And when you are talking about exploring Paphos Cyprus by car… well it gets a whole lot better!

Authors Note: Save The Planet

Akamas is an environmentally sensitive area, which should have been protected a long time ago – back when Cyprus entered the EU in 2004. As I have mentioned in numerous articles, irresponsible tourism often leads to the destruction of nature’s wonders, and Akamas is a part of this too. You can read more about it here.

When visiting such areas of immense beauty and wild nature, it is important to proceed with caution. Firstly, make sure your trip is eco-friendly.

• Keep all rubbish in your backpack or car and dispose of them safely.
• If you are a smoker, Carry a portable ashtray – the Cyprus heat often leads to fires and many of them are caused by cigarette buds!
• Drive safely, to avoid destroying precious flora and fauna
• Hike, walk, or use bicycles wherever possible
• Do not Litter the oceans – carry a stainless steel water bottle to also keep your water cold.
• Refrain from disrupting the wildlife. If you witness turtle hatching, please do not queue up for a photo opportunity – that is simply cruel!
• Read my guide on how to practice responsible tourism and ethical travel

Because this is not just any road trip!! Wild, unspoiled nature, and incomparable beauty. This is Akamas, this is Paphos and THIS is our Cyprus, which we must, by all means, protect, for ourselves, but also for the next generations!

In Paphos, we take on Cyprus by car seriously and travel many kilometers! Particularly, Pomos, Poli Chrysochous, Akamas, Neo Chorio, Arodes, Lysos, and Ayii Anargyroi!

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

Unspoiled, jaw-dropping beaches, views that take your breath away, wild nature safari, warm smiling people, and wonderful hotels and cottages!

No matter how many days you vacation in Paphos, it is never, ever enough! And that is why I bring you my personal favorite places to explore Cyprus by car right here!

Can you travel to Cyprus by car?

It is best to fly into Cyprus before embarking on your Cyprus road trip. However, if you are adamant about bringing a car, you could take a ferry from Greece or the Uk into Cyprus. Bear in mind that this will take 1-2 weeks in transit and cost you a few hundred euros in customs too!

Cyprus By Car – Is it easy to drive around Cyprus?

Yes it is! Because Cyprus used to be under British occupation, all roads and highways have English signs and are in great condition to drive on too. The only narrow streets you will find are in the villages (that are totally worth a visit by the way!).

The distanced arent too large – you can drive from one end of the island to the other in less than 4 hours – but there are literally thousands to do in between!

The only place I would recommend to ditch the bag and get a quad of a baggy is in some parts of the Akamas Peninsula. Keep reading for more info on that!

Are cars cheap in Cyprus?

To be perfectly honest – nop. If your goal is to explore Cyprus by car, then I would suggest renting an SUV. That way, you can safely visit forests, cities, and villages too.

An SUV during the summer months (high season) will set you back 50 euros per day without petrol. So that quickly adds up! Hence why I almost always recommend a road trip between 4 people as that puts the cost down a lot.

Also, please bear in mind that the public transportation system in Cyprus is practically non existent.

There are a few buses here and there – and special shuttles to the airports in Larnaca and Paphos etcetera. For info, you can read about it right here. So for a successful road trip, peace of mind, and comfort I would highly recommend renting a car!

Do you drive on the left in Cyprus?

Yes, in Cyprus we drive on the same side of the road as the UK. You can legally drive here with a full and valid UK driving license.

To rent a car in Cyprus, you must be at least 21 years old and you must have held your license for three years. Drivers under the age of 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. 

Cyprus By Car – Pomos

First up on your Cyprus By car itinerary should be Pomos! This village, lies about 20 km afar from Polis Chrysochous, on the way to Akamas peninsula.

It is a laid back, peaceful village and one of the remaining unspoiled and undisturbed areas of Paphos.

But this little gem boasts amazing coastline views and beautiful sandy beaches. The result? Well, an epic start of a road trip!

Dragon’s Cave – Pomos

First up is Dragon’s cave – a rocky area with a beautiful beach, just a few kilometers from the little port of Pomos.

According to tradition, it is told a dragon lived in the cave and protected the area from evil! There are a few steps that will take you down to the cave. You will love taking pictures of the intricate cave, rock carvings, and rocky beach!

Pomos Harbour

This small picturesque fishing harbor is great for a little stroll! Although I havent personally tried it, I was told that the food at the restaurant there is very good!

Cyprus by car – Akamas Safari

The Akamas National Park lies on the west coast of Cyprus, and it is without a doubt like nothing you have seen before! Untouched by humans and development (at least for now) its immense raw natural beauty will be left with you forever!

The peninsula is as vast as it is beautiful! It covers 230 square km of forest, valleys, gorges, beautiful coastlines, and sandy beaches.

The wildlife, as well as the flora and fauna, are abundant in Akamas. There are varieties of rare tulips, trees, birds, butterflies, and reptiles as far as your eye can see!

Akamas is also home to many incredible nature trails – so hikers will definitely plan to say a few days exploring it all!

Apart from hiking the nature trails, you want to explore the coastlines, gorges, valleys and viewpoints. For that, you either need to book an Akamas Safari!

Petrides Rentals – Akamas Safari

Petrides Rentals was a game changer! I honestly had the BEST 5 hours – and visited some places I wouldn’t have known to stop for if it wasn’t for their help!

We rented a 4 seat baggy, and It felt as sturdy and safe as a car! There are quads too if you prefer those, and maps giving you clear ideas of the numerous routes you can choose to explore Akamas!

We opted to have a guide with us – and it was the best decision ever!

For starters, it freed me of driving! As a result I could take more photos and videos and simply be in the moment and enjoy it! Secondly, Argyris is a walking Wikipedia of Akamas.

Born and raised in Akamas, the man knows every rock, road, and secret pathway to the best spots!

Moreover, he will happily tell you all about everything you are seeing! Argyri, you are incredible, and I thank you kindly!

Simply park your car at Petrides Rentals ( in Poli Chrysochous), rent a buggy or quad, and pick it up on your return!

Ready, set, GO and get ready for an adventure you are unlikely to forget!

Aphrodite’s wild beach

Some of the purest, most beautiful coastline in Cyprus can be found in Akamas, anywhere between Blue Lagoon and Aphrodite’s Baths.  Aphrodite’s wild beach is practically opposite the baths, right next to the restaurant.

To get to the beach you have to descend a staircase., which unfortunately means that this isn’t easily accessible for wheelchairs.

The view from above is incredible, and typically, I found other people eyeing up my Instagram-worthy spot on the little white patio to take pictures on haha!

The beach itself is gorgeous, with calm waters that make it ideal for snorkeling (something the area is known for). Once you get down there, there are numerous little hidden beaches both blue flag and not, but all as clean and beautiful as each other!

Aphrodite’s Wild Beach isn’t a blue flag beach but it does, however, have an on-duty lifeguard, some sun loungers, showers, and a restaurant.

Baths of Aphrodite  

If you didn’t know, Cyprus is also known as the birthplace of the Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love!

Aphrodite was actually rumored to have been born in Paphos, at the famous ”Petra you Romiou”.

In the Akamas Peninsula, just past the Latchi harbor, you can find Aphrodite’s baths and botanical garden

This natural grotto is shaded by lush greenery, flowers, and an old fig tree, and legend says, that the Ancient Greek Goddess Aphrodite used to bathe in the waters.

According to Greek mythology, Aphrodite met her lover Adonis here and they fell in love instantly

The site is linked to the Aphrodite Cultural Route, and there is a small nature trail at the entrance of the baths to your left. Don’t worry about missing it, it is clearly marked with signs!

Koufotripis Beach

I fell in LOVE with this spot! Hidden deep in the Akamas Peninsula, on the way to the Blue Lagoon, is this tiny little secret beach. I fell in love with it instantly, but beware! It is indeed tiny, so don’t take a large group over there!

Blue Lagoon -Cyprus By Car

Blue Lagoon is the largest natural bay in Akamas Peninsula and it is located in the center of the famous Akamas National Park.

This jaw-dropping lagoon has become one of the most popular spots in Cyprus! The reason? Just look at that dazzling, turquoise water and white sandy beach.

Amazing coves, coral reef life, fish, aquatic life, and shells are abundant here, so snorkeling is a must!

How to reach Blue Lagoon

Seeing as this is a huge attraction in Cyprus, there are daily boat trips to Blue Lagoon from Latchi Harbour. Blue Lagoon is a 45-minute sail from there, and you can choose a half-day, full-day, or sunset tour!

Of course, you can also access Blue Lagoon while on your Cyprus by car adventure – ie on your Akamas Safari! You will definitely need a quad, buggy, or four-wheel drive car for the ride. It is off-road and adventurous, but definitely doable!

Please bear in mind there are two ways of accessing the lagoon by car.

