Discover Cyprus

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discover cyprus AYIA NAPA BEACHES

FRIDAY JULY 22 2016

VENETIAN WALLS NICOSIA

VARIOUS ACTIVITIES

KOURION THEATRE LIMASSOL

TOMBS OF THE KINGS PAPHOS KING AVENUE MALL PAPHOS

SALT LAKE LARNACA

CALEDONIA WATERFALLS

Get out and about to find the many things the island has to offer you

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ven for the most discerning visitor Cyprus has a range of places and sites to see and enjoy, whether for families and groups on holiday or residents looking to discover something new.

There are popular and secluded beaches along the coast, mountain getaways to cool off in, and ancient monuments to visit, while there are clubs, bars and restaurants to enjoy.

And Cyprus has become a venue for

chart-topping bands and celebrity DJs playing to large crowds.

The retail scene has also vastly improved, with Paphos, Limassol and Nicosia now accommodating state-of-the-art shopping malls with all the best brands, eateries and cinemas.

Almost everywhere, you’ll find that Cyprus has really improved in terms of both cutting-edge accommodation and fine dining.

And Cyprus’ most compelling attractions only lie a day-trip away, whether its Limassol foothills for a wine tour, the capital Nicosia for culture, Ayia Napa beaches or a trip to Paphos zoo. For those among you who have a yacht, there is no better place dock than Limassol’s new marina.

Ancient Curium, outside Limassol, is a popular attraction, as are the mosaics at Paphos.

And the Troodos Mountains, rising to

nearly 2,000 metres north-west of Limassol, shelter a score of exquisite, frescoed lateByzantine churches.

For those with a sense of underwater adventure, there is scuba diving off Larnaca at one of the Mediterranean’s best wreck dives - the Zenobia.

With a maximum depth of 43 metres, not all of the Zenobia is for beginners; but there are shallower shipwrecks, plus reefs and caves, nearby.

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DISCOVER CYPRUS

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Summer lights of Limassol Where to go and what to do in the island’s second city

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imassol has much to offer, located between the two ancient cities Amathus and Kourion. It is not only brimming with rich historical and cultural sites, but it’s also buzzing with lively bars, clubs and restaurants and, of course, boasts a long stretch of beaches with the two ports, marina and the new promenade.

Beaches Limassol boasts 12 of Cyprus’s 49 blue flag beaches (an international eco label) and they all have something different to offer.

The centre’s municipality Akti Olympion Beach is, of course, popular for its central location. It also has a wheelchair access ramp and cafeterias, bars and restaurants all along the area.

There are no private beaches and even the hotels’ beaches Dassoudi Beach is are all open to the public. Dasloved for its shady soudi Beach is loved for its shady stretch of eucalyptus forest and stretch of eucalyptus proximity to many of the holitrees and its proximity its day apartments. to many of the holiday Residents of the area appreapartments ciate the short walk across the street to get there.

Further to the east of the city, Governor’s Beach beckons with its sandy beaches, green stretches and secluded areas among white cliffs.

Many do become quite crowded on the weekends when Cypriot families flock there for a Sunday meal.

Lady’s Mile Beach at Akrotiri Bay has always been a favourite; with its long sandy beach and shallow waters it is ideal for children. “The far end of Lady’s Mile is paradise,” says one sea lover, “peaceful, no loud music, calm sea, sandy flat beaches.”

Lesser-known beaches like Pissouri have pebble beaches, but offer much quieter, lessfrequented areas.

Eateries and beach bars are thriving all along the coast. Malindi’s Beach Bar near St. Rafael Resort, with its luxurious sun beds and much-praised service, is a longstanding favourite among them. The nearby parking area close to the water is popular for impromptu family barbeques.

Kourion Beach with its great waves is a

popular spot for families to enjoy some play time and a meal. The area also offers stunning views of nature.

“I love Kourion Beach when it’s quiet. You can swim and see only cliffs and the sea and it feels like you are alone with nature,” enthuses one visitor.

