I spent an additional day in Girne trying to contact the Syrian
Embassy. Vidmantes offered to get the correct telephone number, but
our calls went unanswered. So, I decided to leave it and try my luck
at the Syrian border instead.
Girne – Kaplica – 60 kilometres
The following day, I thanked Vidmantes and continued towards
Famagusta. By late afternoon, I came across a lovely location on the
beach that had a bar and restaurant. I deemed it to be a good
enough spot and decided to pitch my tent there. With September
marking the end of the summer season, only a few tourists remained
—mostly pale-skinned Brits in Union Jack swimsuits. LOL
Kaplica – Famagusta – 60 kilometres
The following morning, I abandoned my little paradise and cycled
over the mountain (nothing like a mountain pass first thing in the
morning). Although campsites were available outside Famagusta, I
opted for a hotel near the harbour for convenience, as the return
ferry to Mersin, Turkey departed at 8h30 a.m., with the ticket office
opening at 7h00 a.m.
Famagusta turned out to be fascinating as it was from here that Silk
Road merchants transported goods to Western Europe. The historic
centre is still surrounded by walls built by the Venetians in the 15th
and 16th centuries. I spent hours wandering its ancient ruins and the
streets of the old walled city. Unfortunately, I ended up with
numerous itchy bites, likely from mosquitos, covering my face, arms,
and legs. Irritated by the itching, I returned to my abode.