Fontana Amoroza

Cyprus By car – Moutti Tis Sotiras

WOW! Moutti tis Sotiras is 370m high and it rises directly above Akama’s north coast – dishing out, out of this world views of Akamas and Paphos right in front of your eyes!

It’s very difficult to explain the feeling of being there, with no sound around but the wind blowing in your ears and the sun giving life and color to what’s in front of you. It’s almost humbling, as you feel so small in the grand scheme of it all!

The mountain is made of limestone, and the road to it is rough. I suggest doing it with a quad or buggy as part of your Akamas Safari!

Latsi Harbour

Latchi harbor is a gorgeous port, where the fishermen still bring in the fresh catch of the morning!

It is practically unheard of, to go to Latchi and not eat fish! Therefore, a little stop at the many tavernas around the harbor is just the ticket for those hungry bellies!

A traditional Cyprus fish meze should set you back around 24-35 euros per person. The menu is fixed into many smaller plates to share (think tapas, but better!) If a restaurant charges more, don’t eat there, and find somewhere else!

There are also a few kiosks for essentials, but keep on driving to Polis if you require something else.

Poli Chrysochous – otherwise known as Polis is the closest town, situated just 2km away. There you can find large supermarkets, and a larger choice of restaurants, etc.

Ayii Anargyroi Natural Healing Spa Resort

Relaxation, wellness, and luxury! The Ayii Anargyroi Natural Healing Spa Resort offers a unique escape to an oasis of thermal baths and spas, beautiful flower and fruit tree gardens and fish ponds.

The Rooms

The rooms are dreamy and made for relaxation! The hotel is completely renovated with stone, wood, and earthy colors – a perfect blend of traditional and modern.

The beds are impossible comfortable, the views are impecable, and at my bungalow, both the jacuzzi and the shower use thermal water, so essentially, you have your own private spa in your room!

Everything is decorated in style, plenty of wood and white colors soothed my eyes. I was instantly relaxed upon entering this bungalow (I stayed in number 46).

You will find yourself drawn to the serenity of the room! Some jacuzzi time, book reading in the veranda amidst the sounds of birds chirping, and of course, deep, blissful sleep.

The Spa

At the spa, we experience the magic of the area’s thermal waters, which give life to our joints and muscles! It really is a special and one-of-a-kind experience.

The spa is huge and just stunning. There are three treatment pools with natural spring water in varying temperatures for kinesiotherapy, rheumatology, and phlebology.

Moreover, there are medical spa treatments for conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, gout, and joint pain. Additionally, you can choose wellness treatments including face and body care, massage therapies, fitness and physiotherapy.

A little note that’s worth mentioning! The relaxation/meditation room after the spa is one of the most beautiful ones I have seen in Cyprus. Given the fact I travel so much, this says a lot!

The Food

Well, take a look at any one of my articles, and you won’t be surprised I’m talking about food..again! Yeap, you knew this was coming! I loved the food here, and I tried both the breakfast, lunch and dinner service.

Breakfast is different at Ayii Anargyroi. There is a small buffet of breads, nuts, cheeses etc (basically a continental breakfast) that everyone helps themselves to.

Additionally, upon being seated, there is an a la carte menu to choose cooked dishes too. There are options like fried eggs, poached eggs, omelets, and chocolate crepe.

In fact, you can choose one than one hot dish per person. And it is all included in the price of your breakfast. Don’t forget to up your vitamins with a delicious fruit smoothie!

As a responsible traveler who advocated for ethical tourism, I applaud this initiative as it keeps gluttony at bay ( and helps my waistline escape my greedy eyes).

Most importantly, it reduces the tons of wasted food that hotels all around the world are throwing in the trash every day!

Dinner was phenomenal! -it was served in the outdoor restaurant with views of the pool.

There was a set 4- course menu when I visited the hotel.

I sampled puff pastry with mushrooms, stuffed pepper with feta cheese, and pomegranate and avocado salad!

Then came the mains, a choice between creamy ravioli with cream cheese, and sundried tomato, and lamb with cauliflower puree!

Desserts were fruits, lava cake, and walnut cake. Yum!

Delicious, even more so, with the hotel’s bespoke red wine ”Ierampelos” – which is produced from the owner’s own vineyards!

CHECK OUT THE AVAILABILITY OF AYII ANARGYROI HERE

Argaka Bridge

Instagram-worthy sunset views? Check! Look no further than Argaka Bridge, which’s located 7 km northeast of Polis Chrysochous.

The bridge provides the kind of perfect instagrammable background that will photograph beautifully, at all hours of the day. But like, I said, those sunset views are pretty special!

Karydhia Cottage Villa, Pano Arodes

If you fancy booking a stay as a group, then Karhydia cottage villa is an excellent choice! I loved my stay here!

Karydhia is a three-bedroom cottage villa with its own parking, sunbathing terrace, and an outdoor pool in the pretty village of Arodes, 3 km from Kathikas.

Inside the villa, you will find 3 rooms with a kitchenette, a dining area, and a living room. The open plan kitchen and dining area are decorated beautifully with traditional Cyprus artifacts from generations past!

The house, although modern, still holds its traditional character with plenty of wood and stone!

The master bedroom is en-suite and has its own shower and WC. The second bedroom has a double bed and the third is a room with 2 single beds.

All three bedrooms have individual and well-working AC units, although I didn’t use mine! Even in June the climate is perfect in Arodes!

The villa can essentially accommodate up to 6 people so it is perfect for families or groups of friends!

You can easily cook here, as the kitchen is fully equipped!

BOOK KARYDHIA COTTAGE VILLA HERE

Pano Arodes Village – Cyprus By Car

The village of Pano Arodes is stunningly positioned on the Laona plateau, at the edge of the Akamas Nature Reserve. It leadss down to the breathtaking Avakas Gorge and the coast.

Its location is perfect, as it’s situated close enough to drive to Kathikas, Polis, Pomos, Akamas and so much more!

IIts a small and tranquil village filled with plenty of greenery, vineyards, and stone houses. Furthermore, you will find a cute village square that always looks immaculately clean!

Religious tourism is also possible here – as the village is of high importance.

Here you will find what is believed to be the only church in the world dedicated to Agios Kalandionas. The saint just so happens to be the patron saint of Arodes!

Lysos Village – Cyprus By Car

Another sleepy village close enough to Akamas is Lysos, a village with interesting architecture, and comfortable cooler climate.

Paphos airport is 46km and Akamas is 34km drive. You can drive to Paphos for a night out or a summer party in 30 km too.

While in Lysos you can enjoy horse riding at Marias Horse Trekking and delicious Cyprus lunch at Erotokritos Tavern

Marmaras Guest House

If Lysos sounds like your vibe, you could book a stay at Marmaras! This large and beautiful space can be used as a Conference space and/or Agrotourism accommodation.

It is located in the center of the village of Lysos, with modern facilities for conferences.

It has the capacity of hosting up to 15 persons. Of course, the complex can be rented as a whole or separately as studios.

The multipurpose space at the entrance is super modern and inviting. The space can be shared by all private studios, as well as the courtyard.

Many yoga groups and retreats host their events here and I can see why! It’s so tranquil and well organized, it immediately puts your mind at ease!

The Rooms at Marmaras

You have a choice of 4 studios to book! All 4 studios are disabled-friendly too, with a Raised Toilet Lower Sink Toilet with Grab Rails.

Katoi Studio: Katoi studio is the largest studio! It consists of 2 modern rooms that can host up to 5 people.

Makrynari. This is a spacious studio with a fireplace with 1 double bed and a sofa bed for two more people. It can accommodate up to 4 people. 

Anoi: Anoi studio is a spacious studio with 2 single beds, and an extra sofa bed that can accommodate up to 2 adults. It also boasts its own wood stove and private small terrace

Palataki: Palataki studio is the smallest but coziest little studio, perfect for a couple, especially in wintertime. The studio has its own kitchenette and fireplace too.

So whether your vibe is Hiking, Cycling, Sea adventures, Nature exploring, Horse riding, or simply stargazing… Keep Marmaras on your mind as your base!

