Bellapais Abbey: a practical note for Girne

13th-century Lusignan abbey. Cloisters, arches and a panorama of Kyrenia and the sea. Immortalised in Lawrence Durrell's Bitter Lemons.

Bellapais Abbey sits on the slope just above Kyrenia, in the peaceful village of the same name. Founded in the 13th century under Lusignan rule, its name is generally traced to the French Abbaye de la Paix (Abbey of Peace). It is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture on the island.

The arched cloister, the refectory and the light streaming through tall windows give the building a serene atmosphere. From the terrace level a panorama of the Kyrenia plain and the sea opens up, a view worth the trip on its own. British author Lawrence Durrell immortalised the village and abbey in his book Bitter Lemons.

The famous Tree of Idleness in the village square is a classic stop. Concerts are sometimes held in the abbey courtyard in summer. It is about 15 minutes by car from Kyrenia centre.

What to see

• Gothic cloister and arched courtyard
• The refectory (dining hall)
• Panorama of the Kyrenia plain and sea
• The Tree of Idleness on the village square
• Summer concerts (seasonal)

How to get there

In Girne, Bellapais Abbey is easiest with car hire or a short taxi. Map and hours: Bellapais Abbey.

Small notes

• The Tree of Idleness café in the village is a classic stop.
• Summer concerts are sometimes held in the abbey.
• About 15 min by car from Kyrenia centre.

Dinner: restaurants. Other stops: Cyprus guide. A place to stay: housing.