Plizio Visual Lab
Buffavento Castle
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
castle
Weather…
Water temperature…
Buffavento Castle stands at an impressive 950 meters above sea level, making it the highest of the three mountain fortresses in the Kyrenia range. Its Italian name translates to 'Defier of the Winds', aptly describing the gale-force winds common at its peak. The castle's origins trace back to the 10th century when the Byzantines established it as part of an early warning system against Arab maritime raids. Using beacon fires, signals could be swiftly relayed between the coastal castles and the inland capital. Richard the Lionheart captured the site in 1191 during his Mediterranean campaign. Under Lusignan rule, the fortress was predominantly used as a high-security state prison due to its inaccessible location. By the 16th century, the Venetians abandoned the castle, deeming it militarily obsolete. Modern visitors face a strenuous climb to reach the ruins, which offer unparalleled views across the northern and southern coasts of Cyprus.
- Location: Cyprus
- Top sights: Buffavento Castle · Taşkent Doğa Parkı · Taşkent view
- Nearby: Trapeza (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 14 | 16 | 19 | 22 | 26 | 30 | 30 | 28 | 25 | 20 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 75 | 49 | 29 | 17 | 14 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 10 | 24 | 42 | 83 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Buffavento Castle is a medieval ruin high in the Pentadaktylos Mountains. The site is freely accessible, but the path is steep and requires good physical fitness.
Typical hours
As a freely accessible ruin, there are no set opening hours. The ascent should be done during daylight; visiting after sunset is not advised.
Photography
Photography is allowed everywhere on the castle grounds. The impressive view of the surroundings and the bay provides excellent panoramic shots, especially in clear weather.
Time needed
Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours for the ascent and castle visit. The hike takes 30 to 45 minutes each way depending on fitness.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby castles of Kantara and St. Hilarion, also on the ridge. The three castles are often called 'the three castles of Kyrenia'.
Getting there
The castle is only accessible on foot via a hiking trail; the starting point is on the road between Kyrenia and Nicosia. Park at the roadside and follow the markings.
Insider tip
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water as there are no facilities. Start early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the best views.
Geography
Facts
- The highest castle in Cyprus, perched at 950 meters elevation.
- The name 'Buffavento' comes from the Italian for 'wind defier'.
- The structure is divided into two wards: lower and upper sections.
- Fell to Richard the Lionheart in 1191 after a brief siege.
- Functioned as a prison for high-profile figures during the 1300s.
- The Venetians intentionally disabled the castle's defenses in the 16th century.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Buffavento Castle (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the castle called Bufavento?
The name means 'buffeted by the wind', as it is the highest and windiest castle on the island.
How high is Bufavento Castle located?
It is situated at about 950 meters above sea level in the Kyrenia mountain range.
How strenuous is the path to the top?
It is a steep, approximately 40-minute walk up; sturdy footwear is required.
What can you see from Bufavento?
It features a broad view over the Mesaoria plain all the way to Nicosia.
When is the best time for the climb?
Early in the morning before it gets too hot, as the path provides very little shade.
Buffavento Castle: where is it located?
Buffavento Castle is located in Cyprus.
Buffavento Castle: what is there to see?
Highlights include Buffavento Castle, Taşkent Doğa Parkı, Taşkent view.
Buffavento Castle: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Nov.
Buffavento Castle: why is it worth visiting?
Buffavento Castle stands at an impressive 950 meters above sea level, making it the highest of the three mountain fortresses in the Kyrenia range.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Cyprus →
Nearby cities
Strovolos
Strovolos is a large municipality in the Nicosia District.
Latsia
Latsia is a suburb in the southeast of Nicosia.
Agios Georgios
A picturesque coastal village in Northern Cyprus, famous for its tranquil bay and proximity to the historic town of Kyrenia.
Elia
Elia is a tranquil coastal village in Cyprus, known for its pristine sandy beaches and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Karavas
A picturesque coastal town in Cyprus, renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches, historic sites, and lush Mediterranean scenery.
Lapithos
Lapithos is a picturesque coastal town in Cyprus, known for its lush citrus groves and stunning sea views.
Vasilia
Vasilia is a scenic coastal village in Cyprus offering stunning Mediterranean views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Agioi Trimithias
Agioi Trimithias is a municipality west of Nicosia.
🗺️
Spathariko
Spathariko is a beautiful destination in Cyprus, offering a relaxing Mediterranean atmosphere and access to the famous Mckenzie Beach.
Agios Amvrosios
Agios Amvrosios (Esentepe) is a picturesque coastal village in northern Cyprus, known for its historic charm and Esentepe Belediye Halk P…
🗺️
Chartzia
A quiet coastal locality in North Cyprus, known for its untouched nature, spectacular mountain backdrops, and exclusive beach clubs.
🗺️
Trapeza
Beautiful Cypriot destination famous for its pristine sea turtle nesting beaches.
Livera
Livera is an idyllic coastal village in the northwest of Cyprus.
🗺️
Orga
A quiet coastal village in Northern Cyprus, known for its untouched nature and crystal-clear waters.
History & landmarks
Lefkara
A world-famous village for traditional lace and silverwork, with architecture defined by its namesake white limestone.
La Cava Castle
A former medieval castle near Nicosia.
Famagusta Gate
One of the three historical entrance gates of the Venetian fortifications of Nicosia.
Kyrenia Castle
A powerful castle in the harbor of Kyrenia.
Frourio Castle
Remains of a defensive structure near Nicosia that is historically significant.
Omerye Mosque
The mosque in Nicosia was built on the remains of a 14th-century Augustinian monastery.
Venetian Walls of Nicosia
These star-shaped fortifications were built in the 16th century by the Venetians.
Paphos Gate
One of the three historical city gates in the Venetian fortifications of the capital Nicosia.
Nature
More places
Pentadaktylos (Kyrenia) Mountains
A long, narrow mountain range running along the northern coast of Cyprus, known for its dramatic limestone peaks.
🗺️
Aetomouti Hill
Aetomouti is a hill in the Kyrenia Mountains.
🗺️
Kyrenia Mountains
The Kyrenia Mountains run along the north coast of Cyprus.
Yaila Plateau
Yaila Plateau is located in the Kyrenia Mountains.
Church of St. Kassianos
A historical church in the old quarter of Nicosia.
Agios Nikolaos Church
A traditional church in one of the historically characterized quarters of Nicosia.
Panagia Chrysaliniotissa Church
The oldest Byzantine church in the old town of Nicosia.
Kyrenia Harbour
A beautiful horseshoe-shaped harbour in Northern Cyprus, dominated by Kyrenia Castle.