CHECK AVAILABILITY IN MARMARAS

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Related Cyprus Articles

Tia Does Agrotourism Series – Discovering Cyprus

• 1. Episode 1 Wine Villages in Paphos – Cyprus Agrotourism in Pano Panayia, Letymbou, Lemona and Amargeti (And Video)
• 2. Episode 2 Culture, Nature and Wine in Kathikas, Arodes and Akamas Peninsula in Paphos (And Video_)
• 3. Episode 3 Omodos, Arsos and Ayios Amvrosios – the most picturesque villages in Limassol (And Video)
• 4. Episode 4 Vouni, Lofou and Koilani Villages – exploring Limassol Province (and Video)
• 5. Episode 5 Kalopanayiotis, Kykkos, and Pedoulas – Nicosia’s hidden village gems! (and Video )
• 6. Episode 6 Agrotourism in Cyprus – Farmakas, Palaichori, and Askas – Wine, Safari, and Nature! (and Video )
• 7. Episode 7 Tochni, Choirokitia, and Kalavasos – Basket Weaving, history, and cycling activities! (and Video)
• 8. Episode 8 Lefkara, Kato Drys, and Vavla – Lefkara lace designs, wineries, brunch, and bees! (and Video)
• 9. Season 2 Episode 1 Pelendri and Agros Cyprus – Rose factories, wineries, brunch, and religious tourism ( and Video)
• 10. Season 2 Episode 2 – Platres Cyprus and Pera Pedi – A nature lover’s paradise (and Video)
• 11. Season 2 Episode 3 – Paliometoxo and Nikitari – A gorgeous farm and religious tourism (and video)
• 12. Season 2 Episode 4 – Lympia, Skarinou, and Agios Theodoros – Street Art, donkey farms, and hiking trails (And Video)
• 13. Season 2 Episode 5 – Kakopetria and Galata – Nature, traditional architecture, and fantastic food (And Video)
• 14. Season 2 Episode 6 – Kyperounta – Wineries, hiking and religious tourism in Limassol (and Video)
• 15. Season 2 Episode 7 – Akamas and Paphos – Safari, nature and incredible landscapes ( and Video)

Exploring Cyprus Content

• When to Visit Cyprus – A guide to choosing the season to visit Cyprus
• Where to stay in Cyprus – The Best hotels And Cottages In The Villages
• Cyprus Meze – The best Cyprus Taverns in the Villages and Mountains of the island!
• Cyprus Travel Blog – Everything you need to know to visit Cyprus. Start with this first if you are not local!
• A city by city guide to Cyprus. Decide which city in Cyprus suits you best!
• Incredible food in Cyprus to try. You will most likely drool at this article!
• Edem’s Yard – Best Brunch in Cyprus – Larnaca. The best brunch spot in Cyprus- hands down!
• Hamam Omeriye – Stunning Turkish baths in the heart of Nicosia– A Hamam Experience you are unlikely to forget!
• The best beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras. The best blue flag beaches on the island – say hello to paradise!
• Cyprus Passport Visa Free Countries – Travel to paradise without a visa!

Beautiful Seaside Hotels in Cyprus

• Hotel Napa Suites – Gorgeous, Central, with infinity pools
• Almyra Hotel Paphos – Luxury, elegance, and class.
• King Jason Hotel Protaras – Modern, central, fun, breathtaking!
• Napa Mermaid – The most incredible hotel in Ayia Napa– Looking for a proper hotel in Napa? Say no more!
• Apartment for rent in Protaras – Sofias Seaview review. A gorgeous apartment in the heart of Protaras square!
• Protaras Villas – The Incredible Villa Oniro. A huge and luxurious villa in Protaras!
• Limassol Hotels – A Beautiful stay at The Crowne Plaza Limassol. A modest hotel in Limassol that you will highly appreciate!
• Alasia Boutique Hotel- Luxury and elegance. Elegance and understated luxury in the quiet part of Limassol

The post Cyprus By Car – Amazing Road Trip To Akamas, Paphos appeared first on Tia Does Travel.

Watch Episode 1 of ”Tia Does Agrotourism” here!

Cyprus is so much more than buzzing nightlife and paradisical beaches. It is historic, complex, and mysterious, filled with history and culture. It shines in all its simplicity and grace, and it proves, that Agrotourism Cyprus has a lot more to offer than meets the eye.

Therefore I have proudly partnered up with the Official Agrotourism Office in Cyprus alongside the Deputy Ministry of Tourism. Our goal is simple. To make you fall in love with our little island. To get you to explore, discover, and unwind in nature, culture, and simplicity!

In this article, we will focus on Wine Route 2, a combination of picturesque wine villages in Paphos, that when combined, provide the backbone of the winemaking industry in Cyprus. Here, we will discover the culture, nature, and exquisite food and wine! The small distance between the villages makes them ideal for a road trip!

Agrotourism Cyprus – Kallepia

Where to stay:

Agrotiko Traditional Houses

Situated in a garden outside Kallepeia village in Pafos District, you will find Mrs Demetra and her Agrotiko Traditional House. This stone-built complex of traditional apartments features 2 One-bedroom Apartments and 3 Two-bedroom Apartments with a balcony offering views of the vineyards. All the houses share a large swimming pool, and a large, gorgeous garden with plenty of shade and BBQ facilities.

All of the houses are fully equipped as well as quaint, sparkling clean, and furnished with local artifacts. Additionally, you’ll have free and fast wifi as well as satellite TV throughout the complex.

The real star here though is Mrs. Demetra aka my grandma from another mama who fed us consistently throughout our time there! Cheese pies, traditional sweets, and homemade lemonade were just a few of the things she insisted we eat as soon as we arrived, a kind gesture I will always cherish!

Distances:

• Paphos City: 12 km
• Tsada Gold Couse: 2 km
• Wineries – plentiful within a 5-minute drive
• Paphos Airport: 31 km
• Larnaca Airport: 144 km
• Letymbou Village – 5 mins

Highlights in Kallepia

• Hiking in beautiful nature
• Brunch at Kikas Garden – for an original authentic Cypriot breakfast!
• Nature trails
• Traditional taverns

Agrotourism Cyprus – Letymbou

Straight after Kallepia Village, I hopped on over to Letymbou, a beautiful village 5 minutes’ drive away. Letymbou is only 12km from Paphos City!

I typically couldn’t wait to tuck into lunch, so I head straight to Sofia and Andreas Traditional House!

Sofia and Andreas Traditional House Restaurant

This is an experience you HAVE to live! Ms. Sophia and her husband Andreas turned their home into a traditional Cypriot taverna, and a small museum showcasing exactly what Cypriot houses used to look like a hundred years ago. The house is filled to the brim with Cypriot artifacts, vintage devices, traditional clothing, and more!

Sofia and Andreas welcome you with open arms – they bake their own bread, cook their own halloumi cheese (One of the highlights of Cypriot cuisine) – all of which you can observe in the gorgeous courtyard. Scrumptious meals are prepared fresh on the wood fire oven in the courtyard and served with a smile and the kind of Cypriot hospitality we are known for.

I consider myself lucky to help Sofia knead bread, make halloumi cheese, and work the wood fire oven, before indulging in a full-on Cypriot feast! A magical experience, that I am truly grateful for! Thank you Sofia and Andreas – I cannot wait to be back!

Seeing as no drop-ins are allowed, please call ahead and reserve at 99995961

Winery Feature: Makarounas Winery

After an excellent meal, comes some excellent wine, and Letymbou did not disappoint! Introducing Makarounas Winery and located just a few steps away from Sofia’s. At Makarounas, I met Theo – a fascinating guy my age, whose passion for the winery he started in 2016 shines through instantly. I instantly thought- wow! How does a man so young, manage to do so much? To have such a vision and follow it through to the end? And I guess the answer is easy – determination and sheer love for your craft can work wonders if you have a supportive family behind you. And Theodoros has all of the above!

Now back to the winery behind the man! Makarounas is the only winery in Cyprus that sources grapes solely from their privately owned vineyards. You will find the vineyards at an altitude of 400-600 m, and they produce varieties of Xynisteri, Morokanella, Spourtiko (whites) and Maratheftiko, Yiannoudi, and Lefkada (reds). I am a total red wine lover, and Maratheftiko was incredibly smooth, and easy on the palate, even in the midst of the Cypriot summer! You can arrange a wine tasting session at Makarounas Winery, speak to Theo, visit the vineyards, and enjoy wine and local produce on location, highly recommended!

Letymvou Highlights

• Eat at Letymvou Tavern – 26 642614
• Visiting the Heroes Monument
• An Impressive amount of beautiful Churches and chapels – 7 to be exact!
• Witness the making of traditional products: Halloumi Cheese, Trachanas, Resi (a strong drink), Sioutzoukos, and more!
• Views of Ezousa River

Agrotourism Cyprus – Amargeti

After feasting in Letymbou, it was time to get to Amargeti to check-in to my accommodation and get some much-needed rest! Amargeti is a quaint village of unique beauty with magnificent archaeological findings.

 Here you’ll find old houses, narrow alleys, and traditional water taps made of local stone. The village is filled with vineyards, chapels, and eucalyptus, apple, pear, and almond trees! The village residents are laid back, and usually work in agriculture, vineyards, or in the production of ”Zivania” – a strong Cypriot spirit that the village produces a lot of!

Where to Stay: Kaizer Agrotourism

I really loved my stay here, and I was positively impressed by the standard of the rooms, and the hospitality of Eleni and her children Aggelos, Troodia, and Giota, who help her run it all smoothly.