One Russian citizen residing in Limassol says: “My family and I love all the beaches in Cyprus and enjoy how different they all are. I personally like Kourion the best. To me, there the rough sea really looks like the sea”.

The castle area A list of all beaches with the facilities they offer can be found at remains popular for www.visitcyprus.com

those hungry for a meal outdoors on the spacious and cosmopolitan square of Limassol’s medieval castle

Nightlife Much of Limassol’s nightlife actually also moves to the beach during the summer and, while there are always trendy new additions, several return each year to please party and live-music fans.

Guaba Beach Bar has been around for 10 years and has recently been voted world’s number 13 of clubs.

With its capacity of 2,500, it features world class DJs, but has gone beyond music and also offers events like cocktail-mixing competitions,

zumba and yoga classes and early afternoon parties during the week.

Another popular spot among the summer bars is Breeze, which presents famous Greek singers such as Konstantinos Argyros and Giorgos Sambanis who will perform in August. It also runs ‘Bedroom, Day & Night Cafe’ featuring themed oriental and under the moonlight nights by the sea.

For those wanting to stay in town, Saripolou Square continues to perform its daily transformation from daytime eateries to bustling night bars.

One of the longstanding favourites which boasts continuous good reviews is Salut Bar and Grill.

They offer We Love Fridays DJ Nights, Lazy Weekend Brunches from 10am-3pm on Saturdays and Sunday after beach parties. “In our kitchen, there is no substitute for flavour, freshness or quality,” they promise their guests.

They specialise in Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine, offer a wide selection of cocktails, an assortment of beers, and carefully-selected wine list.

The castle area remains popular for those hungry for a meal outdoors on the spacious and cosmopolitan square of Limassol’s medieval castle.

Several bars nearby regularly offer live music. Library Bar being a top choice among jazz music lovers has moved across the street from its usual location for the summer to Library Gin Garden, taking a musical break, but offering a selection of 35 brands of Gin and gin cocktails also serving food.

An insider tip in Limassol’s old town has been Sousami Bar and Nightclub. It attracts more of an ‘alternative’ crowd regularly filling its artsy back garden with multi-cultural crowds enjoying live bands and local and international DJs playing an eclectic mix of funk, house, soul, ethnic music... This summer Cosmic Sundays feature live bands on Sundays at 7pm “with a slice of juicy watermelon and a tendency to enjoy life” as their event page promises.

With the summer having just taken off, Limassolians appearing all set to enjoy it to the fullest and social media venue pages brimming with events, it promises to be a hot summer indeed.

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FRIDAY JULY 22 2016

DISCOVER CYPRUS

Traditional getaway Paphos has a lot to offer heritage and fun seekers alike

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ong gone are the days when Paphos was only known for its beaches and antiquities.

Next year’s European Culture Capital title the town has been building up to has meant an explosion in arty things to do, from pop-up cinemas to outdoor story-telling alongside a diverse range of live music events.

Paphos is still known for its beaches and antiquities - and rightly so.

The region has scores of beaches with The region has the Blue Flag cleanliness stamp of approval and its ancient UNESCO sites are scores of clean a vibrant reminder of a rich past. beaches and its Read on for some top pointers on how ancient UNESCO to enjoy the rest of the holiday season in Paphos. sites are a vibrant

reminder of a rich past

CULTURE Pafos Aphrodite Opera The 19th annual Pafos Aphrodite Opera Festival takes to the stage on September 2, 3 and 4 with a performance of Don Giovanni, presented by the Parma Opera Organisation. Enjoy an evening of music under the star-lit sky.

Location: Paphos Harbour.

Phone: 26 822 218 Website: www.pafc.com.cy.

Entrance: €25/€40/€50/€70.

CINEMA SEE FEST 2016: Film Screenings on the Beach Pafos2017 brings back its programme of outdoor summer cinema in its SeeFest programme.

Five screenings take place in August on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8.30pm. The titles in this year’s event are, Go for sugar (Alles auf Zucker) To Rome with Love, Plato’s Academy, Come Back (Volver), Paris, I love you (Paris, je t’ aime).

