Our Perfect Week by the Sea

Family Holidays in Esentepe, Northern Cyprus – Our Perfect Week by the Sea

I’ve just come back from a family holiday in Esentepe, Northern Cyprus, and honestly, I can’t stop thinking about it. We wanted somewhere peaceful but still full of things to do — a place where both adults and kids could relax and explore. Esentepe turned out to be exactly that: a hidden gem on the north coast of Cyprus, where mountains meet the Mediterranean and time seems to slow down.

First Impressions of Esentepe

From the moment we arrived, we were smitten. Esentepe village is perched between the pine-covered Besparmak Mountains and the shimmering blue sea. Our villa overlooked both, with the kind of view you could stare at for hours. The village itself has a calm, authentic feel — friendly locals, a little square with a mosque, a few cafés, and a lovely sense of community.

For families, the pace is ideal. You can explore in the morning, relax in the afternoon, and still have energy left for an evening stroll or dinner by the sea.

Things to Do in Esentepe, Northern Cyprus

Our days fell into an easy rhythm. Most mornings, we headed to Esentepe Beach. It’s quiet, clean, and family-friendly — perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The water is crystal-clear, and there’s a small café serving ice creams and snacks. We even spotted colourful fish near the rocks, much to the kids’ delight!

A short drive away, Alagadi (Turtle) Beach is another must-see. It’s one of the best places in Northern Cyprus to watch sea turtles nesting during the summer months. We didn’t catch a hatching, but just knowing these creatures were nearby made the visit special.

If you love the outdoors, Esentepe has plenty of walking and cycling routes. One morning, we took a gentle hike through the Besparmak foothills, surrounded by olive trees and wildflowers. The views over the coast were breathtaking, and the kids loved spotting lizards and butterflies along the way.

For something different, the Korineum Golf & Beach Resort nearby offers not only golf but also a spa, pool, and restaurant — perfect for a family treat day.

Food, Family and Village Life

Evenings in Esentepe were magical. We’d wander into the village for dinner at one of the local tavernas, where the food was fresh and the welcome warm. Our favourite was a seaside restaurant where we watched the sunset while eating grilled halloumi, mezze, and freshly caught fish. The kids played nearby while we lingered over a glass of Cypriot wine — pure bliss.

Why We’ll Be Back

Esentepe isn’t about loud nightlife or packed resorts. It’s about slow mornings, sea air, and genuine Cypriot hospitality. It’s a place where you can reconnect as a family, enjoy nature, and feel truly relaxed.

If you’re looking for a family holiday in Northern Cyprus that combines sunshine, adventure, and tranquillity, Esentepe should be top of your list. We came home refreshed, reconnected, and already planning our next trip back.