Kaizer Agrotourism offers old stone houses – beautifully renovated, preserved, and furnished! The rooms are named after members of the family ( a personal touch i loved!) like the “Despina” suite – which is where I stayed – the “Eleni” suite and “Neophytou” Economy room. The suites are overlooking the outdoor wellness ozone spa pool with natural salt, and the lush green garden with a huge olive tree providing share in the center. Furthermore, you’ll find outdoor seating areas, both for sunbathing, dining and relaxing. Here, you will often Eleni, a fantastic woman eager to tell you all about the history of this establishment and how it came to be the family’s business.

The Rooms

The rooms at Kaizer Agrotourism are impeccable and sparkling clean! The bed is traditional – the kind of beds you have to climb to get into. I actually slept so soundly I woke up an hour late and almost missed my 1st appointment! Other perks include a safe box, A/C, Central heating, fireplace (Eleni Suite), fridge, towels, and Kitchenette (in the suites)

Agrotourism Cyprus – Lemona

Tsangarides Winery

The stone-built Tsangarides winery welcomed me with open arms – and a perfect time; it was harvest time, and everyone was busy, happy, and excited. As a result, I couldn’t help but get carried away in the enthusiasm of it all too! A year’s worth of work is what the harvest results to; and that’s pretty exciting!

The Tsangarides vines nestle and thrive amongst some of the most picturesque scenery in Paphos, and cover over 100 Thousands square meters of organic vineyards, making them the biggest on the island. Organic mature reds, fresh roses and crisp whites are the fruits of the labor of many men and women here!

Nearby villages you MUST pop into for excellent pictures and sightseeing

Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery. A grande and impressive monastery dedicated to the Virgin Chrysorrogiatissa. This tranquil and peaceful monastery attracts a great deal of faithful Christians from all around the world!

Kannaviou Dam. One of the most beautiful dams on the island – that can easily be mistaken for a natural lake! You will find it located just by the villages of Asprogia and Kannaviou, and just a few kilometers away from the village of Panayia. 

Stavros tis Psokas.

A fantastic spot in the Paphos Forest, and near Kannaviou dam! Excellent for camping, picnics, and wildlife enthusiasts. Paphos Forest is a dense forest area where wildlife thrives, particularly the endangered Agrino (Mouflon) which you can see early in the morning and in the afternoon when it cools down! The journey to Stavros tis Psokas from any direction is very beautiful. You will pass through beautiful forests, pines, and plane trees and enjoy the fresh air and landscape.

Statos- Ayios Fotios Village

The making of traditional products

Statos-Ayios Fotios is located on an altitude of 950 meters and surrounded by gorgeous green scenery. The beauty of the natural scenery and the hospitality of the residents establish this community as an ideal destination! The hardworking people of the village produce apples, grapes, pears, peaches, cherries, raisins, walnuts, and almonds. Here, you can taste, cold cuts, dairies, “trachana”, “soutzouko” and spoon sweets in person. I met up with Michail Kimonos, the community council president, a fascinating man! He took me to the factories, to witness the making of Trachanas Soup ( made from grain and fermented milk) and soutzouko – (A traditional sweet made from grape must, nuts and flour) Almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts, are threaded onto a string, dipped in thickened grape juice or fruit juices and dried in the shape of a sausage.

A plethora of visitors visits the village during its annual Agricultural Festival. (next date 19th September 2021). Visitors will have the opportunity to taste the products of the village, visit the wineries, see the preparation of its traditional products, and enjoy a rich traditional cultural program. Furthermore, Children enjoy various activities such as face painting, watercolor painting, and clay sculpture making!

Agrotourism Cyprus – Pano Panayia

Winery Feature: Vouni Panayia Winery

At Vouni Panayia, they sure know all about wine. In fact, they are the first local family-owned winery in Cyprus (since 1987) I was thoroughly impressed by the sheer knowledge of Yiannis, who seamlessly combines science with an acute passion for Cypriot wine. I have never seen someone so totally in tune with what they do for a living! As a result, his passion was infectious! For instance, the lengths they go to, to preserve the quality of their wine are admirable, and makes me appreciate the craft even more!

Vouni Panayia winery is a strictly family business passed on from generation to generation. As a result, the people at Vouni Panayia, blend tradition with innovation and experience, to create quality wines, that will soon become favorites of yours.

For starters, I was impressed to realize their commitment to the local produce! No French or Italian grapes or varieties here; at Vouni from selected grapes of 8 indigenous varieties cultivated in the winery’s vineyards, that carry all the history and characteristics of Cyprus. These are:

The whites: Xynisteri, Promara, Spourtiko, Morokanella, Vasilissa

The Reds: Mavro, Maratheftiko, Yiannoudi

After a tour of the indoors and the cellars, we hopped into a car and were driven through the 35-hectare vineyards – before catching one of the best sunsets I have witnessed, 1100 meters high at the top of the hill! Incredible wine, fresh halloumi, home-grown tomatoes, and passionate people all around me. Truly magical, and probably the highlight of my road trip!

Agrotourism Cyprus – Episkopi Village

Where to stay: Piskopos House

In Episkopi Paphos, lies Piskopos House – a beautiful family home in a tranquil, peaceful setting in the hills, 11km from Pafos. The setting is an ideal base for exploring this beautiful and unspoiled region, – you are only 10-15 minutes from Paphos and the highway! Here, you will experience complete tranquillity in an authentically traditional area, with all modern living comforts like a private swimming pool, wifi, and large veranda and garden. Perfect for family and small group gateways, Piskopos House is your home away from home!

Episkopi Paphou Highlights

• Episkopi Rock Sightseeing
• Visit the Environmental Centre
• Kourion Museum. History lovers rejoice! At Kourion Museum you will find many historical treasures, like terracotta objects from Ancient Kourion and the Sanctuary of Apollon Ylatis .
• Swim at Zapallo Bay
• Eat Tavas (lamb stew, tomatoes, potatoes) at ‘Old Stables”
• Climbing and Hiking

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Thank you for exploring Agrotourism Cyprus with me! If you are Cypriot, I hope I have managed to do our island justice; and i hope I have inspired you to get in the car and explore these gems as I did!

If you are planning to visit Cyprus, I hope I have shed some light on the rich agrotourism scene on the island. This is something sadly often overlooked by travelers! Above all, Cyprus has a lot more to offer than what initially meets the eye, therefore I cannot wait to take you along on my journey in the upcoming months!

Love, Tia x

Related Cyprus Articles

Tia Does Agrotourism Series

• 1. Episode 1 Wine Villages in Paphos – Cyprus Agrotourism in Pano Panayia, Letymbou, Lemona and Amargeti (And Video)
• 2. Episode 2 Culture, Nature and Wine in Kathikas, Arodes and Akamas Peninsula in Paphos (And Video_)
• 3. Episode 3 Omodos, Arsos and Ayios Amvrosios – the most picturesque villages in Limassol (And Video)
• 4. Episode 4 Vouni, Lofou and Koilani Villages – exploring Limassol Province (and Video)
• 5. Episode 5 Kalopanayiotis, Kykkos, and Pedoulas – Nicosia’s hidden village gems! (and Video )
• 6. Episode 6 Agrotourism in Cyprus – Farmakas, Palaichori, and Askas – Wine, Safari, and Nature! (and Video )
• 7. Episode 7 Tochni, Choirokitia, and Kalavasos – Basket Weaving, history, and cycling activities! (and Video)
• 8. Episode 8 Lefkara, Kato Drys, and Vavla – Lefkara lace designs, wineries, brunch, and bees! (and Video)

Exploring Cyprus Content

• When to Visit Cyprus – A guide to choosing the season to visit Cyprus
• Where to stay in Cyprus – The Best hotels And Cottages In The Villages
• Cyprus Meze – The best Cyprus Taverns in the Villages and Mountains of the island!
• Cyprus Travel Blog – Everything you need to know to visit Cyprus. Start with this first if you are not local!
• A city by city guide to Cyprus. Decide which city in Cyprus suits you best!
• Incredible food in Cyprus to try. You will most likely drool at this article!
• Edem’s Yard – Best Brunch in Cyprus – Larnaca. The best brunch spot in Cyprus- hands down!
• Hamam Omeriye – Stunning Turkish baths in the heart of Nicosia– A Hamam Experience you are unlikely to forget!
• The best beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras. The best blue flag beaches on the island – say hello to paradise!
• Cyprus Passport Visa Free Countries – Travel to paradise without a visa!

Beautiful Seaside Hotels in Cyprus

• Hotel Napa Suites – Gorgeous, Central, with infinity pools
• Almyra Hotel Paphos – Luxury, elegance, and class.
• King Jason Hotel Protaras – Modern, central, fun, breathtaking!
• Napa Mermaid – The most incredible hotel in Ayia Napa– Looking for a proper hotel in Napa? Say no more!
• Apartment for rent in Protaras – Sofias Seaview review. A gorgeous apartment in the heart of Protaras square!
• Protaras Villas – The Incredible Villa Oniro. A huge and luxurious villa in Protaras!
• Limassol Hotels – A Beautiful stay at The Crowne Plaza Limassol. A modest hotel in Limassol that you will highly appreciate!
• Alasia Boutique Hotel- Luxury and elegance. Elegance and understated luxury in the quiet part of Limassol

The post Agrotourism Cyprus – The Beautiful Wine Villages Of Paphos appeared first on Tia Does Travel.

