Located between Greece and Egypt, Cyprus is an idyllic holiday destination in the Mediterranean with plenty to offer. Here, tourists can enjoy a fantastic climate, golden sandy beaches and a rich local culture. Why not top off the experience by renting a villa here?
According to top statistics, tourism in Cyprus is approaching pre-pandemic figures, which shows how well the country has bounced back. In fact, there were around 1.3 million visitors in 2023 alone.
If you’re keen to discover what Cyprus has to offer, including lesser-known spots, there’s plenty to choose from. Here are some ideas to get the ball rolling.
Avakas Gorge
Keen to embark on a hiking trail during your trip? Avakas Gorge is a must. Situated in the Akamas Peninsula, the gorge offers several trails. You can navigate your way through narrow alleyways and clamber over huge boulders, all while taking in scenic views of the surrounding landscapes from various viewpoints. Make sure you look out for the glistening Mediterranean Sea.
Cape Greco
The turquoise waters of Cape Greco are an undeniable highlight of this unspoiled area in Cyprus. On top of this, there are sea caves aplenty on this rugged stretch of coastline. It’s a slice of tranquillity between the busier resorts in the area. A juniper forest used to cover this part of the island, however today, there is a wider spread of rare plant species that sit alongside the juniper and pine trees. You can even see wild orchids here.
Choirokoitia
Choirokoitia is a Neolithic settlement and is one of the most valuable archeological sites in this part of the world. There are excavations here as a result, where experts are uncovering key historical artefacts linked to the evolution of humans and society today. Only a proportion of it has been excavated so far, so there’s plenty to come. It’s no wonder that it’s been named a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Lara Bay
To inject a spot of wildlife into your trip, make sure you head to Lara Beach. It’s home to loggerhead turtles, which differ slightly from sea turtles. Conservation groups are committed to helping baby turtles hatch safely here, so it’s a truly special place to be. August is the best month for witnessing this. Beyond the excitement of the turtles, you can enjoy the serenity that this beach brings.
Lefkara Village
The village of Lefkara showcases a beautiful array of orange rooftops and traditional architecture amongst the Troödos Mountains, but did you know that it’s also famous for its lace? In fact, it’s known as the birthplace of Cypriot folk needlecraft. Find out all about this timeless craft and see people demonstrate it in person. You may even be tempted to buy something yourself.