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Nicosia

Embark on an inspiring hiking journey in Nicosia, revealing its natural treasures and less-trodden trails. This area is a haven for hiking enthusiasts in search of new outdoor experiences.

Agia Varvara – Aspradi

Area:

Agia Varvara

Length:

3km

Duration:

1hour

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

Provides excellent views towards Mesaoria, Larnaca, and Nicosia. Rich flora and fauna. It connects with the Stavrovouni - Anglisides Trail.

Agios Georgios

Area:

Athalassa Park

Length:

2 km

Duration:

45 mins

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

The excursion area, dam, and Athalassa Environmental Information and Education Center are located at the junction of Kyreneia and Athalassa Avenues.

Note: There is a network of trails with a total length of 20km. The designation "circular" or "linear" refers to each individual route, but the routes are interconnected.

Agios Georgios – Botanical Garden

Area:

Athalassa Park

Length:

2.5km

Duration:

45mins

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

Dasovotanikos Garden, established in 1963-1964 on 3 hectares, features around 200 tree and shrub species. The forest research branch added Clones pine on 7 hectares with 1000 pine trees in 1967, and a seed garden on 7 hectares with 3000 pine seeds in 1975. Other experiments include Efkalyptonas with 15 hectares and 75 eucalyptus species, and pine hybrids on 2.5 hectares. Since 1974, around 40 hectares of the Main State Forest Athalassas have been part of the buffer zone, and approximately 357 hectares were declared "National Forest Park Athalassa" in 1985, with sections now used for the New General Hospital and the University Campus.

The botanical garden next to the Forest Nursery, operating Monday to Friday from 07:30 to 14:30.

Note: There is a network of trails with a total length of 20km. The designation "circular" or "linear" refers to each individual route, but the routes are interconnected.

Aglantzia – Athalassa Park

Area:

Athalassa Park

Length:

9.2km

Duration:

2.5hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

Embark on an adventure along this 9.2km loop trail located near Aglantzia, Nicosia. Generally regarded as moderately challenging, this route typically takes around 2.5 hours to complete. It's a favored choice for both hikers and runners, but if you prefer a more solitary experience, quieter times of the day offer just that. The trail welcomes visitors year-round and boasts its unique beauty in all seasons.

This extensive circular path unfolds within the captivating Athalassa National Forest Park, commencing from its northern sector and meandering through Agios Georgios Park. It then leads alongside the serene Agios Georgios Lake before entering Athalassa itself. The route ventures southward from the park's western region, accompanying the scenic Athalassa Dam's artificial lake. Upon reaching Penhill Hill, the path changes course to the east and then northward, guiding you back to your initial point of departure.

Archangelos – Mylos Tis Rodous

Area:

Galata

Length:

1km

Duration:

30mins

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

The Archangelos Church, the rich vegetation of the Klarios River flowing parallel to the trail, and the restored buildings of the Roudou Mill. 200m from the Archangelos Church is the Church of Panagia Podithou, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List https://whc.unesco.org/

Ariadne

Area:

Gerakies

Length:

5km

Duration:

2.5hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

Beautiful views and the possibility to visit the Kavallos fire lookout at the highest point of the trail. It passes through the picturesque village of Gerakies, located in the Marathasa Valley, built on a mountainside with abundant vegetation on the outskirts of the Paphos Forest. It ascends south of the Tree Tops Hotel and descends, to make a circular route, along the main road from Gerakies to Kykkos for approximately 800m.

Asinou – Agios Theodoros

Area:

Asinou

Length:

6km

Duration:

2hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

Diverse landscape and panoramic view of Morphou Bay. The route passes through a forested area, following a path and a rural road. There is an opportunity to visit the Church of Panagia Asinou (12th century) with its famous frescoes, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site https://whc.unesco.org/

Athalassa Dam

Area:

Athalassa Park

Length:

2.2 km

Duration:

45mins

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

The path goes around the dam. You can also find a waterbird observatory.