From the cool adults-only sanctuary of Almyraspa to cuisine-fusion dining with soaring sea views! To the design-led chill spaces and sophisticated sundowners at Helios Lounge Bar! This is Almyra!

So without further ado, let me transport you to an oasis. A hotel that goes above and beyond to offer luxury, comfort, peacefulness, and a big slice of Cypriot culture to its visitors. Alternatively, watch the video from my Almyra experience!

BOOK THE HOTEL HERE

How did the renovation change the hotel?

French designer Joëlle Pléot, led the extensive renovations and fully transformed the rooms and suites using custom-made sleek and contemporary furniture.

From the minute you enter the hotel, all you encounter is chic, clean lines, muted browns, and splashes of the kind of blue Cyprus is so well known for! All this is beautifully surrounded by art – LOCAL ART. Thanos Hotels and Resort’s commitment to the community shines through! This is why local craftsmen created handmade oak and olive tree tables and accessories with other soft furnishings using silk and leather.

Paphos Holidays – Almyra Hotel – The Lobby

The lobby is huge, but somehow remains warm and welcoming. The staff is excellent and speak both Greek and English – a touch I highly appreciate as a Cypriot customer! You will find private booths with computers, sitting rooms, and conference halls. Additionally, there is a bar as well as a huge veranda – all of which is fitted with new bespoke furniture and lighting injecting a lease of new life into the public spaces. You will check-in quickly, and efficiently. Straight away, friendly staff will give you a tour of the hotel, and your room/suite. Your luggage will arrive at your door in no time of course! Its swift, efficient, easy – exactly as I like it!

BOOK THE HOTEL HERE

Almyra Hotel -The Rooms

The nautical theme continues with artwork by local photographer Michalis Kouloumos depicting scenes from the seafront of Paphos. Smart tv’s in all rooms provide a modern touch! Lastly, all of the bathrooms are fitted with brand new luxurious Italian Carrara marble walk-in showers.

My room came with a beautiful garden and sea view veranda, along with two private sunbeds – heaven! Muted browns, blues, and white are the main colors, and they seamlessly blend together to make the space feel large, fresh, and relaxing! The beds are so super luxurious and comfortable. I would happily spend the entire day in that room, having breakfast in bed! Every amenity you would expect from a luxury hotel is here. All this and more, makes the rooms a HUGE plus for any worthy Paphos Holidays trip.

Paphos Holidays – Almyra Hotel -The pools

Yes, pools with an s – because Almyra Hotel boasts not one, not two, but 3 outdoor glorious pools. Additionally, one of the pools is an adults-only infinity pool – DROOL. Want your Paphos Holidays to come with views for days? I’ve got you covered!

BOOK THE HOTEL HERE

Paphos Holidays – Almyra Hotel – The restaurrants

You all know by now, I am practically obsessed with food! Bad food service can make or break my holiday! Luckily for me, the Almyra Hotel did not disappoint!

Aeras Restaurant – Breakfast Service

Aeras Restaurant overlooks the sea and pools and serves beautiful buffet breakfast. Due to covid, all cooked dishes and drinks are ordered a la carte and served on the table. I actually loved the simplicity of it. There is a bit of everything and all of it is high quality and cooked well. Forget about cold eggs, dry bacon or bad quality coffee!

Notios Zen Restaurant – Asian Fusion and International cuisine

I am absolutely OBSESSED with this chic and beautiful restaurant that offers both lunch and dinner service! What impressed me the most wasn’t the stellar food and wine, but the service, both in and out of the kitchen. I suffer from IBS which leaves me allergic to many foods, and my friend is vegan. Not only did they single out the dishes that we couldn’t eat, but they also REMADE them for us using only ingredients we can consume!

This is the first hotel I have reviewed that went out of their way to accommodate my food sensitivities in such a way, and I am beyond grateful and impressed!

Here is the menu I had for dinner. I actually found everything truly delicious! Although the black cod, the beef, and the panna cotta were a solid 11/10 for me – deeeeeelicious!

                                       DINNER

• Orientale salad with sesame soy dressing (K, Y, G)
• Vegetable spring roll with sweet and sour sauce (V, G, Y)
• Prawn tempura with spicy tomato jam (B, Y, G)
• Black cod fillet served with cashews and lime crust,
• Grill Chinese cabbage, pickled ginger, spicy miso. (F, N, Y, K)
• Beef fillet with shitake mash potatoes and teriyaki sauce (A, Y, K)
•  Vegetable curry with lemongrass jasmine rice(V)
• Pasion fruit panna cotta (D)
• Fresh fruits

BOOK THE HOTEL HERE

Ouzeri Restaurant – Greek Food

This traditional and quaint Greek tavern can be found on Almyra’s beach just a few steps away. Live Greek music, beautiful ice cold wine and a lunch menu that transported me to a Greek island were some of the things i loved the most! Ouzeri is perfect for lazy and relaxing days. Especially when all you need is delicious Greek meze and the ocean right in front of you!

This is the lunch menu I tasted!

• Village salad
• Louvi me kolokythakia (black eyed beans)
• Selection of dips and bread
• Anthoi gemistoi ( stuffed vine leaves)
• Haloumokeftedes – (fried halloumi balls)
• Baked feta cheese in filo with tomato jam
• Spicy chicken with baby potatoes and kumquat sauce
• Lamb cutlets with grill vegetables
• Stuffed Beef fillet with hiromeri, and halloumi served with commandaria sauce
• Mpamies    
• Local Desserts                                                                                  

Mediterraneo Restaurant- Italian Food

This restaurant actually belongs to Annabelle hotel – the sister hotel of Almyra! We spent a beautiful night sampling incredible Italian food. Finally, we moved on to the rooftop bar for cocktails and live music! The mentality of Mediterraneo is to unite friends and family over sharing plates elevated by the finest local organic produce. You can visit the restaurant either for lunch or dinner. Personally, I find the grande setting and wine menu best suited for dinner!

BOOK THE HOTEL HERE

The menu is huge and includes so many choices of antipasti, pasta, meats, fish and desserts. Have a look at the menu here!

Paphos Holidays – Experiences to take outside of Almyra

Almyra Unearthed

The pastoral pleasures of the Paphos countryside are calling! Try your hand at picking and pressing olives into oil or harvesting grapes! Alternatively, you can collect plump figs, mangoes, and guavas. Lastly, there is a really fun pomegranate workshop and cookery lesson! Prices available at the hotel 

Almyra Culture & Cuisine

Want to feel the pulse of Cyprus’ rural heart? Let Almyra take you deep into traditional village life on this explorative full-day excursion. Here, you can sample fresh halloumi in Axylou and taste locally produced wines in Panagyia. Alternatively, you can watch lace being woven on a loom in Fyti; and dine on homemade yumminess in a garden in Kallepia. Prices available at the hotel.

Paphos Holidays – Art Workshop

Has the Mediterranean sun sparked your creative flame? Fan the fire of inspiration during a two-hour masterclass with Katerina Foukara and Arsenty Lysenkov. They are two of Cyprus’ most compelling and environmentally focused artists! First, choose your medium – sculpture, watercolors, or oils. Then, craft a project under their guidance while learning about the local art scene. Prices available at the hotel.

Almyra Adventure

Seeking a spot of adventure? You can explore abandoned villages. Venture into wooded gorges. Swim in crystalline waters. Trek to the spot where Aphrodite met Adonis. Taste locally made cheeses and wines. Tour a Byzantine Monastery – and more! Prices available at hotel 

Wine Tours

Uncover Cyprus’ hidden treasures alongside Almyra’s internationally awarded Sommelier. In this excursion, you can spend half a day visiting ‘Vineyards Near the Sea’ to discover indigenous white varieties like Xynisteri and Morokanella. Elevate your knowledge of ‘High Altitude Wines’ including the aromatic Maratheftiko, complete with lunch delicacies at Vouni Panayias winery’s on-site restaurant. Lastly, meet the passionate young bio winemakers breathing new life into Cyprus’ Morokanella, Maratheftiko and Lefkadha with a full-day ‘Boutique Wineries’ tour.

Paphos Holidays – Wine Tasting

Want to learn more about our exciting local wines chosen by an expert sommelier? At Almyra, you sample a white Xynisteri, a rosé Maratheftiko, a red Yiannoudi, and a sweet Commandaria, served with Cypriot cheese (of course!). 1-hour duration, minimum 2 people

Food and Wine

You’ve tried the wine…now it’s time to dine! Therefore, you’re invited to tease your taste buds further with a ‘match made in heaven’ meal in your choice of Almyra’s restaurants. Perfect Pairing meals can be booked independently or in conjunction with a wine-tasting experience.