Each film has Greek and English surtitles except for ‘Paris, I love you’ which only has Greek surtitles.

Location: SODAP Municipal Beach Phone: 26 932 017 Website: www.pafos2017.eu Free entrance Open-Air Cinema at Technopolis 20 For the second year running, Technopolis 20 is running its summer cinema evenings at its outdoor garden venue. The aim of these screenings is to promote Cypriot directors’ work to cinema lovers.

Screenings stake place every Tuesday at 8.30pm during August and September.

On August 2 there will be no screenings because the venue will be closed. Location: Technopolis 20 (garden), 18 Nikolaou Nikolaidi Avenue, Paphos Phone: 70 002 420 Website: www.technopolis20.com Entrance: €3 Archaeological Sites and Museums Put a morning aside to see remnants of the Roman era in Paphos at the extraordinary mosaics in the harbour. Discovered accidentally by a farmer decades ago; detailed images on the theme of wine and merriment make up the designs, which were part of a private home complex.

Location; Paphos Harbour entrance Open daily until September 15, 8.30am – 7.30pm.

Phone: 26 306 217 Entrance: €4.50 Royal Manor of Kouklia The Royal Manor of Kouklia was the feudal centre of the area in the 13th century. Today. it houses the Kouklia archaeological museum with finds that include a

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large meteorite used in the worship of Aphrodite.

It is located on the site of Aphrodite’s Ancient Temple, which has stunning views over the Mediterranean.

Location: Kouklia Village Open daily: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 8am -4pm Wednesday: 8am – 5pm.

Phone: 26 432 155 Entrance: €4.50 (The price includes entry to the museum and the temple site).

Paphos Castle Originally a Byzantine fort built to protect the harbour, Paphos Castle was rebuilt by the Lusignans in the 13th century, dismantled by the Venetians in 1570 during the Ottoman invasion and rebuilt by the Ottomans after they captured the island in the 16th century.

Location: Paphos Harbour Open daily until September 15, 8.30am – 7.30pm.

Phone: 26 306 217 Entrance: €2.50 The Byzantine Museum of Paphos It houses an exhibition of religious artefacts from the 7th-18th centuries with an emphasis on icons. Among them is one of the oldest icons found in Cyprus that of Ayia Marina. The collection also includes wood carvings, embroideries, manuscripts and old printed books Location: 7 Andreas Iouannou Street Open: Monday-Friday: 9am – 4pm and Saturday 9am to 1pm.

Phone: 26 231 392 Entrance: €2.50. For more on the many sites and museums to visit in Paphos District, go to: www.visitpafos.org.cy and click on the Coasts and Archaelogical Sites and Beaches tabs on the left-hand side of the page.

Traditional Traditionally, life slows down in August, which is when villages hold their summer celebrations.

Paphos villages celebrate carob, sweet and grape products. For a glimpse into local life, check what’s on at the tourist office (8 Agora Street, near the market, www.visitpafos.org.cy). Learn about the history of Paphos by taking a fascinating walking tour around the old town. Stops include the Byzantine Museum, the Ottoman Baths and the municipal market. Booking is essential.

Location: Starts at Cyprus Tourism Organisation office on 8 Agora Street near the old market.

Every Thursday at 10am. Last 2.5 horus.

Phone: 26 932841 Free entrance The Place This unique venue is a one-stop shop for all things traditional. You’ll find local goods and products here alongside wines and spirits.

There’s also the chance to see Cypriot craftspeople at work and enjoy a drink in the wine and beer garden.

Families welcome.

Location: 56 Kanari Street, Ktima Open: daily Phone: 26 101 955 Website: www.theplacecyprus.com

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The Cultural Decentralisation Programme Summer Night Tales, narrated by Paramythokores Storytellers: Antonia Velliou, Vasileia Vaxevani and Ifigenia Kakridoni. The narrators from Greece, who became fascinated by the truth and the power of stories share them with those they encounter. September 3 at 7pm.

