An island of extremes, rich and varied history, spectacular natural beauty and great outdoors, Cyprus is a dazzling travel destination between Europe and the Middle East and a great choice for those keen on a warm welcome. Boasting one of the best climates in Europe with over 300 days of sunshine a year, a classically Mediterranean landscape, fine cuisine and archaeology dating back ten thousand years, Cyprus promises eventful and fun-filled holidays that will make your return again and again.
From picturesque villages to wander and explore a slower pace of life, to numerous fabulous beaches and beautiful bays for sunbathing and relaxing, to the sophisticated nightlife of the thriving world-class Ayia Napa and Paphos resorts, Cyprus offers something for everyone, including nature lovers, history buffs and culture vultures, as well as adventure enthusiasts and sports fans. By legend the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, this fascinating island also brims with romance and legend, and it’s no wonder why many couples and honeymooners choose this place to spend their romantic once-in-a-life experience.
There is so much to see and do in this lively getaway that choosing a list of must-do activities is truly difficult. However, here are some of the most interesting things to in Cyprus adventure lovers will surely appreciate.
Ski on Mount Olympus
In a country best known for its year-round hot temperatures, it’s surprising how a bizarre and thrilling sport like skiing is available. Well, it really is, as anytime between Christmas and Easter, ski enthusiasts will find up to two meters of snow in the high Troodos Mountains – the island’s most beautiful and magnificent park with the highest point being Mount Olympus at 1952m. Best suited for novice, intermediate and advanced skiers, the destination offers 10 ski runs and several cross-county trails, as well as facilities, like restaurants, equipment hire shops and a ski school, where you can learn to ski or improve your skiing skills.
Visit the Baths of Aphrodite
Another popular activity visitors always indulge in Cyprus is to visit the Baths of Aphrodite, a cool pond located in the Akamas Peninsula near the little fishing village of Latchi, where according to legend, after swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Bay, the Goddess of Love used to take her bath. The place is surrounded by an amazing landscape and provides splendid views of the bay of Polis. There are many myths about the pools and one of them is that if one bathed in the water, he will be given eternal youth. However, at present nobody is allowed to enter the pools. The site can be reached by the nature trails of Akamas.
Hike Atalante, Kaledonia and Persephone
From challenging uphill climbs to effortless descents, hiking in Cyprus is a truly memorable experience that is among the list of the most popular activities. Ideal during springtime, when flowers are in full bloom, Cyprus hiking offers trails for all abilities, with Atalante, Kaledonia and Persephone being the most famous trails. The Atalante trail is 6 miles long and moves northwest before ending near a copper mine. After 2 miles, hikers will come to a spring with drinking water. The scenery is truly breathtaking. Only 1 mile long, the Kaledonia trail offers hikers less energy and follows the Cold River downhill to the enticing Kaledonia Waterfalls. The Persephone trail runs in a south eastern direction and offers numerous beautiful viewpoints. Aphrodite and Adonis in the Akamas area are also highly recommended nature trails.
Go Scuba Diving
Cyprus is also a great destination to indulge in fantastic scuba diving. The waters of Lemesos, Lernaka, Ayia Napa, Paphos and Cape Greco are blessed with great diving conditions and offer natural dive sites of great beauty, as well as various shipwrecks, including the most famous wreck of the Vera K, Zenobia shipwreck, which is around 200m long and lies at a depth of 16m to 42m and the wreck of the M/Y Diana, now home to large squid. Paphos is a great destination for both beginner and experienced divers and offers amazing marine life are unique photography opportunities. There are numerous dive centers that operate marine divers, not to mention the many shops, from where divers can get quality equipment.
Wine lovers will enjoy a visit to Limassol in the southwest of the island, the focus of Cyprus wine industry. If you are lucky to visit Cyprus in September, you’ll take part in the lively wine festival held in the town, with excellent local delicacies also on offer.
Most visitors to Cyprus prefer basking on the beach, visit the Byzantine churches in Troodos Mountains, go clubbing in Ayia Napa, watch Limassol Carnival or else golf on a number of courses year round. This and much more are waiting for you in the wonderful island of Cyprus.
