Nature
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| Hoopoe (Upupa epops) |
Tourists are not the only visitors that ‘flock’ to Cyprus... a variety of feathered friends – both migrating and indigenous – also favour the island, making it a birdwatching haven, and of particular significance on a conservation level for both the Mediterranean and Europe. Thanks to its unique location on the migratory route from Europe, Asia and Africa, Cyprus is a key breeding spot that sees around 250 million birds passing through the island each autumn and spring, including bright pink flamingos in their numbers and wild fowls that frequent the salt lakes of Larnaka and Lemesos. Predatory birds, sea gulls, herns, nightingales, hangbirds, ravens, chickadees and carrion buzzards – amongst others – also soar through in all their flighting glory. Aside from the salt lakes, the lake of Voroklini in Larnaka is a Special Protection Area (SPA) under the EU Birds Directive, and a Site of Community Importance (SCI) under the EU Habitats Directive.
Whilst still an emerging destination for climbing sports, Cyprus has all the elements of a great location for climbing, hiking and orienteering, thanks to its favourable weather conditions, stunning rugged backdrops, complex rock types, and the quality, variety and diversity of its climbing routes (both traditional and sport). All the relevant information for climbing sports on the island, along with the calendar of events, and important guidelines can be found on the website of the Cyprus Mountaineering, Climbing and Orienteering Federation of Cyprus (KOMOAA).
Sun & Sea
CTO Pyla Beach, Larnaka
Located in the Larnaka district of Pyla, along Dhekelia Road, the CTO beach of Pyla offers a complete day out for all the family, thanks to a host of facilities and the amenities of the surrounding area.
Set amidst an expanse of greenery, the sands are fine grey and the clean waters are calm and shallow, making the beach popular with all, including families with small children.
Coral Bay, Paphos
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| Coral Bay Beach |
The gorgeous Coral Bay is a great family-friendly choice. Kids love to play in the shallow and often wavy waters, adults can enjoy kicking back under the shade of the umbrella, while those with a penchant for water sports can spend hours out at sea. One of the best sandy beaches in the area, the summer season sees just about anyone and everyone – from teenage trendsetters, families and young couples – carve out their space on the popular strip. Luckily, the stretch is long enough to also accommodate those looking for a little respite away from the crowded hustle and bustle in the spots directly below the beach bars.
Health & Wellness
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| Hot Stone Massage |
Combining the allure of a sunshine island with first-rate healthcare facilities and attractive fees, Cyprus is fast becoming a favoured option for medical tourism. And with the added bonus of recuperating in relaxing surroundings that are conducive to healing, it is no wonder that an increasing number of patients are choosing the island for their treatments. Alongside conventional medical treatments – that take place in the comfort of modern hospitals and clinics – the island is also home to luxury spa resorts and rural retreats, where comfort and nature harmoniously intertwine with health. Pampering, holistic therapies, beauty treatments and a general sense of wellbeing are all invoked, along with the feeling of escaping and focusing solely on oneself… without the stresses or distractions of daily life.
Food & Drink
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| Halloumi |
The ritual of sharing good, fresh local cuisine is an important part of the island’s culture, and is intrinsically linked with every social event, from family gatherings and special occasions to religious festival each marked with its own distinct delicacies and recipes. From hearty meat dishes and specialty cheeses to unique desserts of carob and grape, the Cypriot cuisine is an exotic blend of Greek and Middle Eastern cultures, sprinkled with remnants of ancient civilisations such as indigenous Roman root vegetables or old Phoenician delicacies. And it is no secret that the ‘Mediterranean diet’ is considered to be of the healthiest, thanks to its abundance of heart-healthy olive oil, pulses, lean meat, local herbs and freshly grown fruits and vegetables. Add to this the favourable climate - that gives the fresh produce its intense flavour - and a celebration around every corner, complete with special treats, and you will find a big gastronomic adventure awaits on this tiny island!
Cypriot cuisine is the ‘meze’ – a variety of small dishes that combine to create a feast, and a good starting point to become acquainted with the local dishes, such as dips, braised, stewed and clay-cooked meats; local, freshly caught fish; pulses and legumes in various sauces; specialty cheeses and delicatessen cuts, and more unusual bites, all authentically prepared.
Weddings & Honeymoons
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| Coral Beach Hotel wedding |
Cyprus is one of Europe’s leading destinations for weddings, blessings and honeymoons, and is famed for its wonderful climate, beautiful scenery and myriad of options for venues, ceremonies and celebrations. From sundrenched vows and sacred ceremonies to newlywed adventures, Aphrodite’s island is love personified.
There are so many reasons why Cyprus wins the heart of couples wishing to marry abroad, including:
Culture & Religion
Cyprus is a small island with a long history and a rich culture that spans 10,000 years, making it one of the oldest civilisations in the Mediterranean - as evidenced by the many fascinating cultural sights, museums, monuments and galleries. Situated at the crossroads of three continents – Europe, Asia and Africa - the island’s unique geographic position has played an important part in its turbulent past since antiquity. Its Prehistoric Age inhabitants were joined 3500 years ago by the Mycenaean Greeks, who introduced and established their civilisation, thus permanently instilling the island’s Greek roots. Many other cultures followed thereafter, including Phoenicians, Assyrians, Egyptians, Romans, Franks, Venetians, Ottomans and British, who all left behind visible remnants of their passage, and have thus created a mosaic of different cultures and periods.
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| Cyprus Museum of Natural History |
As such, the island is an open-air museum of prehistoric settlements, classical Greek temples, Roman theatres and villas, Early Christian basilicas, Byzantine churches and monasteries, Crusader castles, Gothic cathedrals, Venetian fortifications, Moslem mosques, and British colonial-style buildings. The old ways of life, customs and traditions are still beautifully preserved in the rural villages, and interesting elements of the island are captured in the many museums and galleries. It is not surprising then that UNESCO includes a number of the island’s sights on its list of World Heritage Sites. Whilst the preservation of historical sites and riches is of the upmost priority for the island, these efforts are in stark contrast with the unfortunate reality that a large part of its cultural heritage remains under Turkish occupation since July 1974, and has been subjected to severe damage. But when visiting Cyprus, you will never have to look far to find a piece of its history and culture, whether you want to discover more about the traditions of the island, or immerse yourself in its captivating past.
Ayia Napa nights out are all centred around‚ The square, and this is where you and your mates will base yourself for a few pre-club drinks and cocktails. Check out Bazaar Bar for starters, where there are free shots with every drink‚ deal will get things started! Then maybe check out Ambassaden - one of the most popular pre-club venues on the island, with two floors of music and more cocktails and deals. After this, if you think it's time to show off your ambitious Tom Jones renditions, then head to the Seahorse Bar and its renowned karaoke nights!
Ayia Napa has a huge amount of clubbing options. There are over 20 clubs, and most of them host world-class DJs during their summer season. It's definitely worth trying out a few of them while you're there, but bear in mind that most don't open till 1am and go through till dawn. Check out Abyss for four floors of music, an open air chill-out area and, if you're feeling flush, their champagne lounge. They also hold the best foam parties on the island. And definitely check out the Castle Club: an Ayia Napa institution, it's been going since 1995 and has hosted pretty much every big name DJ since then. If you just can't get enough when the other clubs start winding down then head for Insomnia which, doesn't open till 4am and goes on well into the morning...
