Just a few miles from Girne ('Kyrenia') you will find the picturesque mountain village, Karaman, in which immigrants from Britain and other European countries have restored the village houses carefully and at considerable expense.

Although the village lies about 100 ft above sea-level, the coast can be reached on foot in under one hour. Nearly all the houses in Karaman have breathtaking views of the sea, the 'Kyrenia' mountain range, and Girne (Kyrenia) itself. Time seems to be standing still here: small steep alleys, lovingly tended gardens with flowers, olive, carob, eucalyptus, almond and fruit trees - and of course the beautiful old church with its impressive iconostasis are wonderful to look at as you walk through the village.

There is a small village shop ('Tony's) selling fresh bread, among other things, from about 9 a.m. There are two restaurants and a pub, plus a bar.

From the village there are several walks - if you intend to walk up to St. Hilarion Castle, it might be advisable to leave early in the morning before it gets too hot. The climb requires a certain level of fitness and definitely sturdy walking shoes or boots. Compared to this, the walk to the neighbouring village of Ilgaz is easy.

A book on 'Walks in North Cyprus' is available from the Green Jacket Bookshop in Girne (£ 7.00).