Iskele

Iskele is an important tourist centre as it lies on the crossroads of Lefkosa, Famagusta and the Karpaz peninsula. Named after a Turkish district in Larnaca after Turkish Cypriots relocated in 1975. At the centre of the village is the 15 th century church of St. Jacob . Restored by the Turkish department of antiquities and museums the church was opened as the Icon museum of Iskele in May 1991. The main agriculture products of the area are artichokes, carob and olives. Fishing and farming also contribute to the local populations income.

The area surrounding Iskele is of great natural beauty with a 25km long coastline extending to the furthest eastern point on the island. The National park on the Karpaz peninsula also known as the panhandle is an area rich in nature with birds, wild donkeys, rare flora such as Orchids and not forgetting the miles of untouched sandy beaches that in the summer months become the nesting ground for the Green and Loggerhead turtles.

The newly constructed road from the Ercan airport junction makes travelling to the region fast and easy. The area is a favourite among walkers and there are trails to follow allowing exploration of the many historical monuments. The tourist information centre at Yenierenkoy can provide you with maps and details of walks, beaches and information on Turtles and birds.

One of the historical sites in the area worth a visit is the Apostolos Andreas Monastery, situated on the point known as the Cape of St Andrea . The monastery is dedicated to Saint Andrew (apostle andreas) He was the first person to be called for induction into priesthood by Christ, his title was "O Protoklitos" meaning " the first one called". The monastery is recognised as sacred by both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots and is visited by many people for prayers.

Kantara castle is also a major historical site, the easternmost of North Cyprus 's three castles on the Kyrenia mountain range. Kantara is about 700 metres above sea level and was in a good position to control the entrance to the peninsula. The word Kantara is Arabic for arch or bridge and as the castles bridges the mountain range the name is very appropriate. Thought to have been constructed by the Byzantines the castle is first mentioned by written sources in the 12 th century after Richard the Lion heart captured the island. The castle was involved in numerous battles during the Lusignan and Venetian periods and was refuge to many defeated Barons and Kings.

The fishing village of Bogaz is popular with tourists and locals alike. The beautiful coastal village is on the southern edge of the Karpaz peninsula. The fish restaurants around its harbour provide a welcome spot to sit and enjoy a meal of freshly caught fish or just a leisurely drink, whilst looking out to sea. There are also sandy beaches and a couple of reliable hotels. Bogaz is well situated as a base to explore the region being only a few kilometres north of Iskele, and 25kms from Famagusta .