Cyprus is the Eastern Mediterranean's most substantial island, a place of genuine historical depth, considerable geographical variety and a luxury hotel infrastructure that has expanded dramatically over the past decade. The island's ancient history encompasses the mythology of Aphrodite's birth (at Petra tou Romiou on the southwest coast, the sea rock from which the goddess of love was said to have emerged from the sea), the UNESCO World Heritage mosaics at Paphos, and Crusader castles of the most spectacular type at Kolossi and Kyrenia.
Limassol, the island's second city and its commercial centre, has transformed itself into one of the Eastern Mediterranean's most interesting hospitality destinations, the Four Seasons Limassol, Amara and the Parklane represent a hotel quality that rivals anything in the Greek islands. The Old Port and the Limassol Marina have created a contemporary waterfront of real ambition alongside the medieval castle.
Paphos: Ancient Cyprus
Paphos, at the island's western extremity, is the most historically concentrated area on the island, the UNESCO World Heritage Archaeological Park (Kato Paphos) contains mosaic floors of extraordinary quality from four Roman villas, their mythological scenes (Theseus and the Minotaur, Apollo and Daphne, Narcissus, the Four Seasons) among the finest in the Mediterranean world. The Tombs of the Kings nearby, carved into the rock during the 3rd century BC, provide an appropriately atmospheric complement.
The Annabelle Hotel and the Almyra, both on Paphos harbour, represent the finest accommodations in the Paphos area, the latter in particular, with its design by Jonathan Leitersdorf and its position overlooking the old fishing harbour and the medieval castle, has a character that sets it apart from the mass-market resort hotels that dominate much of the Paphos coastline.
The Troodos Mountains and Wine Country
Cyprus's Troodos Mountains rise to 1,952 metres at Mount Olympus, a cool, forested interior of painted Byzantine churches (ten are UNESCO World Heritage-listed, their interiors covered with frescoes from the 11th to 16th centuries) and traditional villages that produce the island's wine. The Commandaria wine region, producing the sweet dessert wine that claims to be the world's oldest named wine (first produced here around 800 BC), and the table wine estates of the Pitsilia and Limassol mountain districts have driven a quality revolution in Cypriot wine.
The mountain villages of Kakopetria, Omodos (famous for its wine and its weaving tradition) and Lefkara (for its distinctive lacework, known as lefkaritika, reportedly admired by Leonardo da Vinci during his visit to Cyprus in 1481) provide the most authentic encounter with traditional Cypriot culture.
Limassol: Cyprus's Cosmopolitan City
Limassol has reinvented itself over the past decade, the Old Town, with its castle, covered market and traditional coffee shops, has been revitalised alongside new marina and waterfront development that has attracted international investment and residents. The restaurant scene along the Old Town's pedestrian streets (particularly around Agiou Andreou Street) now includes several genuinely excellent establishments alongside the traditional Cypriot tavernas.
The Limassol Marina has created a yacht and superyacht infrastructure that makes the city a natural base for sailing the Eastern Mediterranean. The coastal path east of Limassol, through the resort strip to the ancient ruins of Amathus and beyond, can be cycled or walked with increasingly high-quality hotels and beach clubs at intervals along the route.
Beaches and the Coast
Cyprus's beaches vary considerably by location. The west coast around Paphos has rocky bays and a few sandy beaches; the south coast (Governors Beach, Lady's Mile Beach near Akrotiri) has more beach variety; the east coast around Protaras and Ayia Napa has the finest sandy beaches but the most tourist development. Fig Tree Bay at Protaras is consistently rated among the Mediterranean's best beaches. For those seeking less-developed coastline, the Akamas Peninsula in the northwest (accessible by 4WD) has wild beaches and coast of exceptional natural quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Cyprus?
April to June and September to November are ideal, warm enough for swimming, comfortable for sightseeing and exploring the mountains, and without the extreme heat of high summer. July and August are very hot (often exceeding 40 degrees C inland) but the coast remains popular. The island is one of Europe's warmest destinations year-round.
How do you get to Cyprus from the UK?
Direct flights operate from most major UK airports to Larnaca and Paphos with British Airways, easyJet, Jet2 and Ryanair. The flight takes approximately four and a half hours. Car hire is strongly recommended for exploring beyond the resort areas.
Is Cyprus good for a family holiday?
Cyprus is one of the most family-friendly Mediterranean destinations, the calm sea, sandy beaches, English widely spoken, British-standard driving (left-hand side), excellent hotel facilities and a range of activities make it straightforward and enjoyable for families with children of all ages.
What makes Cyprus different from other Greek islands?
Cyprus is a republic separate from Greece with a distinct history and cultural identity. Its ancient history is deeper and more varied (Greek, Phoenician, Assyrian, Egyptian, Persian, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Crusader, Venetian, Ottoman, British), its landscape includes mountains with skiing in winter, and its wine culture and cuisine have distinct characteristics not found in the Greek islands.