Note: There is a network of trails with a total length of 20km. The designation "circular" or "linear" refers to each individual route, but the routes are interconnected.

Athalassa MTB

Area:

Athalassa Park

Length:

5km

Duration:

1hour

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

Embark on a journey along this 5km loop trail situated near Aglantzia, Nicosia. Generally characterized as moderately challenging, this route typically takes around 1 hour to complete. It's a well-frequented trail, catering to hiking, mountain biking, and running enthusiasts. However, even amidst its popularity, you can find moments of tranquility during quieter times of the day.

This circular path guides you through the Athalassa National Park, nestled in the southeastern region of Nicosia. This verdant expanse provides an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, offering trails and mountain biking routes. The trail commences south of the lake and winds its way northeast before curving southwest, ultimately returning you to the starting point. As the largest free green area in proximity to Nicosia, the park's natural surroundings create a forest-like ambiance for its visitors. Furthermore, it's a favored destination for mountain biking, with additional trails available should you wish to extend your ride.

Athalassa Park North Entrance

Area:

Athalassa Park

Length:

2.5 km

Duration:

45mins

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

There are four different routes connected with the option to create a circular one. It is Accessible from Nicosia - Latsia Road. You can find the Park Of Nations.

Note: There is a network of trails with a total length of 20km. The designation "circular" or "linear" refers to each individual route, but the routes are interconnected.

 

Athalassa Park NW Entrance – Agios Georgios

Area:

Athalassa Park

Length:

4km

Duration:

1hour

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

This Trail connects two picnic sites, and part of the route passes along the Athalassa Dam.

Note: There is a network of trails with a total length of 20km. The designation "circular" or "linear" refers to each individual route, but the routes are interconnected.

Botanical Garden – Athalassa Park

Area:

Athalassa Park

Length:

2.2km

Duration:

45mins

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

The path through pine trees, eucalyptus, cypress, and acacia. Excursion area next to the Athalassa Dam.

Note: There is a network of trails with a total length of 20km. The designation "circular" or "linear" refers to each individual route, but the routes are interconnected.

Dio Mouttes – Pavliades

Area:

Lazanias

Length:

4.7km

Duration:

1.5hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

From various points, the hiker can enjoy a view of the areas of Nicosia, Larnaca, and Limassol. The area where the trail is located has a peculiarity compared to the rest of Machairas Forest, as it is covered with the endemic tree Latzia (Quercus alnifolia).

Fikardou – Archontidi Center

Area:

Fikardou

Length:

5km

Duration:

2hours

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

This trail follows the ridgeline, providing excellent views of the surrounding area and Nicosia. It has rich flora and fauna. It is part of the European Path E4. It connects with the Lazanias-Fikardou Path.

Route 1: The Fikardou Church

Route 2: The Archontidi Centre on the Kalo Chorio – Farmaka Road

It is connected with the Lazania – Fikardou Nature Trail.

 

Foundoukodasos (Hazelnuts Forest)

Area:

Polystypos

Length:

1.5km

Duration:

40mins

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

You can see the spring that supplied water to the lower neighborhood of the village, the path through the orchards of the community, and the hazelnut forest. The large walnut tree near the "Makruli" watermill and the ancient oak tree of Hatzimathaiou, approximately 840 years old, at the end of the trail.

Gourri Village

Area:

Gourri

Length:

3km

Duration:

1hour

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

Local flora and traditional dry stone walls. At the end of the path, there is a natural waterfall. The nature trail kicks off at the historic fountain site, surrounded by majestic plane trees. This captivating 2 km path meanders along the riverbank, guiding you across charming wooden bridges that offer glimpses of the local flora and the melodious gush of water flowing from the Mavritsio waterfall.

Gregoris Afxentiou Hideout – Filani

Area:

Machairas

Length:

5.8km

Duration:

1.5hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

This is a stunning nature trail that traverses the scenic area of Machaira. Starting at the Grigoris Afxentiou Hideout, just north of Machaira Monastery, the path leads northward into the lush Pedieos river valley, surrounded by abundant greenery. It culminates near the Filani settlement road. The exquisite natural surroundings and the well-maintained trail evoke a delightful sense of euphoria, allowing you to savor the beauty of Cypriot nature.