Thank you all for reading through this Almyra Hotel review and for taking the first step towards the Paphos holidays of your dreams! Book the hotel here, sit back, and enjoy excellence in all aspects.

Love, Tia

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Related Cyprus Articles

Tia Does Agrotourism Series

• 1. Episode 1 Wine Villages in Paphos – Cyprus Agrotourism in Pano Panayia, Letymbou, Lemona and Amargeti (And Video)
• 2. Episode 2 Culture, Nature and Wine in Kathikas, Arodes and Akamas Peninsula in Paphos (And Video_)
• 3. Episode 3 Omodos, Arsos and Ayios Amvrosios – the most picturesque villages in Limassol (And Video)
• 4. Episode 4 Vouni, Lofou and Koilani Villages – exploring Limassol Province (and Video)
• 5. Episode 5 Kalopanayiotis, Kykkos, and Pedoulas – Nicosia’s hidden village gems! (and Video )
• 6. Episode 6 Agrotourism in Cyprus – Farmakas, Palaichori, and Askas – Wine, Safari, and Nature! (and Video )
• 7. Episode 7 Tochni, Choirokitia, and Kalavasos – Basket Weaving, history, and cycling activities! (and Video)
• 8. Episode 8 Lefkara, Kato Drys, and Vavla – Lefkara lace designs, wineries, brunch, and bees! (and Video)

Exploring Cyprus Content

• When to Visit Cyprus – A guide to choosing the season to visit Cyprus
• Where to stay in Cyprus – The Best hotels And Cottages In The Villages
• Cyprus Meze – The best Cyprus Taverns in the Villages and Mountains of the island!
• Cyprus Travel Blog – Everything you need to know to visit Cyprus. Start with this first if you are not local!
• A city by city guide to Cyprus. Decide which city in Cyprus suits you best!
• Incredible food in Cyprus to try. You will most likely drool at this article!
• Edem’s Yard – Best Brunch in Cyprus – Larnaca. The best brunch spot in Cyprus- hands down!
• Hamam Omeriye – Stunning Turkish baths in the heart of Nicosia– A Hamam Experience you are unlikely to forget!
• The best beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras. The best blue flag beaches on the island – say hello to paradise!
• Cyprus Passport Visa Free Countries – Travel to paradise without a visa!

Beautiful Seaside Hotels in Cyprus

• Hotel Napa Suites – Gorgeous, Central, with infinity pools
• Almyra Hotel Paphos – Luxury, elegance, and class.
• King Jason Hotel Protaras – Modern, central, fun, breathtaking!
• Napa Mermaid – The most incredible hotel in Ayia Napa– Looking for a proper hotel in Napa? Say no more!
• Apartment for rent in Protaras – Sofias Seaview review. A gorgeous apartment in the heart of Protaras square!
• Protaras Villas – The Incredible Villa Oniro. A huge and luxurious villa in Protaras!
• Limassol Hotels – A Beautiful stay at The Crowne Plaza Limassol. A modest hotel in Limassol that you will highly appreciate!
• Alasia Boutique Hotel- Luxury and elegance. Elegance and understated luxury in the quiet part of Limassol

The post Paphos Holidays – The Luxurious 5* Almyra Hotel appeared first on Tia Does Travel.

Life saving items you need in Cyprus

Portable ashtray/mini bin. With so many Blue flag beaches, Cyprus is a nature’s paradise that needs YOUR help to stay clean and pristine for generations to come. I ADORE this portable ashtray for many reasons. At the beach, Its cone shape means I can stick it in the sand all day long, and use for cigarette butts, chewing gum, and other small pieces of garbage I don’t want to litter the beach with. It is also always on the side pocket of my backpack, so I can use it when I hike, trek mountains and jungles, go camping and more! TIP: whilst driving, do NOT throw cigarette butts out the window. The intense heat can make ur butt responsible for igniting a wildfire in the Cyprus forests that can last for days!

 Activated charcoal – to save your stomach from a multitude of sins. Such as heavy eating and drinking (you will likely do both), upset stomach, mild food poisoning, IBS flare-ups, diarrhea, nausea and more

Allergy sun protection and aftersun. Everybody wants to tan beautifully. But the sun in Cyprus is incredibly low and intense, which can burn your skin in no time, and bring out all sorts of allergic sun reactions that can seriously ruin your holidays! This is the best sun allergy brand I have found – I have been using it for over 3 years now and no more sunburns and sunspots! The after-sun lotion doubles up as a tan intensifier too, winner! You cannot find the allergy range in Cyprus, so I buy mine off Amazon.

A non-Plastic bottle that keeps water cold! Whether you are sightseeing, sunbathing, or trekking the mountains, keeping hydrated is key! Make sure you drink plenty of water! The thing is though, water in Cyprus stays cold for approximately 5 minutes! Additionally, plastic bottles need to become a thing of the past. Period! So invest in a good reusable and leakproof water bottle, that keeps cold water cold for 24 glorious hours. Simple, smart, and ecofriendly. What’s not to love about that!

A light pashmina will be your best friend! You can use to to cover up to enter churches and chapels, at an evening or mountain stroll to fight a chill, as a sarong or hair wrap on the beach and more!

Cyprus Itinerary – Nisocia

As mentioned in my Cyprus travel Blog that is packed with all information on the country, Nicosia, or Lefkosia is the largest city and the capital of Cyprus. As of 2004, t is also a member of the European Union. It is also the only city on the island that is not surrounded by sea. Nicosia is the financial capital and an established international business center! What the city lacks in the seaside, it makes up for with rich diverse culture, beautiful architecture and one more unique fact. Nicosia is the last remaining divided capital city on earth. Visiting this historically divided city is a must in any Cyprus Itinerary!

Things to do in Nicosia

Museums

In Nicosia, you’ll find a plethora of museums and seasonal festivals. One of the most historic ones is The Leventis Municipal Museum, situated within the old city walls. The Museum houses an extensive collection of Cypriot works of art. Such as costumes, jewels, photographs and maps as well as archaeological artifacts, medieval pottery, engravings, and furniture. Museum and culture lovers can find more info about the city, museums, festivals, or visit the virtual tourism board website 

Indulge and Unwind in a Hamam

Nicosia holds a special secret tucked and hidden away in its walls… A beautiful Hamam. The Hamam Omeriye is incredible and provides a stellar Hamam experience well worthy of its title. Read my review here and indulge in a beautiful day of pampering and recharging in utter bliss.

Explore the Old Nicosia City

• Ledras Street: A diverse and eclectic mix of old and new…Ledras Street is as symbolic as it gets! This major shopping road links the Turkish occupied North Nicosia with the Cypriot occupied South Nicosia. The street was reopened as a crossing point between the two sides in 2008. You can visit the Green Line, and read up on its history (mentioned in more detail in my Cyprus Travel Blog article).
• Once there, stroll the streets, have a look at street art, and explore the side streets for hidden cafes and shisha bars. In the night, Ledras Street and its parallel Onasagorou street come alive. From late afternoon, delicious cocktails, and shisha cafes are plentiful and the streets get busier and busier into a steady buzzing area! Keep an eye out for announcements of events featuring the coolest DJ’s on the island.
• Faneromeni Square, In the historical Venetian walls of Nicosia, Faneromeni square is surrounded by a number of historical buildings and monuments. These include the Marble Mausoleum, Faneromeni Church and School, as well as the Faneromeni Library. Explore every nook and crony of the square, and visit the library! Then, have a moment’s peace in the church, and explore the little shops, street graffiti, and cafes.
• Laiki Geitonia. Its narrow cobbled streets are filled with everything! There are antique shops, traditional Cyprus architecture, churches, restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops. You will take great pictures there!

Best view of the city

• For a 360 view of the city, Head to ‘’Shacolas Observatory”, the highest building in the walled city. There, you’ll find touch screens showcasing the rich architecture of Nicosia and videos showcasing its complex history.
• Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 am to 8 pm

Restaurants In Nicosia

• Meat Mezedes: Zannetos Tavern – For incredible and traditional Cypriot Meat meze
• Fish Mezedes: Paragadi Tavern – The best fish meze in town
• Burgers: Burger Guy – a really chilled environment and the juiciest burger I’ve had in Cyprus! Located in Paliometoxo, a village 10 mins outside of Nicosia
• Fine Dining: Skinny Fox – Gourmet dining at its finest
• Desserts: Giagia Victoria – Incredible and traditional Greek and Cypriot sweets and pastries
• Brunch: Silver Pot (one of the originals brunch spots in town) D.O.T (great for its extensive menu alone that also caters to vegans and vegetarians) and Nom (great breakfast, brunch and lunch at this new spot in town)

Where to stay in Nicosia

The capital hasn’t got too many great hotels but it does have some beautiful Airbnbs! Here are my two faves: This 3 bedroom flat in central Nicosia and this beautiful Studio with its own private pool!

