Cyprus. A place to discover

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Smell the jasmine and the wild thyme.

Taste one of the oldest winesof the world.

Walk in pine scented forests, or ski on the snowy peaks in the morning.

Take a dip in the warm blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea in the afternoon.

Wonder at Greek temples, Byzantine churches and ancient artefacts thousands of years old.

Play a round of golf, go cycling, or hiking round the countryside, or take up a new sport.

Feel at one with nature, or dance the nightaway.

Look beyond sun and sea.

In Cyprus there is much to enjoy, see and do.

It’s a whole world condensed in a small area.

Experience it all!

UNSHINE AND MORES

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Sink your toes into warm sand, feel the sun onyour skin and look out on the sparkling blueMediterranean Sea. Nothing beats Cyprus for abeach holiday.

With a wealth of beaches to choose from, youare bound to find one that suits your taste. Thereare fine white sandy beaches with shallowturquoise waters, or deep water bays with rockyoutcrops perfect for snorkelling or diving.

Long stretches of coastline lend themselves tojogging, while secluded coves beckon when youwant to be alone. From the quiet backwaters ofthe western peninsula, to the lively resorts in theeast, the island has something for everyone.

Whether you want a five star luxury beachsidehotel with every amenity, a hotel apartment orvilla with pool for flexibility, or a quiet hideawayin a simple family run establishment, the islandcan accommodate you.

Savour fresh Mediterranean flavours atnumerous restaurants featuring both local andinternational cuisine and live the night away tothe latest sounds or join in a Greek sirtaki dance.

Alternatively, just lie back and enjoy Cyprus’magical evenings gazing at the stars throughclear skies and lulled by the gentle sounds of thenight crickets. In Cyprus the living is laidback;you set your own pace.

HIS IS THE LIFET

C o a s t s

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NSPIRATION NATURALLYIIf you’re a nature lover, Cyprus willinspire you. From rugged coasts tomountain peaks, sunny vineyards tocool pine forests, flat expanses of wheatfields to lush citrus orchards, thechanging landscape within shortdistances offers endless opportunitiesfor the artist or photographer in you.

Sunshine is practically guaranteed andnot just in the summer. As a year rounddestination, each season has its specialallure. Spring, like an impressionistpainting, will delight you with itsprofusion of colour. Autumn is pleasantwith its lack of crowds, while the mildwinter, when everything turns green, isideal for hiking and cycling, for taking inthe culture, or for long-stay visitors.

The island is a must-visit forbirdwatchers as there are severalendemic bird species and hundreds ofmigrating birds passing through. Rareplants, such as the Cyprus tulip andcyclamen, will fascinate botanists, whilegeologists can marvel at majestic rockformations derived from millions ofyears old oceanic crust. Cyprus is one ofthe few places in the Mediterraneanwhere sea turtles come ashore to breedon the island's sandy beaches and arestrictly protected, as is the elusivemouflon, a rare wild mountain sheeproaming the Troodos mountain sides.

N a t u r e

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TEP INTO THE PASTSExperience at first hand one of the oldestcivilisations of the world going back10,000 years.

Famous for its copper in antiquity, Cyprus(‘Kypros’ in Greek) has even given themetal its Latin name, cuprum.

Long coveted by foreign powers due toits strategic position at the crossroadbetween three continents, the island islike a large open-air museum where youcan see evidence of its chequered past,making it a mosaic of differentcivilisations and periods.

The cult of Aphrodite, the ancient Greekmythological goddess of love and beauty,flourished here. People came from milesaround to take part in the celebrations inher name. Nowadays a modern version ofthe rituals connected with the cult is the‘Anthestiria’, or spring flower festival.

The island was the first country theapostles Paul and Barnabas visited intheir mission to spread Christianity andthe first to come under Christianadministration. See the stone column inPafos where, legend has it, St Paul wasflogged in AD 45 before converting theRoman governor there.

Many fine examples of Byzantine artsurvived here. Hidden away in the pineforests, are Cyprus’ painted churches withtheir colourful frescoes on walls andapses, ten of which have been put on theUNESCO World Heritage List.

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C u l t u r e

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EEL THE HUMAN TOUCHFYou’ll be given the warmest ofwelcomes in Cyprus. As you travelround the island you will find that thespirit of hospitality is very strong.

Cypriots have a reputation for beingfriendly, so don’t be surprised if theyinvite you into their homes and go outof their way to treat you as one of thefamily. Stay in a restored village houseor inn, part of the island’s agrotourismproject, and experience rural living atfirst hand.

Most Cypriots speak English and youwill be instantly accepted and givena taste of the local culture and wayof life.

The people’s helpful nature means thatif your car ever breaks down you willnever be stuck at the roadside for morethan a few minutes before someonestops to help.

You’ll make many good friends inCyprus!

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P e o p l e

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EFKOSIA (Nicosia) and its environsLThe 1,000 year old capital

Situated in the middle of the island Lefkosia(Nicosia) is a busy modern commercial and businesscentre. The centre of the city is its old quartersurrounded by a Venetian sandstone fortress wallwith a moat and heart-shaped bastions. Wanderround narrow streets with their overhangingbalconies and the beautifully restored pedestrianprecinct with craft shops, cafés and tavernas.

Mosques and palm trees give an orientalatmosphere to the old city. Make sure you stop offat St John’s Cathedral with its frescoes and themarvellous museum of Byzantine icons. In theevening catch a concert in the moat or an exhibitionat the Famagusta Gate, one of the three originalentrances into the old city, which has now beenrestored and is used as a cultural centre.