Generally regarded as a moderately challenging route, it typically takes an average of 1 hour and 37 minutes to complete. It's a favored trail for hikers, although moments of tranquility can be found during quieter times of the day. This trail remains accessible throughout the year and offers its beauty to be admired at any season.

Kakokefalos – Mantra Tou Kampiou

Area:

Machairas

Length:

5.5km

Duration:

2.5hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

Panoramic views of the surrounding area and Mesaoria. It passes through the ruins of an old station. Rich natural vegetation. On average, it takes around 2 hours to complete. Perfect for hiking and mountain biking, this trail offers solitude, as it's less frequented by others. Enjoy its year-round accessibility and the scenic beauty it offers, making it a wonderful destination to visit anytime.

Kalopanayiotis – Oikos

Area:

Kalopanagiotis

Length:

4km

Duration:

1.5hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

This Trail passes through private areas with vineyards and fruit trees such as apple, cherry, and pear trees. It passes by the "Kykko Watermill" located near the Setrachos River, with abundant vegetation, and passes through an old bridge, which was a stone aqueduct that transported water for irrigation in the area.

It also passes by the healing springs of Kalopanayiotis and the Monastery of Agios Ioannis Lampadistis, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It then briefly follows the course of the Setrachos River and ascends towards the village of Oikos for a distance before descending again to the river to reach the Faraga Spring.

Kannoures – Agios Nikolaos Stegis

Area:

Kakopetria

Length:

15.6km

Duration:

5hours

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

Pristine forest landscape. It starts next to the source of Karkoti River and, crossing through the beautiful valley, passes close to the facilities of the closed chrome mine and ends in Kakopetria. The route can pass by the church of Agios Nikolaos Stegis (12th century), which features exceptional frescoes and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List https://whc.unesco.org/ From the area of Agios Nikolaos, the hiker can follow the Pedoula-Kakopetria road for approximately 3km and end in Kakopetria.

Kionia – Kato Drys

Area:

Lazanias

Length:

3.5km

Duration:

1.5hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

Panoramic view with a wide range of eastern, northern, and western areas of Kionia. Short and somewhat demanding trail offering panoramic views of Nicosia and Larnaca. It leads nearly to Kionia fire lookout station. The trail is linear, but you can make it circular by walking along the asphalt road back to the starting point.

Kionia – Prophet Elias

Area:

Lazanias

Length:

7.5km

Duration:

2.5 hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

Access from the road of Machairas Monastery leading to Kionia or from Vavatsinia towards Machairas. It ends at the Monastery of Prophet Elias, approximately 8km from Lythrodontas and 6km from Mandras tou Kambiou, with access from dirt roads. The route starts from the Kionia Picnic Area, where there is a spring with drinking water. It follows a path through a forest and offers excellent views of the Mesaoria plain. It is part of the European Path E4.

Kourdali – Limeria

Area:

Kourdali

Length:

3.6 km

Duration:

1.5hours

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

Access to the location "Selladi of Straorouthkias" can be made by vehicle via a dirt road from the village of Spilia, approximately 2km away, and the hiker can follow the route towards Limeria for a length of 2km.

A path through a forested area. It offers the opportunity to visit various hideouts used by the guerrillas during the liberation struggle of 1955-59. The path connects with the Agia Eirini Trail, and they have a common route of 2km from Selladi of Straorouthkias towards Limeria.

