Athalassa: Picnic Area - Nations Park (long)

The Athalassa: Picnic Area – Nations Park (long) is a satisfying urban-forest loop that showcases Nicosia's most accessible green escape. At 5.7 km of gently rolling gravel and paved paths, this circular route connects the western Picnic Area through the Park of Nations and back — a popular choice for joggers and walkers seeking a solid hour of outdoor time without major elevation. The setting is honest: this is a managed city park with amenities, not a wilderness trail, but the scale and tree cover feel genuinely peaceful, and the Athalassa Dam glimpses add scenic interest.

The route winds through mixed Mediterranean woodland dominated by pines and eucalyptus, with understory shrubs and native herbs creating pleasant shade and fragrance, especially on warmer days. The paths are well-maintained and clearly marked, passing picnic facilities, benches, and bird-watching points. This long variant is the popular choice for a more substantial loop; a shorter option exists for those wanting less distance. The Park of Nations section, with its open spaces and water views, feels more exposed and park-like — a welcome contrast to the canopied stretches.

For Nicosia residents and visitors based in the capital, Athalassa National Forest Park represents the city's "green lungs" — a purpose-built respite that works well for conditioning walks, group outings, or leisurely midweek strolls. The park infrastructure (parking, water, facilities) and proximity to central Nicosia make it practical and reliable, while the trail itself avoids the crowds of more famous Cypriot hikes.