The Cyprus Museum houses the best collection ofarchaeological artefacts on the island, including afirst century AD Roman statuette of Aphrodite ofSoli, while the Leventis Museum depicts the historyof the town.

Venture out of Nicosia through olive groves andorchards and drive up into the pine forest to theMonastery of Machairas. On the way visit Tamassos,an ancient copper producing city, and nearby AgiosIrakleidios Convent, which was built in honour ofCyprus’ first bishop saint. Further on picturesquevillages abound, such as those of Pera and Fikardouwith their cobbled streets and preserved stone andadobe houses, which will give you a glimpse ofrural life in Cyprus.

R e g i o n s

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R e g i o n s

EMESOS (Limassol)and its environsL

Bon viveur Crusader town

The island’s second largest city, Lemesos (Limassol)spreads out between two ancient city-kingdoms,Amathous to the east and Kourion to the west, two ofthe most spectacular archaeological sites in Cyprus. Itis the island’s main port, the centre of the wineindustry and a bustling holiday resort. A large numberof hotels and hotel apartments line a 15 km coastlineinterspersed with eucalyptus groves and linked by apromenade popular with walkers or joggers.

Wander round the narrow streets of the old townradiating out from the fishing harbour. The medievalcastle was the site of the royal wedding in the MiddleAges between Richard the Lionheart and Berengaria ofNavarre, and now houses the Cyprus MedievalMuseum. Browse through the array of goods andproduce in the atmospheric Market.

The town’s inhabitants are renowned for their love offun so not surprisingly the nightlife is varied, with allsorts of tavernas, discos and clubs. Enjoy a summerconcert under the stars in the Greco-Roman theatre ofKourion, or join in the Bacchian excesses at the WineFestival in September, or have fun at the Carnival withits fancy dress chariot parade and parties.

A short drive out into the surrounding countryside willtake you through vineyards and quaint wineproducing villages. The castle of Kolossi is where thesweet dessert wine “Commandaria”, the world’s oldestnamed wine, was produced by the Knights of St Johnof Jerusalem who had their headquarters here in theMiddle Ages.

Germasogeia dam and Akrotiri salt lake, at the edge ofwhich is the Monastery of St Nicholas of the Cats, areunique wetlands ideal for observing nature andwildlife and peaceful places to relax, go for a walk orindulge in some angling or birdwatching.

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R e g i o n s

ARNAKA and its environsLWhere East meets West

Both Christianity and Islam have reveredreligious sites in Larnaka.

Larnaka was the second home of St. Lazarus,who lived here after his resurrection and laterbecame its first Bishop. The impressive 10thcentury Church of St Lazarus in the centre ofthe town was built over the saint’s tomb andis one of the finest examples of Byzantinearchitecture in Cyprus.

The mosque of Hala Sultan Tekke, built inhonour of the Prophet Mohammed’s auntwho died here after falling from her horse, isan important place of Moslem pilgrimage. Itsminaret rises up amidst a copse of tall palmand cypress trees, shimmering like an oasismirage on the edge of the salt lake, afavourite winter habitat for flamingoes andother migratory birds.

The town is built over the ancient city-kingdom of Kition, a rich sea port and majorcentre of the copper trade and later aPhoenician stronghold. Its remains can beseen today in its cyclopean walls made ofgiant blocks of stone and a complex of 12thcentury BC Mycenaean Greek temples.

Stroll along the palm-lined sea-frontpromenade and indulge in some peoplewatching at one of the many cafés orrestaurants. The nearby marina is a friendlycommunity of local yacht owners and a hauntfor yachtsmen from all over the world.

On the outskirts of town, the AngeloktistiChurch in the village of Kiti has rare 6thcentury Byzantine mosaics. SolitaryStavrovouni, dramatically perched on thepeak of a mountain top, is one of the oldestmonasteries in Cyprus. The hills are dottedwith picturesque villages like Vavla orLefkara, famous for its local lace and itsfiligree silver-ware. Choirokoitia with itsreconstructed round huts and Tenta areimportant Neolithic settle ments, the formerbeing a world heritage site.

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R e g i o n s

AFOS and its environsPAphrodite’s realm

In antiquity Pafos was the centre of the cult ofAphrodite. Swim in the sea by the rocks known asPetra tou Romiou where the goddess was believed tohave risen from the waves, make a pilgrimage to hersanctuary at Kouklia, or visit the grotto near Poliswhere she was supposed to have bathed.

Pafos, with its pleasant harbour and medieval fort,combines a cosmopolitan holiday resort, spectacularcountryside and historical sites. It was the capital ofCyprus for 600 years in ancient times and itsarchaeological legacy is such that UNESCO put thewhole town on its World Cultural Heritage List. Theintricate floor mosaics in villas dating back to theRoman period depicting scenes from Greekmythology are considered among the finest in theEastern Mediterranean. Equally impressive are theunderground Tombs of the Kings carved out of solidrock and decorated with Doric pillars. The museumat Maa-Paleokastro near Coral Bay has an interestingcollection of artefacts from the period of MyceneanGreek colonisation of Cyprus.

Byzantine treasures abound, such as the remarkablefive-domed church of Agia Paraskevi in Geroskipou,or the ruins of two early Christian basilicas at AgiosGeorgios in Pegeia.

The Monastery of Agios Neofytos has wonderfullycolourful frescoes painted on the walls in a cave thatthe hermit carved out of the mountain.Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery is worth visiting for itsfine icons and a taste of the locally produced vintagewine from its own winery.

