There are many nature trails around Buyukkonuk. The hills, marked with over 30 km of trails, provide harder terrain while the area near the village and surroundinmg fields provides flat walting for anything from gentle stolling to biking and donkey riding.

There is lots to see including Mediterranean flowers, shrubs and trees plus orchids in the spring (March to May). Don’t forget to bring your botany guide books.  April and October are great times for spotting the migratory birds too.

The traditional manmade landscape is unique too. Gnarled olive trees, carob, almond and many local fruit trees are found between fields of barley and wheat.  Gardens of artichoke, mellons and vegetables provide food for local restaurants.

You don’t have to stick to just the marked trails.  Everywhere is open to your exploration as there are no fences in this area.  Just remember to show respect and do not trample crops. Walking on the edges of fields is legal and is acctually registered as ‘donkey paths’ in the law.

Sheep under Olive Trees

It would be neglectful not to mention a warning for snakes. Watch out for active snakes in the warmer months April to November. This means sticking to clear roads and keeping eyes on the ground when tramping through grass.  Snakes hibernate in cool weather but can be under stones or in crevices so always be aware.  High boots and long trousers are good and maybe you’d like to have a venom suction syringe (a device also good for mosqito and other insect bites; available from  EU pharmacies or online). As a rule, black snakes are harmless but the snake to watch out for is the viper which has a large diamond shaped head, cream and light brown markings, short thick body tapering to a short thin tail. Sometimes they hiss a warning but be very careful as their colouring is perfect camoflauge as they curl up in a sunny spot in the grass or sand. First Aid for snake bite is a pressure bandage on/above bite and immobility of limb; get help immediately.  All local doctor’s offices/ village medical clinics as well as hospitals have anti-venom serum.   Good news- there have been no reports of snake bites for years….but just be aware and be careful

So pack a sandwich, take some water and head out.  The place is your to explore!

Maps of trails and further information is available at Delcraft