Attractions
Akamas Peninsula
Nowhere is Cyprus as unspoilt and tranquil as in the westernmost tip of the Akamas peninsula. Akamas is now a nature reserve with plant species found only here and the secluded Lara Beach. Sea turtles lay their eggs here and the beach is closed from June to September. The colorful nature trails are popular with hikers and mountain bikers. They lead past pine, juniper, eucalyptus and strawberry trees. The best known is the Bath of Aphrodite, a natural stone pool with a grotto.
Red Villages of Larnaca
The region around Paralimni in eastern Cyprus is also called Kokkinochoria (translated: red villages). The earth’s reddish color comes from the iron content of the soil and is of volcanic origin. A visit to this region takes you back to the original and traditional Cyprus. The fertile area between Larnaka and Gkreko is known for its potato and vegetable cultivation. The numerous pinwheels and pottery are characteristic of this area. Turkish and Greek Cypriots live peacefully together in the village of Pylas, demonstrating that there should be no separation.
- Topschoolsintheusa: Guides to study in Cyprus, including geography, climate, economy, and tourism of the country.
Petra tou Romiou
Many legends surround the bay of Petra tou Romiou and the boulders on the edge of the bay in south-west Cyprus seem scattered. Aphrodite is said to have emerged from the sea here. Whatever the legends say, Petra tou Romiou is one of the most beautiful pebbly bays in Cyprus. In autumn, the waves hit the rocks so hard that a yellow-white foam is blown inland and the foam hangs on the trees like robes. There is something magical about this place, with its rock formations and turquoise waters.
Avaka’s Canyon
The rock walls rise up to 250m high and are illuminated by the falling sun, the Avakas Gorge is one of the highlights on the Akamas Peninsula. Avakas has a lot to offer: Interesting plays of light, rare plants and wild romance between towering and jagged limestone cliffs. A small river winds its way through the gorge, which is why waterproof shoes are a prerequisite for a hike. The narrowest part is two meters wide and wild oleander trees grow in the rock crevices. The trail is accessed via a dirt coastal road and a hike through the gorge takes just under an hour.
Kyrenia
The city of Kyrenia in the north is considered the most beautiful city in Cyprus with a charm all of its own. It has an idyllic harbor and numerous cafes and restaurants. The cityscape of Kyrenia is dominated by a fortress. Once a medieval castle, it is now the most visited attraction in northern Cyprus. Byzantine castle walls can be seen on the right side of the castle. An ancient shipwreck, one of the oldest of its kind, is on display at the Shipwreck Museum. It sank about 300 BC. BC off the coast of Kyrenia. Other sights include the Folklore Museum, the Archangel Michael Church, the Aga Cafer Pascha Mosque and the beautiful old town with its small shops.
Machairas Monastery
Machairas Monastery is located south of Nicosia on the edge of the Machairas Forest. The pine forest serves as a recreational area for the residents of Nicosia. At an altitude of 800 m, the monastery sits enthroned on the foothills of the Troodos Mountains. Built by Emperor Komnenos in the 12th century, the colorful paintings inside were only created in modern times. Today the monastery is inhabited and managed by 15 monks. An icon of the Virgin Mary is the goal of many pilgrims.
Culinary
Overview
Cypriot cuisine gets its inspiration from Greece and Turkey. In the south of the country you will find a purely Mediterranean cuisine, with fruits such as olives and lemons that can be picked directly from the trees. The aromatic herbs from the Troodos Mountains are often used in the preparation of chicken, pork, lamb and fish. In the north of Cyprus, cooking is more based on the cuisine of the Middle East and Central Asia. Herbs and spices, such as saffron or paprika, provide the typical color and intense flavor of meat dishes. Many dishes here are served with tomato and yoghurt sauces, and rice is often served as an accompaniment. Mezze, a selection of different dishes, gives you the best insight into the local cuisine. Fresh fruit is plentiful and those with a sweet tooth shouldn’t miss out on sweet desserts like baklava. Char-grilled meats and fresh seafood such as tsipoura (sea bream), lavraki (sea bass) and garides (prawns) are often on offer.
Regional specialities
Afelia (pork stew with red wine and coriander) Kelftiko (lamb stew with herbs) Imam Bayildi (eggplant stuffed with tomatoes and onions) Adana (lamb and red pepper skewer) Stifado (beef or rabbit stew with wine, vinegar, onions and spices) Kebabs (pieces of lamb or other meat grilled on a skewer over charcoal) Dolmas (grape leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice) Tava (stew with meat, herbs and onions)
Tip
The bills often include a service charge, and a small tip is expected.
Regional drinks
The excellent Cypriot wines, spirits and good beer are only sold in the southern part of the island. Greek coffee (strong and unfiltered), cappuccino and tea are available in most bars and restaurants. The highlight of the wine year is the annual Wine Festival (Sept.) in Lemesos, where you can taste the local wine and culinary specialties of the country.
Minimum age for consumption of alcoholic beverages
You can drink alcohol in Cyprus from the age of 17.