If peace and quiet in harmony with nature are whatyou are after, head for the Polis area. The Akamaspeninsula is an area of natural wilderness withdramatic coastlines and sandy coves. Here you canexplore the various picturesque villages, walk alongone of the many scenic nature trails or take a boattrip along the dramatic coastline that all form part ofAphrodite’s playground.

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KEY

TEMPERATURES

† Church, Monastery

Archaeological site

Town

Village

Main Road

Motorway

Limit of area under Turkish occupation

MONTHS

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

17,3 8,4 6,1 16,5 77 11,4

17,5 8,1 7,2 16,6 73 9,1

19,4 10,0 8,0 16,9 68 8,9

22,6 12,7 9,2 17,4 67 5,0

26,6 16,5 11,2 19,0 69 2,6

30,7 20,1 12,8 21,8 70 0,3

33,0 22,2 12,6 24,1 71 0,0

33,2 22,6 11,9 25,4 73 0,3

31,3 20,4 10,6 25,8 67 0,3

28,6 17,7 8,9 23,2 68 3,4

23,5 13,4 7,2 20,2 73 7,3

19,0 10,0 5,8 18,6 81 10,0

Max

imum

dai

ly c

oast

alte

mpe

ratu

re in

oC

Min

imum

nig

ht c

oast

alte

mpe

ratu

re in

oC

Mea

n da

ily S

unsh

ine

(Hou

rs)

Sea

tem

pera

ture

in o

C

Hum

idity

(%)

Rai

nday

s

CHRYSOCHOUBA

Y

Baths ofAphrodite

PanagiaChrysorrogiatissa

Maa

Gourri

Amathous

Kolossi

Kourion

EPISKOPI BAY

AKROTIRI BAY

MORFOU BAY

†

†

† †

HaAlexandria

Crete, Rhodes, Piraeus

Beirut

Cho

†

†

Aphrodite’s Sanctuary

PyrgosPomos

Polis

Cape Arnaoutis

Neon Chorion

Drouseia

KathikasLasa

Fyti

CedarValley

Gerakies

Pano Panagia

StroumpiPegeia AgiosNeofytos

Lempa

Agios Nikolaos

Mandria

KedaresArsos

Omodos

VasaVouni

Trooditissa

Platres

Laneia

Lofou

Koilani

Agros

KyperountaPedoulas

Kakopetria

Nikitari

PalaichoriMachairas

Klirou

Peristerona

Karavas

Livera

Cape Kormakitis

Geroskipou

TimiKouklia

Pissouri

Cape Aspron

Coral Bay

Pafos InternationalAirport

Petra tou Romiou(Aphrodite’s birthplace)

Alassa

Polemidia

Cape Zevgari

Astromeritis

Cape Gata

SaltLake

Harbour

ArgakaAkamas

Vavla

Pe

Ag

Fikardou

Stavrostis Psokas

Pelendri

Panagiatou Kykkou

Germasogeia

Sanctuary ofApollon Ylatis LEMESOS

(Limassol)

PAFOS Te

Lysos

AgiosIlarion

Myrtou

Lambous

AREA UNDE

Vouni

Soloi

LakkiPeristerona

Troodos

Moutoulas

Galata

Asinou

MORFOU

Karavostasi

EUROPE

AFRICA

ATLA

NTIC

OCEAN

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

ASIA

CYPRUS

Palaipafos

LEFKOSIA

80 LEMESOS

152 72 PAFOS

47 70 142 LARNAKA

80 51 123 121 TROODOS

81 107 184 41 163 AGIA NAPA

188 108 37 177 160 220 POLIS

85 111 178 44 158 5 219

LEMESOS

PAFOS

LARNAKA

TROODOS

AGIA NAPA

POLIS

PARALIMNI

DISTANCE CHART (Km)

0 20km

Cape Apostolos Andreas

KERYNEIA

Tamassos

Rizokarpaso

FA

MA

GU

ST

ABAY

LARNAKA BAY

BAY

Salt Lake

†

†

Haifalexandria

eusChoirokoitia

†AgiosMinas

MachairasKornos

Nisou

LatsiaDeftera

rou

Stavrovouni

Lymbia

Marina

Kiti

Mazotos

Kofinou

Liopetri

Xylofagou

Cape Pyla

Deryneia

Paralimni

Agia NapaProtaras

Cape Gkreko

Larnaka International Airport

Cape ElaiaAgios Amvrosios

Zygi

Kalymnos Beach(Governor’s Beach)

Cape Kiti

Harbour

Davlos

Sotira

Vavla

Pera

Agios Irakleidios

ardou

Kato LefkaraPano Lefkara Hala Sultan

Tekkesi

AMMOCHOSTOS(Famagusta)

LARNAKA

Tenta

BellapaisAgios

Ilarion

Agios Epiktitos

LEFKOSIA(Nicosia)

Lambousa

Voufaventon

Aigialousa

Lefkonoiko

A UNDER TURKISH OCCUPATION SINCE 1974

Trikomo

SalamisEgkomi†

ApostolosVarnavas

Kantara

†

Apostolos Andreas

Pentadaktylos

Karpasia

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R e g i o n s

MMOCHOSTOS (Famagusta) The South-East CoastA

Golden days, silvery nights

Once sleepy fishing villages, Agia Napa onthe south-east coast with its fabuloussandy beaches, and Protaras, the coastalarea of Paralimni, in the east with itshundreds of windmills, nowadays buzzwith life.