Cyprus Itinerary – Ayia Napa/ Protaras

Ahh…Cyprus at its best and a Cyprus Itinerary MUST! Nothing beats Ayia Napa and Protaras in the summer..nothing! And contrary to popular belief, there is more to do in Napa than party and get stupid drunk! Protaras is only a 15-minute drive away (6km) and boasts the same incredible beaches, but also, refined beach bars, clubs, and nightlife!

Best Beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras

In Ayia Napa and Protaras, you’ll experience the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus and a few hidden beaches too! Crystal Clear calm waters and long stretches of gold sand. Naturally, no tourist has ever been left unimpressed with this region! So click here for the full list of The best beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras!

Restaurants in Ayia Napa and Protaras

• Asian Cuisine – Hokkkaido
• Fine Dining Glasshouse, at the top of the 5* Adams Beach hotel resort.
• Fish and Seafood Meze: Kalamies
• Meat Tavern – Mousikos, in my opinion, is the best traditional tavern in the whole of Cyprus! This tavern is actually in Sotira village, a 12-minute drive outside of Ayia Napa but easily accessible by car and too delicious not to mention! Alternatively, in Ayia Napa, you must visit En Yevo and in Protaras, Tappis Tavern.
• House style Bar and Grill Food: Hungry Horse in Ayia Napa
• Steak: The Sage restaurant offers elegance, luxury, and superb cuisine, particularly steak!
• Italian and International cuisine: Just Italian, which can be found in Paralimni, Protaras.
• Canadian, Italian, Indian and French Cusine: Casa del Gusto

Where to stay in Ayia Napa and Protaras

Ayia Napa: The 4* Napa Mermaid Hotel is an absolute favorite of mine- I have visited over 7 times! It’s heavenly! Protaras: Families or a group of friends will LOVE the Incredible Villa Oniro – a villa of 4 huge en suite bedrooms, garden swimming pool, and jacuzzi. I spent a glorious week there and I was in heaven! Alternatively, Sophia’s Seaview is a beautiful, luxe and modern flat in the center of Protaras Avenue – you wouldn’t even need to rent a car!

Tia’s Tip: Have the most fun-packed day at Waterpark Ayia Napa! A full day out with endless fun, sun and games ( bonus points for getting the tan of your life!) All this and more, at the No1 Waterpark in Cyprus. This waterpark is my favorite! It is inspired by Greek mythology and boasts over 18 fun-packed rides suitable for all ages! On top of that, there are 6 restaurants too – to cater to all tastes and needs! Make sure you indulge on the mini donuts from the carts situated all over the park, I’m obsessed! The result is a brilliant day out, therefore I highly recommend!

Cyprus Itinerary – Limassol

Limassol nowadays is the city of luxury, elegance, and excess. A city that looks and feels more like Monaco, and not like Cyprus 🙂 The hotels, restaurants, and establishments here cater to the selective traveler and certainly don’t hold back on luxury and comfort! This is the cosmopolitan hub of Cyprus, effortlessly blending sophisticated modernization with its ancient past. There are certain parts of Limassol that still hold their traditional feel and values too so in all honestly, you get two for the price of one here! Therefore, if you have a taste for the fine things in life, include this city in your Cyprus Itinerary and visit Limassol! Below I am listing the highlights of Limassol!

Restaurants and Nightlife in Limassol

• Fine dining and seafood. If you enjoy excellent dining on a special occasion, look no further than Pouestra Restaurant. This restaurant is located right on the waves.
• The best all-rounder. Columbia Beach – Combines excellence at all levels! Food, drink, pool, beach and a gorgeous crowd! Some of Limasso’s finest pool parties take place here, but please note, it all comes with a price tag!
• Traditional Cypriot food and vibes. The castle area in the old part of Limassol is great for a night stroll and some lovely food. This part of town is one of the only traditional areas still left in town!
• Clubbing: Breeze Summer Club is the best club in the city! Following closely is the indoor Seven Seas (part of the Columbia again). Another great option for Greek music lovers is the Ola Ellinika Nightclub.
• Drinks and good times. Saripolou street! If you want a taste of local Limassol, cheaper drinks and a real chilled vibe with no dress code, this is the place for you! Located next to the Old Castle area mentioned above!
• Fish Meze – Koursaros in Pareklisia (this restaurant is inland and not by the sea) is my No.1 choice for fish in Limassol. Alternatively, go to Pixida in Limassol’s Marina.
• Meat Meze. My Top choice is Agios Epiktitos, which serves incredible Cypriot meze and has the best views of all over Limassol.

Beaches in Limassol

Honestly? The choice of beaches in Limassol is endless! A simple drive along the ”paraliakos” seaside road and you’ll see more beaches, restaurants and high-end hotels that you would have time to visit! A car will get you to some other hidden gem beaches too! It is worth noting that all the beaches in Limassol have slightly darker sand. As a result, don’t expect the golden sands you will find in Ayia Napa or Protaras. Below, I am listing just a few 🙂

• Columbia – as mentioned above
• Malindi Beach – great for the active traveler! Think beach volley, tennis, watersports and more!
• Ladies Mile – caters to families and sometimes an older crowd, and people seeking peace and quiet. To get to Ladies Mile, you’ll drive on a long road that is a bit rough, so please mind your cars!
• Kourio Beach – again, caters to the quiet seekers. Lot’s of lovely fish tavernas right on the beach too! Check out the
• Acrotiri – This beach is only accessible by 4×4. The trek there is worth it though! Akrotiri is totally deserted and utterly gorgeous!

Brunch in Limassol

• Columbia Beach. Ok, I’ve mentioned this place too much! It probably sounds like im being sponsored for this.. but sadly i am not haha!
• CookHouse in the center of town
• Balcony – Next to the zoo. (Please do NOT visit the zoo!) and close to Saripolou Street.

Sightseeing in Limassol

• Ancient Kourion
• Kolossi Castle
• St Nicholas of the cat’s Monastery
• Limassol Marina – Ok this is NOT an old monument. But it is worth to visit as it is the super snazzy new marina in Limassol! Filled with yachts, restaurants, cafes and more!
• Archaeological Museum
• Cyprus wine museum

This is just a handful of whar’s available to see in Limassol! Luckily, there is a new hop on-hop off bus service that you can take that will take you to all these and more!

Where to stay in Limassol

Alasia Boutique Hotel– Luxury and elegance is great for sophisticated elegance away from the noise.

Cyprus Itinerary – Larnaca

Beaches to visit in Larnaca

• Makenzie Beach is a whole vibe that has been awarded a Blue Flag! Makenzie is a 1 km long strip with fine sand, clear and shallow water and plenty of green! Along the strip, u will find many incredible beach bars and restaurants. These restaurants. Makenzie is modern, with lifeguards, facilities, and ample parking space!
• Kastella Beach. Kastella Beach is a tiny Blue Flag winner, with calm waters and fine grey sand. The beach is only a 15-minute walk from the town center and very near to the Psarolimano Fishing Shelter.
• Finikoudes Beach. A good option for the more mature traveler. There are no beach clubs, no loud parties and nothing to disturb you! Many restaurants, cafes, shops, and well-known food chains line up parallel to the beach. From the nearby marina, you can take a boat to promenade the area!
• Alaminos Beach. Alaminos beach lies along the Larnaca-Kiti stretch of coast. It’s a fantastic off the beaten path beach, that looks and feels like paradise!

Restaurants and Nightlife in Larnaca

• Best Bruch in Cyprus. Edem’s Yard. I am utterly obsessed with Edem’s! The food and prices are second to none! The only downside is, that the place is PACKED during the weekend and they don’t accept bookings. Read my review here, and you too shall fall in love with it! Edem’s Yard is located in Finikoudes.
• Incredible streak. Hobus Steakhouse, which is also located in Finikoudes, and my personal favorite steakhouse in Cyprus! The ambiance is sophisticated and the service is second to none. The food, of course, is incredible, just the ticket for any special occasion! p.s Make sure you dress up! Alternatively, you can visit Panos Steakhouse which is located in the same area!
• Best fish tavern. Psarolimano is an incredible fish restaurant that I have personally visited dozens of times. If you are unable to get a table though, try popping next door to Zefiros, which is another great option.
• Sushi and Cocktails. One of my absolute favorites is Lush Beach Bar, located on Makenzie Beach. This bar/restaurant is right on the beach, and decorated so beautifully! The sushi is fantastic, the cocktails are great, and I’m practically in love with the seafood risotto! It is open all day, so you can lunch in your bikini, or dress up for dinner and drinks!
• Traditional Cypriot Cuisine.