Lagoudera – Agros

Area:

Lagoudera

Length:

6km

Duration:

2.5hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

Embarking on this scenic trail, you'll journey through flourishing vineyards and fruit orchards adorned with apple, cherry, and pear trees. Setting off from Lagoudera, the initial section of the trail closely parallels the meandering course of the Lagoudera River, inviting you to experience the soothing melodies of rippling waters. As you ascend toward the summit ridge of Madari-Papoutsa, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic vistas in every direction. Moreover, you can explore a route to Madari using the accessible road and the comprehensive nature trail network starting from Adelfoi Peak. The Lagoudera trail's starting point conveniently shares proximity with the Lagoudera-Stavros tou Ayiasmati nature trail, allowing you to seamlessly explore both captivating routes.

Lagoudera / Agros – Madari

Area:

Lagoudera

Length:

7.5km

Duration:

3.5hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Out & Back

GPS:

Description

These two routes merge on the main road of Chandria/Polystypos-Agros, 800m before the road that leads to the Adelfoi peak and the Madari fire lookout. Length: From Agros 7km, from Lagoudera 8km. Time: From Agros 3 hours, from Lagoudera 3.5 hours. Panoramic views on both routes.

Lefkothea (Aetomoutti)

Area:

Lythrodontas

Length:

2km

Duration:

30mins

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

Excellent views from the top of Aetou (Eagle) towards the areas of Nicosia and Lefkara. It is part of the European Path E4.

Livadi (Wheelchair Suitable)

Area:

Troodos

Length:

1.5 km

Duration:

0.5hours

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

A route through a natural forest of black pine with a view towards the Solea Valley.

This trail winds through a lush forest of black pine and foetid juniper, home to ancient trees. A viewpoint offers vistas of Chromium River and Solea Valley. For the complete route, return from the viewpoint for about 100 meters, then follow the right path as indicated. Tree logging ceased in 1972, prioritizing biodiversity, water resources, and landscape preservation. Enjoy the picnic site with drinking water and visit the Troodos Visitor Centre for insights into the local environment.

Lorovounos

Area:

Akoni

Length:

2km

Duration:

1 hour

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

Views of Kato Pyrgos, Pachyammos, and the occupied area of Kokkina enclave. The trail features a monument for the fallen during the 1964 battles.

Note: This is not a nature study trail but was created to provide access to the historical site of Lorovounos.

Machairas Monastery – Lazanias

Area:

Machairas

Length:

4.8km

Duration:

1.45hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Out & Back

GPS:

Description

Delve into this 4.8km round-trip trail near Machairas, Nicosia. Typically regarded as a moderately challenging route, it requires an average of 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete. While this trail is a favorite for hikers, there are moments of solitude available during off-peak times. It's accessible year-round and showcases its beauty throughout the seasons.

This scenic path is a segment of the European Path E4. It commences at Machairas Monastery, descending alongside a petite valley. The trail then gradually ascends, winding through low and sparse vegetation until you reach the Lazanias settlement. Along the way, you'll relish picturesque vistas of the neighboring hills in the area. Your return journey retraces the same route.

The trail leads you over the Pedieos River, a haven for rich flora and fauna, and is an integral part of the European Path E4 network. It also links up with the Lazanias-Fikardou Path.

Machairas Monastery – Lazanias – Fikardou

Area:

Machairas

Length:

9.8km

Duration:

4hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Out & Back

GPS:

Description

Set off on this 9.8km round trip trail near Machairas, Nicosia. Generally considered a challenging route, it typically takes around 4hours to complete. This trail is quite popular for hiking, yet you can still find moments of solitude during quieter times of the day. It's open year-round and boasts its beauty in every season.

Starting from Machairas Monastery, the trail initially descends towards Lazanias village, mostly following a small ravine's course. Upon reaching Lazanias, the path ascends the terraced hillside and proceeds to the col, then descends toward Fikardou village. This route offers a captivating experience in the heart of Cyprus, immersing you in the scents and sights of the indigenous herbs and shrubs that abound in the region.

The trail provides sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is teeming with diverse flora and fauna. It's also part of the European Path E4 network, linking up with the Machairas-Lazanias and Fikardou-Archontiko paths.