Spend the day sunning yourself on thebeach, swimming in the warm turquoisewaters or taking a short cruise along thecoast. Some of the best snorkeling anddiving can be had off Cape Gkreko, theeastern peninsula national forest park,with its secluded coves and rockyplatforms, impressive cliff top views andsea caves. In the evening dine at one of themany restaurants, especially one of thelocal ones in Paralimni, or jive to the latestsounds at one of numerous nightclubs.

Drive through the main potato-growingarea of the island, known collectively as theKokkinochoria (red soil villages) becauseof the rich red earth in which the crops aregrown. Stop off at the tiny estuary knownby the locals as Potamos and watch thefishing boats haul in their catch in theirmulticoloured baskets.

Culture lovers can explore the medievalchurches found in villages like Sotira or goround the folk art museums displaying ruralartefacts in Deryneia and Avgorou. Thechildren will love the new Sea Museum,“Thalassa”, in Agia Napa, which has anamazing replica of a 4th century tradingship which sunk off the coast of Kyrenia.

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R e g i o n s

HE TROODOS MOUNTAINS

Beneath the whispering pines

Take a trip into the mountains for arefreshing break from the heat of thecentral plains and the coast. Rising toalmost 2000 metres above sea level, theTroodos peaks provide panoramic viewsand a place to go skiing in winter.

Charming villages, some with cobbledstreets and preserved folk architecture,nestle on terraced slopes amid vineyardsand orchards of almond, hazelnut andcherry trees. Stop off at one of the cafés orrestaurants next to a burbling mountainstream and try one of the preserved fruitdesserts served as a typical islandwelcome, or dine on the locally producedrainbow trout, a speciality in the region.

Spend the day walking along one of themany nature trails, resting at a picnic sitealong the way, or visit the Visitor Centre inthe Troodos forest park area. The CedarValley is home to an unusually large numberof Cypriot cedars and so far from themadding crowds that the only sounds youwill hear when you switch off the engine ofyour car are those of nature. In the eveningnightingales songs will lull you to sleep.

The Troodos mountains are where thepainted churches of Cyprus, superbexamples of Byzantine art, can be found.The church of Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis inKakopetria, together with those of Asinouand of Panagia tou Araka in the village ofLagoudera, are considered to be some ofthe most outstanding on the island.Kykkos Monastery, the largest on theisland, has an excellent Byzantine museumand a golden icon of the Virgin Mary,allegedly painted by St. Luke.

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See the famous painted churches of Cyprus,ten Byzantine churches on UNESCO’s WorldHeritage List, with their remarkable pitchedwooden roofs, icons and frescoes. Scatteredthroughout the Troodos mountain areas ofMarathassa, Solea and Pitsilia, they are oftensituated in beautiful settings among thetrees and are bound to impress you.

YZANTINE ROUTE

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Peristerona

Astromeritis

Geroskipou

Kouklia

PAFOS

LEFKOSIA(Nicosia)

Panagia tou Araka(Lagoudera)

Panagia Podithou(Galata)

Agios Nikolaos(Kakopetria)

Panagia Asinou

Timios Stavros(Pelendri)

Nikitari

Sotiros(Palaichori)

Arch.Michael

(Pedoulas)

Agios NikolaosMandria

Kedares

Nikokleia

Platres

Laneia

Alassa

Agros

Marathasa

Solea

Pitsilia

Polis

Troodos

Agios Ioannis Lampadistis(Kalopanagiotis)

Panagia(Moutoullas)

KykkosStavros tis Psokas

Stavros tou Agiasmati(Platanistasa)

1

2

3

45

67

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9

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LEMESOS(Limassol)

UNESCO World Heritage List

PITSILIA1. Stavros tou Agiasmati2. Sotiros3. Timios Stavros4. Panagia tou Araka

SOLEA5. Agios Nikolaos6. Panagia Podithou7. Panagia Asinou

MARATHASA8. Agios Ioannis Lampadistis9. Panagia Moutoulla10. Arch. Michael

Road Network

T r a v e l P l a n n e r

BThe best way toexplore Cyprus isby car. An excellent roadnetwork links thecities makingdistances short andeasy, but rememberto drive on the lefthand side of theroad. Here are somethematic routes tohelp you discoverthe island.

INE ROUTESW Lemesos (Limassol)

Pafos

The sun-kissed southern slopes of the Troodos mountainsabove Lemesos (Limassol) and Pafos are renowned for theirvineyards and their delightful hillside villages and a perfectopportunity to meet and mix with the locals. Take a tour ofthe wineries and in some wine-tasting, or sample othergrape-based delicacies. Visit an old monastery or the CyprusWine Museum at Erimi. Occasionally you may come acrossan old stone bridge or a secluded Byzantine church. Thereare stylish hill resorts, villages famous for their pottery andeven a donkey sanctuary, Cyprus’ traditional beast ofburden, at Vouni.

is

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Kathikas

CedarValley

StroumpiPegeia

Pafos InternationalAirport

PAFOS

Polemi

TsadaMesogi

Letymvou

Statos

Chrysorrogiatissamonastery

Panagia

Kolossi

Mandria

ArsosOmodos

VasaVouni

Platres

LaneiaKoilani

Cape ZevgariCape Gata

SaltLake

Pelendri

LEMESOS(Limassol)

AgiosAmvrosios

Pera Pedi

Malia

Souni Zanakia

Monagri

Pachna

Trimiklini

Foini

Troodos

Koumandaria Region

Anogyra

Largest winecompaniesErimi

Road NetworkA6

A6

Road Network

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ATURE ROUTE (EUROPEAN PATH E4)N

NTIQUITY ROUTEA Imagine life in the Stone Age by visiting the ancient settlements of Tenta andChoirokoitia with its quaint reconstructed round huts. Wander through theremains of the ancient city-kingdom of Kition, once a rich sea port and majorcopper trading centre. Admire the spectacular views from the cliff tops ofAmathous and Kourion, the two ancient city-kingdoms that flank the moderntown of Lemesos (Limassol). Amathous was where the world’s largest stonevase was found, now displayed in the Louvre Museum. The splendid Greco-Roman theatre at Kourion is still used for cultural performances today. Visitthe world heritage sites of the sanctuary of Aphrodite at Kouklia, the Tombsof the Kings and the exquisite Pafos mosaics.