Where to stay in Larnaca

If you are visiting Larnaca (popular with foreign pensioners) I would advise you to stay close to Makenzie! This area has some lively beach bars, excellent food and parties. The 4-bedroom Makenzie Sunset Apartment is a great choice! If you want a slightly more mature vibe, then choose to stay close to the Finikoudes area

Cyprus Itinerary – Paphos

According to Greek Mythology, Paphos is the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite, the goddess of Love and one of the 12 Gods of Olympus. The town of Paphos hosts so many historical attractions that definitely deserve a visit! And of course, a place in any Cyprus Itinerary! As a result, if you are interested in Greek mythology, make sure you visit the sights in Paphos. Naturally, many of them are directly linked to the 12 Gods of Olympus.

Best Sightseeing in Paphos

‘’Petra Tou Romiou’’ is otherwise known as Aphrodites Rocks. The location is actually in between Limassol and Paphos, and you will find clear signs for it on the highway. Once there, you can enjoy the incredible view from up top, then climb down to the beautiful beach. You can swim there, but please be careful of the currents because they are rather strong!

House of Dionysus. Here, you can marvel in some of the finest mosaic pavements in the Mediterranean! The mosaics of House Dionysus were discovered accidentally by a farmer plowing his fields. The fascinating part is it’s all so excellently preserved like it was kept safely hidden all those years! Various famous mosaics have found a home at the House of Dionysus.

Tombs of the Kings. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was a burial ground during the Greek and Roman periods. These impressive underground tombs, dating back to the 4th century BC, are carved out of solid rock and are well worth the trip.

Day Trips to Akamas and Latsi

Have an adventure at Akamas! Akamas is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking natural beauties in Cyprus, with its jaw-dropping scenery and views. Akamas is an adventure waiting to be experienced and marveled at, and a must in any Cyprus itinerary! In Lara Bay, which is nearby, you might get lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the nesting Caretta caretta turtles!

Tia’s Tip: Akamas is best explored with a 4×4 vehicle, as the roads are pretty rough!

Take a boat trip to Blue Lagoon! I highly recommend you to take a boat trip to Blue Lagoon! Blue Lagoon is the most popular place of Akamas and for good reason too! Blue Lagoon, boasts crystal clear water, and memorable sunsets too! You can rent a boat from the harbor and choose a half-day or full-day tour depending on how you feel. I’ve done both! The host will lazily steer you to Blue Lagoon, where you will have the chance to swim, sunbathe and explore the area! Many boats offer a lunch service option on board too!

Lat tip: Make sure you wear plenty on sunscreen and a hat on the boat!

Visit Latsi and the Baths of Aphrodite. In Latsi, the fish taverns serve the best and freshest fish on the island! This area is very popular for camping and the sea is incredible, although I am advising CAUTION. The water is shallow, then one step in, its an abyss, so please be extra careful! After a glorious swim, and an excellent meal, you can explore the Baths of Aphrodite! These baths are a natural pond where the Goddess of Love was supposedly bathing herself!

Restaurants in Paphos

• All-rounder American grill house and in house entertainment. Head to Fat mamas for a lively, fun night out with home-cooked food in this lively family-owned restaurant. The menu consists of a little bit of everything!
• Best Pizza in Paphos. La Sardegna da Gino pizzeria should be on the top of your list! I have nothing but good things to say about Da Ginos, and trust me; I know pizza!
• Italian food. Porto Bello for its consistently brilliant dishes, atmosphere, and service.
• French and Seafood. Gabor Restaurant
• Meat Cypriot Meze. Make sure you arrive hungry and with plenty of time to spare at 7 St. Georges Tavern
• Great Burgers. At Muse restaurant, you will find an extensive menu catering to all tastes, including great burgers, pancakes, omelets, salads and more.
• Relaxed Lunch with a view. Oniro by the sea is a hidden gem in Paphos, with incredible sea views, and laid back atmosphere! In the menu, you’ll find sumptuous seafood dishes, fresh salads, and sandwiches with a real twist.
• Brunch. Omikron for the Croque madame and the coffee! Another brunch favorite of mine is the Muse Kitchen Bar for their incredible omelets and pancakes!

Where to stay in Paphos

I am OBSESSED with the new and incredible 5* Amavi Hotel in Kato Paphos. This is an adults and couples only luxurious hotel! Paphos is very popular with families with small children, so the Amavi is a breath of quiet, peaceful and fresh air.

Cyprus Itinerary – Villages and Mountains

Cyprus Itinerary – Troodos Mountains

Troodos is the largest mountain in Cyprus and can be easily accessed from any city. This is because the mountains are roughly located in the center of the island!

During the winter, you can ski at Mount Olympus, which hosts ski slopes at 1,952 meters. Alternatively, you should also trek the nature trails In Troodos National Forest Park. In total there are 10 well maintained and signposted trails within the Park making up a grand total of 57.6km. One of these trails has been designed to be accessible by wheelchairs too! On your trek, you will get a chance to see many gorgeous painted old Byzantine churches too! Many of these have actually been put on UNESCO’s World Heritage List!

Kalopanayiotis, Kakopetria and Askas Villages

Olive groves…open views and little cobbled streets. This is what you will find in quaint little villages like Kalopanayiotis and Kakopetria. Clear mountain air, beautiful traditional food, rivers, flora, and fauna. Naturally, no Cyprus itinerary could be without a visit! In Kalopanayiotis Village, don’t miss the chance to spoil yourself and book a stay at the beautiful hotel and luxury spa retreat Casale Kalopanayiotis – for its fantastic spa services. Blissful! 

Lefkara Village

Lefkara is a small village that packs a serious punch! Here, you can marvel at the famous ‘’Lefkaritika’’ lace designs. These are used for decoration, and tablecloths, etc. These designs form complicated geometric patterns and shapes. It is also worth knowing, that the village is on the UNESCO Heritage List! If you wish, you can buy the designs as well as other famous pottery by Cypriot artists.

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Tia Does Agrotourism Series

• 1. Episode 1 Wine Villages in Paphos – Cyprus Agrotourism in Pano Panayia, Letymbou, Lemona and Amargeti (And Video)
• 2. Episode 2 Culture, Nature and Wine in Kathikas, Arodes and Akamas Peninsula in Paphos (And Video_)
• 3. Episode 3 Omodos, Arsos and Ayios Amvrosios – the most picturesque villages in Limassol (And Video)
• 4. Episode 4 Vouni, Lofou and Koilani Villages – exploring Limassol Province (and Video)
• 5. Episode 5 Kalopanayiotis, Kykkos, and Pedoulas – Nicosia’s hidden village gems! (and Video )
• 6. Episode 6 Agrotourism in Cyprus – Farmakas, Palaichori, and Askas – Wine, Safari, and Nature! (and Video )
• 7. Episode 7 Tochni, Choirokitia, and Kalavasos – Basket Weaving, history, and cycling activities! (and Video)
• 8. Episode 8 Lefkara, Kato Drys, and Vavla – Lefkara lace designs, wineries, brunch, and bees! (and Video)

Exploring Cyprus Content

• When to Visit Cyprus – A guide to choosing the season to visit Cyprus
• Where to stay in Cyprus – The Best hotels And Cottages In The Villages
• Cyprus Meze – The best Cyprus Taverns in the Villages and Mountains of the island!
• Cyprus Travel Blog – Everything you need to know to visit Cyprus. Start with this first if you are not local!
• A city by city guide to Cyprus. Decide which city in Cyprus suits you best!
• Incredible food in Cyprus to try. You will most likely drool at this article!
• Edem’s Yard – Best Brunch in Cyprus – Larnaca. The best brunch spot in Cyprus- hands down!
• Hamam Omeriye – Stunning Turkish baths in the heart of Nicosia– A Hamam Experience you are unlikely to forget!
• The best beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras. The best blue flag beaches on the island – say hello to paradise!
• Cyprus Passport Visa Free Countries – Travel to paradise without a visa!

Beautiful Seaside Hotels in Cyprus

• Hotel Napa Suites – Gorgeous, Central, with infinity pools
• Almyra Hotel Paphos – Luxury, elegance, and class.
• King Jason Hotel Protaras – Modern, central, fun, breathtaking!
• Napa Mermaid – The most incredible hotel in Ayia Napa– Looking for a proper hotel in Napa? Say no more!
• Apartment for rent in Protaras – Sofias Seaview review. A gorgeous apartment in the heart of Protaras square!
• Protaras Villas – The Incredible Villa Oniro. A huge and luxurious villa in Protaras!
• Limassol Hotels – A Beautiful stay at The Crowne Plaza Limassol. A modest hotel in Limassol that you will highly appreciate!
• Alasia Boutique Hotel- Luxury and elegance. Elegance and understated luxury in the quiet part of Limassol

The post Cyprus Itinerary – A Full City by City Guide From A Local appeared first on Tia Does Travel.