part of its route with the Aphrodite trail, so the two can be combined into a longer day if you have the legs for it.

At the Baths

The Baths of Aphrodite are a small grotto pool and botanical garden under an old fig tree. Entry is free, and visitors are asked not to swim or wade in the pool. Treat them as a short stop before you set off.

A walk in Polis town

A short town walk takes in the Marion-Arsinoe museum at Leoforos Makariou III 26, the main square and the outside of the Agios Andronikos church. The museum is free, open 08:00 to 16:00 Monday to Friday and 09:00 to 15:00 on Saturday, and closed on Sunday and public holidays. The church was closed to the public by a March 2023 notice, so check access before you plan to go in.

Avakas Gorge

The Avakas Gorge trail has been closed to visitors since 6 December 2025, and chains and signs stand at the entrance. It lies on the Pegeia and Kathikas side, not at Polis. Check with the Forestry Department before any visit.

Practical tips

  • Start early in summer to avoid the midday heat.
  • Wear walking shoes and carry a hat, sun cream and more water than you expect to need.
  • Bus route 622 runs from Polis through Prodromi and Latchi to the Baths of Aphrodite. See pafosbuses.com or call +357 8000 5588 for current times.
  • Beyond the Baths, the track to Fontana Amorosa is unpaved with steep drops, so walkers and cyclists should take care, and a normal rental car should not use it.

Read the VisitCyprus Aphrodite trail page for the official description, check the Cyprus Mail report on Avakas for its status and browse guided walks near Polis for guided options.

Read more: sightseeing in Polis and activities in Polis .