The E-paths are designated by the European RamblersAssociation and form a European network of 11 long-distancewalking routes running for many thousands of kilometresacross the whole of Europe. The Cyprus section of path E4starts or finishes at Larnaka airport, goes through CapeGkreko, up into the Troodos mountains and down to theAkamas region, ending or starting at Pafos airport. Along theway it takes ramblers through areas of exceptional beauty, andsignificant ecological, historical, cultural and scientific interest.

T r a v e l P l a n n e r

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Akamas

Steni

Baths ofAphrodite

Polis

Cape Arnaoutis

Drouseia Lysos

CedarValley

Agia Varvara

Coral Bay

Pafos InternationalAirport

PAFOS

Troodos

Lemythou

Treis Elies

Milikouri

Stavrostis Psokas

Kritou Tera

Agios Georgios

Koili

Tsada

Episkopi

Acheleia

Pegeia

Troodos

Goudi

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Amathous(Ancient city-kingdom)

Choirokoitia(Prehistoric site)

Petra tou Romiou(Aphrodite’s birthplace)

Sanctuary ofApollon Ylatis

LEMESOS(Limassol)

PAFOS

Tombs of the KingsTenta

(Prehistoric site)

Kourion(Ancient city-kingdom)

PafosMosaics

Palaipafos (Kouklia)Aphrodite’s Sanctuary(Ancient city-kingdom)

Kition(Mycenaean Greek and Phoenican site)

(Ancient city-kingdom)

LARNAKA

Sotira

SaltLake

Panagiatou Araka

Stavros touAgiasmati

Machairas

Kornos

Stavrovouni

Xylofagou

Agia Napa

CapeGkreko

Larnaka International AirportHala SultanTekkesi

AMMOCHOSTOS(Famagusta)

LARNAKA

Aradipou

Kelia Voroklini

PylaOrmideia

Troulloi

Avdellero

Kochi

Kalo ChorioKlavdia

Delikipos

Lythrodontas

Lazaniaos

Potamos

AgiosEpifanios

LEMESOS(Limassol)

Paralimni

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Follow in the footsteps of Aphrodite, thegoddess of love and beauty and protectressof Cyprus.

The route centres on the archaeologicalsites dedicated to the ancient cult ofAphrodite and includes Palaipafos (Kouklia),Amathous and Kition. These are linked toother sites and museums with artefactsrelated to the goddess.

Wander through layers of history, cultureand mythology as you learn all about herbirth, mythology, character, the ritualsconnected with her cult, as well as plantsand seashells associated with her.

PHRODITE ROUTE

W

AT r a v e l P l a n n e r

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Baths of Aphrodite

Amathous(Ancient city-kingdom)

Polis

CapeArnaoutis

Geroskipou

Palaipafos (Kouklia)Aphrodite’s Sanctuary(Ancient city-kingdom)

Cape Aspron

Coral Bay

Petra tou Romiou

Akamas

LARNAKA

LEMESOS(Limassol)

PAFOS

LEFKOSIA(Nicosia)

Tamassos(Ancient city-kingdom)

SaltLake

(Aphrodite’s Birthplace)

Lempa

Kition(Ancient city-kingdom)

Agia Napa

Cape Gkreko

Idalion(Ancient city-kingdom)

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ASTERN ROUTE

Take in the eastern corner of theisland starting from Agia Napa withits white sandy beaches or Protaraswith its windmills. Drive through theagricultural area of the Kokkinochoria(Red Soil villages), through the city ofLarnaka with its palm-lined seafront.Continue on through Meneou to Kiti,making sure you visit the beautifulByzantine church of Angeloktisti, aswell as the museum at Mazotos andthe camel park. Admire thepanoramic view from the peak atStavrovouni with its monastery andtour through the picturesque hillsidevillages, particularly Lefkara, knownfor its lace and silverware.

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WTour the unspoilt western partof Cyprus. The short route willtake you through the areaaround Polis with itstraditional architec ture, alonga long stretch of beach to thevillages of Pomos with itspretty fishing shelter, andPachyammos with an impor -tant pilgrimage church,returning through themountains via Stavros tisPsokas, where you can seethe mouflons, via Lysos andPeristerona with its Byzantinemuseum. The longer triptakes the scenic route back toPafos through the CedarValley, Kykkos Monastery,Platres and then downthrough the Diarizos valley.

