What’s On travels to Cyprus
Read on for a true Cypriot experience…
Welcome to a new series of What’s On travels to… Each month we’ll be bringing you a new destination from around the globe that we’re confident you’ll need on your travel bucket list.
This month, we head to Cyprus for a true Cypriot experience…
Things to do
Kourion Archaeological Site
Where: Lemesos
History and culture buffs are spoiled for choice when it comes to sites and museums to explore in Cyprus. Probably one of the most impressive archeological sites in Cyprus, Kourion’s magnificent theatre was built in the 2nd century BC. Today the theatre has been completely restored and is used for musical and theatrical performances. Visitors are welcome to stand on stage and experience the natural amplifying acoustics for themselves. Further excavation has unearthed the House Of Eustolios, a public recreation centre with baths, and 5th century AD mosaic floors that visitors are welcome to explore.
Lefkara Village
Where: Larnaca
Make a pitstop in the village of Lefkara located in the Larnaca region. The character of the village is very picturesque with its narrow, winding streets and traditional architecture of old, terracotta-roofed houses. Since medieval times, Lefkara has been known for its exquisite lace produced by village women, and for fine silverwork, and you can pick up a few beautiful–and competitively-priced trinkets here.
Ayia Napa Sculpture Park
Where: Ayia Napa
Located at the crossroads of Cape Gyreko and Kryou Nerou Avenue, the sculpture park and its adjoining cactus park offer a beautiful setting for a stroll. The sculpture park consists of a large collection of works by more than 50 artists from around the world.
Agios Lazaros Church
Where: Larnaca
The stunning 9th century stone church of Agios Lazaros was built by Byzantine Emperor Leo VI. Head inside and Saint Lazarus’ tomb can be seen under the sanctuary.
Birthplace of Aphrodite
Where: Pafos
The Petra tou Romiou or birthplace of Aphrodite is one of the most beautiful coastlines in Cyprus, where, according to mythology, Aphrodite the goddess of love and beauty rose from the waves. Intrepid explorers can scramble their way to the top of the rock for a killer view of the area.
Scuba dive
Where: Zenobia wreck
Many people consider this to be one of the best wreck diving sites in the Mediterranean. The Zenobia was on its maiden voyage to Syria in 1980, but the doomed vessel sank off Larnaca Harbour. If you don’t dive, you can also see it from a glass-bottomed boat. Try the Scuba Tech Diving Centre.
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3 must-visit beaches
Pissouri beach
Windsurfing and snorkeling are popular activities to try at this gorgeous stretch of coastline and you can rent equipment from any outfitter on the beach. Watch your step here as you’ll find rocks and pebbles mixed into
the sand.
Nissi beach
The sparkling clear water of Nissi Beach is divided by a sandy peninsular, taking you on an Instagram-worthy walk to the little islet of Nissi (which gives the beach its name). This famously lively Ayia Napa cove is also well served by beachside bars and restaurants with a view.
Konnos beach
Konnos is a hiker’s dream. After a long trek through the Cape Greco National Forest Park you can take a dip in the crystal-clear water at Konnos beach.
One for the foodies:
Home of Halloumi
For many, the highlight of a trip to Cyprus is indulging in its cuisine, which benefits from Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern influences, and the Cypriot speciality of halloumi cheese is a must. You’ll find it all across the island, including at the airport.
Where to stay
Nissi Beach Resort
Situated on a bay with one of the Cyprus’ finest white-sand beaches and turquoise blue waters, the comfortable four-star resort takes its name from the bay’s small island called Nissi. The resort itself is nestled among beautifully landscaped gardens, making it a lovely relaxing retreat away from the buzz of Ayia Napa nearby.
Rooms start at Dhs700.
Getting there
Emirates flies to Larnaca Airport for Dhs2,300 return (approx)
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