Rides in Peyia

From Peyia and Coral Bay people ride quad bikes, and the choice comes down to one question: one machine per person or one for two. The first is dearer but everyone steers; the second is cheaper, though the passenger sits behind the whole way with nothing to do. There are buggies too — two seats side by side, one wheel, but a closed body that keeps out much of the dust.

The route is nearly always the same: a climb from the coast on dirt roads to the Baths of Adonis, a stop at the waterfall, and a loop back through the hills overlooking Coral Bay. The whole thing takes about three and a half hours, of which some two are spent driving. Before setting off there is a short briefing and helmets are issued; the column follows the guide, and overtaking is not allowed — on gravel that ends in a skid.

Practical notes. The driver needs a category B licence, the passenger none; helmets are compulsory for all. Shoes must be closed, since legs are exposed on a quad and stones fly from under the wheels. Dust gets into everything: leave light clothing behind and bring glasses, preferably the wraparound kind. In summer rides go in the morning, as the open slopes are hot after midday. After rain some tracks turn to mud and the route is shortened.