ESTERN ROUTE

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Mandria

Diarizos Valley

Baths ofAphrodite

Polis

Cape Arnaoutis

Neon Chorion

Drouseia

Kathikas

CedarValley

Pegeia

Lempa

Agios Nikolaos Mandria

Kedares

Platres

Pedoulas

Cape Aspron

Coral Bay

Pafos InternationalAirport

ArgakaAkamas

Stavrostis Psokas Kykkos Monastery

PAFOS

Pachyammos

Agios GeorgiosGeroskipou

Pomos

Peristerona

Lysos

Lakki

Petra tou Romiou(Aphrodite’s birthplace)

Troodos

Nikokleia

ko

Cape Pyla

Salt Lake

Kiti

Mazotos

Kofinou

Liopetri

Xylofagou

Protaras

Cape Gkreko

Larnaka Int. Airport

Sotira

Hala SultanTekkesi

Ammochostos(Famagusta)

LARNAKA

Skarinou

Meneou

Aradippou Agia Napa

Lefkara

Deryneia

AvgorouFrenaros

Paralimni

Potamos

Stavrovouni

Ormideia

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PECTACULAR TREATSSThere’s a myriad of events that take place inCyprus throughout the year to tickle yourfancy. Enjoy cultural performances with bigstar names in the most romantic settingsfrom medieval castles to Greco-Romantheatres under starry Mediterranean skies.Book a ticket for the annual opera event inPafos, attend an ancient Greek dramafestival, enjoy a “Musical Sunday” on thebeach on a winter morning, or chase roundthe special stages of the Cyprus Car Rally.

Numerous traditional events are heldthroughout the year that you can also enjoy.Marvel at the sumptuous pageantry of GreekOrthodox Easter and become part of thecelebrations of the many festivities held onthe island, like Kataklysmos (the Festival ofthe Flood) in June, Epiphany by the sea inwinter, or the many colourful villagefestivals throughout the summer.

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E v e n t s

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UN AND GAMESFWhen you’ve had your fill of sun and sea, trysomething new.

Cyprus is perfect for indulging in yourfavourite outdoor activities or interests.Whether you just want to play for fun while onholiday, or are a professional athlete lookingfor winter training, there are facilities here forall kinds of sports.

European soccer teams have for years beencoming to the island in winter in order toprepare for the next season. Many Olympichopefuls come here to train, such as Greece’sOlympic gold windsurfing medallist, as wellas the British Olympic team. Catch a top classinternational sporting fixture while you’rehere, such as the annual Cyprus Car Rally, orthe Men’s Challenger tennis tournament.

Or play a round of golf at one of the island’spurpose-built resorts set in peacefulsur roundings with spectacular views.

Cycling and hiking are an enjoyable way bothto keep fit and to explore the island. Shortdistances mean that cyclists can hone theirskills on a variety of surfaces ranging fromflat country roads to mountain tracks alongpeaceful, unfrequented and scenic routes thathave been tested by many cycling champions.

Being an island, water sports feature stronglyamong the many activities available. Discoverthe magic of the underwater world bysnorkelling or diving in warm crystal clearseas. Windsurfing and sailing can be enjoyedall the year round, thanks to the steady windsand mild weather, while coastal cruising anddeep-water fishing are also popular. Youcould even use the island as a base for a shortcruise to other nearby countries.

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S p o r t s

IXING BUSINESS WITH PLEASUREM

C o n f e r e n c e s & I n c e n t i v e s

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As the easternmost country of the European Union and at the crossroadsof three continents, Cyprus is a perfect place for conferences,exhibitions, corporate events and incentive travel programmes. Manytop class hotels provide a range of purpose-built facilities catering for alltypes of meetings, from small seminars of just a few people to full-scaleconventions of over a thousand.

Give your staff an incentive to improve their performance by rewardingthem with a golfing holiday. Send them on a wine tour of mountainvillages, or on a walking tour into unspoiled countryside, or organise athematic dinner. Offer them a stay at a spa resort in one of the island’sluxury hotels where friendly and attentive staff will revitalise andenergise them pampering them to their hearts content. Or impress yourclients with a reception on board a yacht.

A large number of destination management companies will make sureeverything goes smoothly for your event, from providing transport, tosetting up audiovisual equipment, or hiring translators and interpreters.

Advanced and reliable telecommunications with fast internet servicesmean that you can still stay in close touch with home. And with theisland having a reputation for service and diversity and English beingwidely spoken, you are sure to be well taken care of.

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R o m a n c e , F o o d a n d C r a f t s

SLAND IDYLLI Have a right royal wedding in Cyprus, as Richard theLionheart, King of England, did when he marriedBerengaria of Navarre here in the Middle Ages, and drinka toast to your future with one of the oldest wines in theworld.

Romance is always in the air in the land of Aphrodite, thegoddess of love herself. Whether you’re tying the knot forthe first time, enjoying a second honeymoon, orcelebrating your jubilee, the island provides the perfectbackdrop with some of the most romantic locations.

Convenient marriage formalities and excellent facilitiesmake getting married here a piece of cake. And whetheryou prefer an intimate family gathering or a lavishbanquet at a luxury hotel, you will find that the islandoffers good value for money.

YPICALLY CYPRIOTT A host of products unique to the island will fascinate you.Get to the heart of Cypriot culture by exploring itsdelicious cuisine, an exotic blend of Greek and orientaldishes. Do as the locals do by dipping a slice of villagebread into a bowl of cracked green olives with corianderseeds. Try Cyprus’ famous ‘halloumi’ cheese withwatermelon, for an unusual combination of flavours. Orgo for everything by ordering ‘mezedes’, a lavish feast oflocal delicacies.

Wash it all down with one of the local beers or wines.You’ll love the taste of the sweet Commandaria wine,whose origins go back to the depths of time. If you’rebrave enough, have a shot of ‘zivania’ straight from thefridge. Made from highly-distilled grape juice, it is almostpure alcohol and packs a neat punch. Other grapeproducts include the rubbery ‘shoushoukko’ that you cansee hanging from roadside stalls in mountain villagesfrom where you can also buy jars of ‘glyko’, the preservedfruit sweets traditionally served to all guests.