Madari Summit Spilia Circuit

Area:

Spilia

Length:

14km

Duration:

5hours

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

Starting point: (a) "Moutti of Choras," 1km after the village of Spilia towards Agia Eirini/Kannavia. (b) "Selladi of Karamanlis," 1.5km from Saranti/Lagoudera towards Spilia or 6km from Spilia on a dirt road. (c) "Doxa soi o Theos," 2km from Kyperounta (Sanatorium) and 5km from Spilia, on the Kyperountas - Spilia road. (d) Madari Fire Station. Access by vehicle is available from the Hantria - Polystypos road, heading towards Adelfoi Peak, which is 3km away. The road is paved up to a distance of 800m from the starting point (b). The last 800m are on rough, narrow, and steep dirt road.

Panoramic views in all directions from an altitude of 1400 - 1600m along the Madari ridge. The path passes through a forest of dense pine and juniper, known as the "Black Forest," which is one of the most pristine forests without human intervention. In the middle of the route, there is another short path that leads to a giant oak tree (Quercus coccifera subsp. calliprinos). There is a spring with drinking water at the starting point (c). It ends near Adelfoi Peak (1613m). Visitors have the opportunity to climb up to the Madari Fire Station, which dominates the area. The route follows a path through a cedar forest, located approximately in the middle of the route.

 

Mantra Tou Kampiou (Wheelchair Suitable)

Area:

Machiaras

Length:

1km

Duration:

30mins

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

A path through the forest.

Panagia tou Araka – Stavros tou Agiasmati

Area:

Lagoudera

Length:

7.5km

Duration:

3hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

The Churches of Panagia tou Araka (1192 AD) and Stavros of Agiasmatis (1494 AD) with exceptional frescoes, are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List https://whc.unesco.org/. The path passes through a forest of dense pine trees, vineyards, almond trees, and old dry stone walls. To the east of the path, the Kionia mountain range is visible, to the north is the Morphou plain and Mount Pentadaktylos, to the west is Mount Olympus, and to the south is Madari. It is connected to the Lagoudera or Agros - Madari trails.

Note: The Church of Stavros tou Agiasmatis is open from 10:00 to 17:00 daily. If the church is closed during your visit, you can contact Father Georgios at 99677216 for arrangements.

Pano Ampelia

Area:

Askas

Length:

1.5 km

Duration:

1hour

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

The path passes through a dense forest of rugged pine trees, abandoned fields where natural vegetation has returned, as well as orchards with hazelnut and walnut trees. The path offers a view of the Pentadaktylos mountain range.

Panthea

Area:

Tsakkistra

Length:

11km

Duration:

3.5hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

The path passes through a dense pine forest with rich shrubby vegetation. It offers a panoramic view of the valleys of Kampos and Xeros. It passes through cherry and apple orchards and ends outside the community of Kampos.

Park Of Nations – Agios Georgios

Area:

Athalassa Park

Length:

2.5km

Duration:

45mins

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

This Trail connects two picnic site areas, and part of the route passes along the Athalassa Dam.

Note: There is a network of trails with a total length of 20km. The designation "circular" or "linear" refers to each individual route, but the routes are interconnected.

Pen Hill

Area:

Athalassa Park

Length:

7.7km

Duration:

2hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

This trail is typically seen as moderately challenging, with an average completion time of 2hours. It's a well-liked choice for both hikers and runners, yet it provides opportunities for solitude during quieter hours of the day. You can explore this trail all year long, and its natural beauty is enchanting at any time.

Starting from the Aglantzia suburb in the north, this path traverses the Athalassa National Forest Park from north to south. It closely follows the pre-established, well-maintained trails that extend and branch throughout the park. As you journey further south and reach the modest Pen Hill, the trail seamlessly transitions into a circular route before looping back to the original starting point in the north. This protected area in the southeastern region of Nicosia offers stunning views of nature and a serene atmosphere for all to enjoy.

Petros Vanezis

Area:

Alona

Length:

2km

Duration:

45mins

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

This trail has two access points along the main road in Alona Village. One entrance is located adjacent to the SPE Alonas, while the second can be found approximately 300 meters to the south, near the village church.

