There is more to Cyprus than just sunshine, jasmine-scented air, shimmering seas and superb beaches.
This island of Cyprus in the Med is somewhat of a seductress, able to entice with a sensory experience tailored to suit. Sunshine, jasmine-scented air, shimmering seas and superb beaches are the ideal conventional fun-in-the-sun holiday. Yet her Byzantine heritage beckons the inner tourist to actually brush off the sand and go touring, not to just her archaeological sights but also her vineyards to sample their sun-imbued nectar.
Away from the towns are superb nature trails that will awaken the part of you that wishes you were more of a trekker. On offer are paths through pine forests and around her twisty, curvaceous mountain paths are sensationally deep gorges such as the Akamantas Peninsula that give the illusion of descending deep into the earth. Green and loggerhead turtles live and lay their eggs on the Aphrodite Beach and her range of fauna and flora and even bird watching opportunities abound.
Should you decide to explore, make your base in Limassol and hire a car - the good news for Brits is that Cipriots drive on the left.
Here is a round-up of four most popular towns in Cyprus:
Ayia Napa
The reputation of this once remote fishing village says this is a raucous party town for hedonists. And in part it is true. International DJ’s and their cult followers beat a path to its clubs and booming bars open their doors during the summer months making this a prime site for nightlife.
Yet its gorgeous beaches, Nissi in particular, some say are the finest in Cyprus, and the magnificent rocky headland, quaint harbour, serene cloistered monstery, smart hotels and sublime fish restaurants all talk of relaxing holidays and luxuriant surroundings.
Find hotels in Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa is about 60 km from Larnaca Airport.
Limassol
Even though Richard the Lionheart married Princess Berengaria, daughter of the King of Navarre here in 1119, Limassol remains a bustling port town rather than a place of romance. For that you should head to Pafos.