Cyprus handicrafts will delight you. Check out the wide selection available at the HandicraftCentre in Lefkosia (Nicosia) and the many souvenir shops.You will find ceramic replicas of ancient pots found in themuseum, intricately carved wooden bridal chests withMediterranean motifs, colourful basketware, silver andcopperware, as well as Lefkara lace and embroidery.

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35

CTO OFFICES ABROAD

CYPRUSCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATIONLeoforos Lemesou 19, Lefkosia (Nicosia)P.O.Box 24535, CY 1390 Lefkosia (Nicosia) CyprusTel. (00357) 22 69 11 00, Fax: (00357) 22 33 16 44E-mail: cytour@visitcyprus.comWeb-site: www.visitcyprus.com

UNITED KINGDOMCYPRUS TOURIST OFFICE17, Hanover Street London W1S 1YPTel. 0207 569 8800, Fax: 0207 499 4935E-mail: informationcto@btconnect.com

IRELANDCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATION71 Lower Leeson Str., Dublin 2Tel. 00 353-1-6629269, Fax: 00 353-1-6629270E-mail: cyprusinfo@eircom.net

GERMANY - FRANKFURTFREMDENVERKEHRSZENTRALE ZYPERNZeil 127, 60313 FrankfurtTel. (069) 25 19 19, Fax: (069) 25 02 88E-mail: info@cto–fra.de

GERMANY - BERLINFREMDENVERKEHRSZENTRALE ZYPERNWallstr. 27, 10179 BerlinTel. 0 30-23 45-75 90, Fax: 0 30-23 45-75 92E-mail: cto_berlin@t—online.de

SWITZERLANDFREMDENVERKEHRSZENTRALE ZYPERNGottfried Keller – Strasse 7, CH-8001 ZürichTel. (+4144) 262 3303, Fax: (+4144) 251 2417Geneva: Tel: (+4122) 741 33 03E-mail: ctozurich@bluewin.ch

AUSTRIAZYPERN TOURISMUSParkring 20, A-1010 WienTel. (01) 513 18 70, Fax: (01) 513 18 72E-mail: office@zyperntourismus.at

FRANCEOFFICE DU TOURISME DE CHYPRE15, Rue de la Paix, 75002 ParisTel. (01) 42.61.42.49, Fax: (01) 42.61.65.13E-mail: cto.chypre.paris@wanadoo.fr

BELGIUMOFFICE DU TOURISME DE CHYPREDIENST VOOR TOERISME VAN CYPRUSAvenue de Cortenbergh 61, KortenberglaanB-1000 Bruxelles/BrusselTel. 02/735.06.21, Fax: 02/735.66.07E-mail: cyprus@skynet.be

THE NETHERLANDSCYPRUS VERKEERSBUREAUKeizersgracht 635, 1017 DS AmsterdamTel. (020) 624 4358, Fax: (020) 638 3369E-mail: cyprus.sun@planet.nl

SWEDENCYPERNS TURISTRÅDSveavägen 66, 111 43 StockholmTel. (08) 10 50 25, Fax: (08) 10 64 14E-mail: info@ctosweden.org

FINLANDCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATIONAleksanterinkatu 48B, 00100 HelsinkiTel. (0) 9-476 09 100, Fax: (0) 9-476 09 120E-mail: info@ctofinland.org

GREECE - ATHENESCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATIONVoukourestiou 38, Kolonaki, Athens 10673Tel. (210) 36 10 178, (210) 36 10 057Fax: (210) 36 44 798E-mail: cto–athens@ath.forthnet.gr

GREECE-THESSALONIKICYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATIONNikis Ave., 37, Thessaloniki 54013, P.O.Box 50046Tel. (2310) 242880, Fax: (2310) 286881E-mail: kotthes@the.forthnet.gr

ITALYENTE NAZIONALE PER IL TURISMO DI CIPROVia Santa Sofia 6, 20122 MilanoTel. 02 58 31 98 35, 02 58 30 33 28Fax: 02 58 30 33 75E-mail: info@turismocipro.it

UNITED STATESCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANIZATION13 East 40th Str. New York, NY 10016Tel. (00 1212) 683-5280, Fax: (00 1212) 683-5282E-mail: gocyprus@aol.com

ISRAELCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATIONTop Tower-14th floor, Dizengoff Centre50 Dizengoff Str., - Tel-Aviv 64332Tel. 00-972-3-52 57 442, Fax: 00-972-3-52 57 443E-mail: cto@netvision.net.il

RUSSIAN FEDERATION - MOSCOWCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATIONPovarskaya 9, Building 2, 121069, MoscowTel. 007 495 223 9684, Fax: 007 495 744 2955E-mail: moscowcto@yandex.ru

RUSSIAN FEDERATION - ST. PETERSBURGCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATION27, Furshtatskaya street, 191123 St. PetersburgTel: 007-812-332-58-08, Fax: 007-812-332-58-09E-mail: spbcto@yandex.ru

HUNGARYCIPRUSI IDEGENFORGALMI HIVATALH-1051 BudapestDorottya Str. 3. III floorTel. 00-36-1-266 6044, Fax: 00-36-1-266 6043E-mail: ciprusinfo@t-online.hu

POLANDCYPRYJSKA ORGANIZACJA TURYSTYCZNAPiekna 20, 00-549 WarszawaTel.+ 48 22-827 90 36, Fax: + 48 22-827 90 34E-mail: cto@cypr.pl

CZECH REPUBLICKYPERSKÁ ORGANIZACE CESTOVNÍHO RUCHUPod Hradbami 662/9, 160 00 Praha 6Tel. 00-420-222-253 097, Fax: 00-420-222-251 639E-mail: cto.prague@volny.cz

MIDDLE EAST AND ARABIAN GULFCYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATIONAl Ghurair Center, Office Tower, No 436BP.O.Box 94670Deira, Dubai, UAETel. (009714) 2277637, Fax: (009414) 2277638E-mail: tourism@cyprusme.com

I n f o r m a t i o n

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Visit the Tourist InformationOffices in any of the maintowns and resorts forpersonal assistance andguidance. Open every dayexcept Sundays.