Alona stands out as one of the most charming villages in the Pitsillia region, boasting quaint stone-built houses and lush green landscapes. As you journey along the nature trail, you'll traverse through dense groves of hazelnut, cherry, apple, and almond trees, leading you to the riverside within the Natura 2000 designated area.

Saint Eirini – Limeria

Area:

Saint Eirini

Length:

5km

Duration:

2.5 hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Linear

GPS:

Description

Access can be made at the location "Selladi of Stravorouthkia" through a dirt road from the village of Spilia, approximately 2km away, and the hiker can follow the route towards Limeria for 2km.

The path passes through a dense Aleppo pine forest with an excellent view of Morphou Bay and ends at Limeria. At Selladi of Stravorouthkia, it connects with the Kurdali-Limeria Path, and for 2km, they share the same route. It offers the opportunity to visit various hideouts used by the guerrillas during the liberation struggle of 1955-1959.

Selladi Tou Karamanli – Kannavia

Area:

Spilia

Length:

6km

Duration:

2.5hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Out & Back

GPS:

Description

Set off on a captivating 6.0km out-and-back trail located near Kannavia, Nicosia. Widely acknowledged as a challenging route, this trail typically requires an average of 2.5 hours to complete. Hiking enthusiasts frequent this trail, yet there are still moments of tranquility to be savored during quieter times of the day. For the most rewarding experience, plan your visit between April and December.

This splendid route, acclaimed as one of Cyprus's finest, commences on the road connecting the Spilia and Sarandi settlements, precisely at the Selladi tou Karamanli site. From there, it meanders southward and southeastward, guiding you through a lush black pine forest until you reach the Madari Fire Lookout Station. This vantage point, situated at an elevation of approximately 1575 meters, treats you to panoramic vistas in every direction. Your return journey follows the same road. Keep in mind that this trail poses a considerable challenge due to its terrain and steep changes in altitude. Additionally, it leads you towards the Tishia tis Madaris.

Tisia Tis Madaris

Area:

Chandria

Length:

3.5km

Duration:

1.5hours

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

Access to the starting point is available by vehicle from the Hantria - Polystypos road, heading towards Adelfoi Peak, which is 3km away. The road is paved up to the point where the trail follows the dirt road for 800m to the starting point.

High and impressive cliffs along the trail. It passes through an area with interesting geology. Excellent views of the Mesaoria plain and Morphou Bay. It is connected to the Madari - Doxa soi o Theos and Madari - Selladi of Karamanlis trails.

 

Xyliatos Dam

Area:

Lagoudera

Length:

4km

Duration:

1hour

Type:

Circular

GPS:

Description

The path follows the perimeter of the reservoir. From the starting point, there is access to the nearby picnic site. The dam itself offers a remarkable viewpoint with an ascending trail providing increasingly stunning views. Surrounded by the magical scenery of the dam, forest, and mountains, the hike is truly magnificent. The initial part is a bit demanding, but the rest of the route is manageable. Adjacent to the Xyliatos dam is the Xyliatos picnic area, just a few minutes away by car. There, you can enjoy a picnic and witness the unique and impressive waterfall during heavy rainfall and when the dam is full.

Xystarouda – Agiasma – Vasiliki

Area:

Gerakies

Length:

10.8km

Duration:

4hours

Difficulty:

Type:

Out & Back

GPS:

Description

The path passes through the location where the Agiasma (Holy Spring) of Panagia tou Kykkou springs forth and through dense forest vegetation, leading to the chapel of Vasilitzi (Agios Vasilios), which features icons of significant archaeological value. The hiker can continue the journey through an asphalt road toward the Monastery of Kykkos.

Note: The path can also be made circular if the hiker returns from the main road of Kykkos-Pedoulas to the excursion area of Xystarouda, with an additional route of 6.1km and a hiking time of 2-2.5 hours.

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