St. Hilarion Castle: a practical note for Girne

Three-tier Byzantine castle on the Pentadaktylos. The climb is steep but the views are legendary. Misty days feel magical; clear days show the harbour.

St. Hilarion Castle is a three-tier Byzantine castle set on a rugged peak of the Pentadaktylos (Beşparmak) mountains. It takes its name from the hermit monk Hilarion who settled in the area; beginning as a monastery and church, it was fortified in the Lusignan period into a summer palace and defensive stronghold. Its fairy-tale silhouette is said to have inspired the castle in Disney's Snow White.

A visit starts from the courtyards of the lower ward and climbs steep paths to the church, cisterns and royal apartments of the middle ward, then up to the lookout points of the uppermost level. The climb to the top is demanding but rewarding: on clear days the Kyrenia coast and the sea, and on misty days a magical view above the clouds.

There is little shade, so water, a hat and comfortable shoes are essential. The cool morning hours are best for both the climb and photography. The castle is reached via a turn-off from the Kyrenia, Nicosia road.

What to see

• Three-tier castle and royal apartments
• Church and cisterns of the middle ward
• Sea and Kyrenia views from the top
• Above-the-clouds atmosphere on misty days
• Fairy-tale silhouette and photo spots

How to get there

In Girne, St. Hilarion Castle is easiest with car hire or a short taxi. Map and hours: St. Hilarion Castle.

Small notes

• Bring water and a hat: little shade.
• The uppermost level needs extra effort.
• Accessed via a turn-off from the Kyrenia-Nicosia road.

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