TOURIST INFORMATIONOFFICES IN CYPRUSLefkosia (Nicosia)Tel: 22 67 42 64

Lemesos (Limassol)Tel: 25 36 27 56

GermasogeiaTel: 25 32 32 11

Lemesos HarbourTel: 25 57 18 68

LarnakaTel: 24 65 43 22

Larnaka AirportTel: 24 64 35 76

PafosTel: 26 93 28 41

Kato PafosTel: 26 93 05 21

Pafos International Airport Tel: 26 42 31 61

PolisTel: 26 32 24 68

Agia NapaTel: 23 72 17 96

Paralimni - ProtarasTel: 23 83 28 65

PlatresTel: 25 42 13 16

www.visitcyprus.comCyprus Online:

The official website of theCyprus Tourism Organisationprovides comprehensiveinformation on the majorattractions of Cyprus,complete with maps, anupdated calendar of events,a detailed hotel guide,downloadable photos, a travelplanner to help you organiseyour trip to Cyprus andsuggested itineraries. Youwill also find a list of touroperators covering Cyprus,information on conferencesand incentives and a wealthof other useful information.

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General Informationñ Cyprus is a member of the European Union

since 1st May 2004 with Euro being theofficial currency since 1st January 2008.

ñ Visas: No visas are required for entry intoCyprus by nationals of most Europeancountries. Nationals of other countriesshould contact the nearest Consulate of theRepublic of Cyprus, or if none, the nearestBritish Consulate.

ñ The importation, possession and use ofnarcotics and psychotropic substances arestrictly prohibited by law.

ñ Vaccination: None required.

ñ Tap water is drinkable.

ñ Banks in Cyprus open for the public from08:30 to 13:30. Automatic Exchange Machinesand ATM Machines operate on a 24-hourbasis. Certain banks in tourist areas openduring the afternoon.

ñ The voltage on the island is 230. Socketoutlets are of flat 3-pin type

ñ All international brands of medication areavailable in well stocked pharmacies all overCyprus.

ñ Telephones: Cyprus’ automatic telephonedialling system reaches over 200 countries.Telecards can be purchased from PostOffices, kiosks and souvenir shops.

ñ It is forbidden to remove antiquities from thebottom of the sea, or to take them out ofCyprus without a special export licence.

ñ Visitors should respect ecclesiastic traditionsand avoid wearing shorts and sleevelessgarments in churches and monasteries.

ñ Short cruises to the Greek islands, Egypt,Lebanon and Syria can be taken on one ofthe many comfortable cruise ships whichoffer full-board accommodation andentertainment at very reasonable prices.

ñ Tipping in restaurants, taxis etc is optionalbut always welcome.

ñ A reasonably priced delicious meal popularwith the locals is ‘souvlaki stin pitta’ – kebabin a special envelope-type bread.

Getting Around the Islandñ Driving is on the left hand side of the road.

ñ All resorts are connected by modern dual-carriageway motorways.

ñ Transurban service-taxis are shared daytimetaxis linking the main towns of Lefkosia(Nicosia), Lemesos (Limassol), Larnaka andPafos. A very reasonably priced option fortravelling around.

ñ Petrol stations in all coastal areas and majortowns are equipped with automatic pumps,accepting bank notes and international creditcards, operating on a 24-hour basis.

ñ A number of experienced tourist companiesorganise efficiently-run day trips, excursionsand tours, in modern air-conditionedcoaches with multilingual guides.

ñ Yacht charter is available, with or without crew.

PHOTOGRAPHS:1. Cyprus moufflon2. Trooditissa Monastery3. Kourion Early Christian Basilica4. Bayraktar Mosque5. Machairas Monastery6. Cyprus Archaeological Museum7. Kourion8. Carnival9. Kolossi - Medieval Castle10. Kamares Aqueduct11. Hala Sultan Tekesi Mosque12. Agios Lazaros Church13. Tombs of the Kings14 Akamas Peninsula15. Ag. Napa Harbour16. Agios Elias, Protaras17. Cape Gkreko18. Agios Georgios Church, Palechori19. Kalidonia Falls20. Stavros tou Agiasmati Church,

Platanistasa21. Panagia Podithou Church, Galata22. Choirokitia23. Sanctuary of Apollon Ylatis24. Akamas Peninsula25. Troodos mountain range26. Kourion - Theatre27. Petra tou Romiou - Aphrodite’s

Birthplace28. Kition - Ancient city-kingdom29. Agia Napa30. Akamas Peninsula31. Cyprus Car Rally32. Flower Festival33. Cyprus International Conference

Centre34-35 CTO Limassol Information Office

Photos: CYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATIONACTION GLOBAL COMMUNICATIONS

Production:CYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATION

Text: MARINA CHRISTOFIDES

Design: SUCCESS ADVERTISING

Printing: LITHOWEB LTD

SEPTEMBER 2008

ISBN 9963-44-047-9

CYPRUS TOURISM ORGANISATION

www.visitcyprus.com