Places Of Interest
Western Cyprus is a captivating destination that blends stunning natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture, making it an ideal spot for holidaymakers.
Beautiful Beaches
The western coast boasts some of the finest beaches in Cyprus, such as Coral Bay or Corallia Beach, known for their golden sands and clear turquoise waters. Other popular spots include Lara Beach, famous for its natural beauty and as a nesting site for loggerhead turtles. In Winter, you can enjoy a ski in the mountains in the morning, and swim in the turquoise blue sea or sunbathe on the beautiful golden sand in the afternoon.
Charming Towns:
Explore Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with ancient ruins and the famous Paphos Mosaics. You can stroll along the picturesque harbour, visit the Tombs of the Kings Archaeological site, and discover charming local restaurants, shops and the market located in the Old Town.
Stunning Nature:
The Akamas Peninsula is a nature lover’s paradise. With its rugged landscape, unique flora and fauna, hiking trails, Akavas Gorge, and opportunities for jeep safaris or boat trips, it’s perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and to view the stars by night. The Troodos mountains are a jewel in the Islands crown, with a plethora of traditional villages to explore including the Kykkos Monastery and the charming villages of Omodos and Platres.
Historical Sites:
Western Cyprus is rich in history. The ancient city of Kourion features impressive ruins and a stunning amphitheatre. Don’t miss the rich archaeological sites that tell the stories of various civilizations that have inhabited the island. En-route from Paphos do visit Aphrodite’s Rock.
Wine Region:
The area is also known for its vineyards and wineries. The Troodos Mountains offer scenic routes where you can taste some of the finest Cypriot wines and enjoy the beautiful landscape. More locally you will find some fabulous wineries such as Sterna, with its museum, Fikardos, Vasilikon and Kolios.
Warm Hospitality:
The local Cypriots are known for their friendliness and hospitality. You can experience authentic Cypriot cuisine in traditional tavernas, where you can savour dishes like meze, halloumi, and fresh seafood. In fact, you can find cuisines from around the world to temp your tastebuds.
Cultural Experiences:
Enjoy local festivals, carnivals, art exhibitions, and traditional ceremonies that reflect the Cypriot culture. The blend of Greek and Turkish influences creates a unique cultural experience. There is always something going on as each village celebrates its own festival at different times throughout the year.
Adventure Activities:
Western Cyprus offers a range of activities for adventure seekers, including water sports, hiking, mountain biking, quad biking, horse-riding, diving and amazing daytime boat trips. The beautiful coastline and varied terrain provide plenty of options for outdoor fun.
Sea Cruises:
Take a daytime or evening trip from the harbour in Paphos on the luxurious Ocean Vision, or why not try the Wavedancer with its lively entertainment and evening firework displays. The whole family might enjoy a fun-filled trip on a Pirate Ship which is a great hit with the children.
Latchi Port and Picturesque Harbour:
Venture a little further to the charming fishing village and harbour at Latchi. Approximately half an hour drive from Coral Bay, heading North, following the road signs for Polis.
Here you can charter your own self-drive boat from Latchi Watersports or take a half day boat trip to the stunning Blue Lagoon.
When you return from your boat trip, why not enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the many restaurants that line the harbour.
Enjoy sampling the locally caught fish or a traditional meze, topped off with a glass or two of local wine or beer.
Perfect !
Take a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon:
Board the ALKION II, a family-run business with a glass bottom boat which provides an informative journey to the stunning Blue Lagoon and its crystal clear blue waters where they stop for an hour or so for a swim or snorkel. You are assured of a warm welcome and they offer free use of masks, snorkels and flotation devices, and during the swim stop they will serve free wine and seasonal fruit from the onboard bar area.
Some of the nearby locations on the journey include:
The Baths of Aphrodite
St Georges Church
The island of St George
Blaji Bay
Manolis Bay
The Blue Lagoon
Trip times are: 10.30 – 1.30 2.00 – 5.00 5.00 – 8.00 pm (during the summer months)
*****
Whether you’re looking for relaxation on beautiful beaches, exploration of historical sites, or adventure in nature, Western Cyprus has something to offer every type of traveller.
So, relax and enjoy your holiday on this beautiful Island.
Don’t forget as you are driving through the countryside to watch out for the goats and Mouflon roaming freely around. This will probably be the only traffic hold-up you will encounter.
