Nightingales in Cyprus 2025

The sounds of nature can be more impressive than a symphonic orchestra, especially if the solo belongs to nightingales

Best time: April–July

"The nightingales won't let you sleep in Platres" says the poem written by Greek poet Giorgios Seferis. This is especially true if you visit Platres village from April till July during the nightingale pairing season.

These tiny birds return to Platres every spring and leave in autumn. This is the dominant species of birds in the forests of Troodos, as eagles and vultures are very rare to spot. Nightingales usually return to the same place, around Platres, in order to restore old nests and bring up their nestlings.

Songs of nightingales were glorified in ancient myths and songs, and if you hear them at least once you will understand why.

Practical info

When is the best time of year to visit Platres in Cyprus to hear the nightingales' songs?

The beautiful songs of nightingales in Platres can be heard from April to July. This is the perfect time for bird enthusiasts to visit and experience the magical sounds of these tiny yet powerful creatures. Nightingales arrive in the village during this period and their songs can be heard throughout the day and night.

Where can I find the best spots for nightingale watching in Platres?

Nightingale watching in Platres is best done in the forests of Troodos, where they are usually found. Nesting and breeding take place around Platres and the villages of the Troodos mountains making it the perfect location for bird enthusiasts. There are also nature trails within Platres and surrounding areas where these beautiful birds can be spotted.

What makes Platres the perfect location for nightingales to nest and breed?

The abundance of trees and vegetation combined with mountainous terrain and mild climate make Platres an ideal location for nightingales to nest and breed. The forests of Troodos provide an ideal habitat for these birds, and they are known to be the most important breeding site for nightingales on Cyprus. Platres is thus the perfect location for bird enthusiasts to experience the beauty of these creatures.

What other bird species can be found in the forests of Troodos besides eagles and vultures?

Apart from eagles and vultures, the forests of Troodos are home to various bird species such as blackbirds, finches, warblers, and tits. There are also rarer species such as the Scops Owl, the Cretzschmar's Bunting, and the Cyprus Wheatear. The forests are an excellent location for bird enthusiasts to spot these species as well as birds of prey such as the Peregrine Falcon and the Long-legged Buzzard.

Can nightingales be found anywhere else on Cyprus besides in Platres during the spring and summer months?

Nightingales can be found in other parts of Cyprus, but the Troodos forests around Platres are known to be the most important breeding site for these birds on the island. Nightingales aren't commonly found in urban areas or coastal regions of Cyprus, making Platres the perfect location for bird enthusiasts to spot them. The Troodos forests provide an ideal habitat for these birds to build their nests and raise their young.