Karagiozis Grammatikos (shadow theatre)

by Theodoris Kostidakis, a recognised puppeteer takes us on a journey with his childhood memories. The Pasha is looking to find a secretary for Sarai. Chatziavatis searches and bumps into Karagiozis who cunningly gets the job although he does not know how to read or write. September 4 at 7pm.

Phone: 22 809 800, Website: bit.ly/29FjRT5

Beaches Paphos boasts 11 Blue Flag beaches across the entire district, which means that they have been approved for cleanliness and high water quality

by Europe.

Each has its own characteristics and features, be it a local café, beach bar, sun bed hire or a secluded location. To find out more about what each beach has to offer and where the closest one is located, go to: www.visitpafos.org.cy and click on the Coasts and Beaches tab on the left-hand side of the page.

Paphos Zoo A day at Paphos Zoo is fun for all ages. As well as a huge collection of exotic birds, there are white tigers, giraffes, wandering peacocks and two Siberian Tigers called Bonnie and Clyde.

Location: Near Peyia on St. George Road Open: Daily form 9am to 7pm.

Phone: 26 813 852 Website: www.pafosbirdpark.com Entrance: Call zoo.

OUTDOORS Paphos Beer Festival Plenty of beers will be on offer for tasting at the annual Beer Festival.

Location: Paphos Medieval Castle Open: Saturday August 4 – 6.

Phone: 26 250 311 Entrance: €6 (including one glass of beer) Polis Beer Festival If you miss the Paphos beer festival, head to Polis the following weekend for beer heaven.

Location: Latchi Harbour Open: Friday August 12 – 13.

Phone: 26 250 311 Entrance: €6 (including one glass of beer)

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FRIDAY JULY 22 2016

DISCOVER CYPRUS Out on the town

As day gives way to evening in Larnaca, it’s easy to make the transition from beachlife to nightlife as the main areas for dining, drinking and dancing are conveniently located along the different coastal strips.

Dhekelia Road A long stretch of coast that features establishments on the beach side and the opposite side of the main road. The majority of venues are traditional and down-to-earth restaurants and pubs – without the airs and graces of other areas.

The cuisine is varied, and many places feature entertainment such as karaoke or tribute acts.

Popular with: Expats from the surrounding villages, and tourists of the strip’s many hotels and holiday apartments. The area is currently enjoying resurgence, thanks to new, branded cafes setting up shop along the strip.

Vibe: Casual, welcoming and without judgement!

Larnaca by the sea Discover the town’s best beach life

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arnaca’s lovely, long stretch of coastline is dotted with 23 organised beaches that are popular for their safe, shallow and clean waters, as well as their different characters and vibes. From trendsetting to family-oriented, and bustling to idyllic, there is a beach experience for every mood!

Larnaca town The beaches of Larnaca town can be split into two main areas – Phinikoudes and Mackenzie – with smaller coastal sections bridging the two.

The Blue Flag, palm tree lined promenade of Phinikoudes is the The Blue Flag Mackenzie town’s main focal point and has everything. Aside from its clean, strip is widely considered safe and stone-free beach with fato be the reigning trendy cilities, the strip is lined with cabeach of the island fes, restaurants and pubs, and runs parallel to the town centre with its myriad shops. For sports fans, the sands feature a permanent court, which is used for major volleyball and beach tennis tournaments, and there are also water sports facilities and a petanque court. A wide range of different boat trips - including access to the Zenobia wreck dive – operate from the marina. Culturally, the Seafront Stage and two squares are used for events, and the Medieval Fort at the end is a defining attraction.

Passing the fort, the new Piale Pasha walk-

way links Phinikoudes with Mckenzie. Along the way, two organised coasts can be found; Castella and Flamingo Beach. Located by the small fishing harbour, the award-winning, Blue Flag Castella offers a tropical twist of coconut leaf umbrellas and eco sun loungers, whilst Flamingo is a smaller beach with sports courts and nets on its sands.

The ensuing Blue Flag Mackenzie strip is widely considered to be the reigning trendy beach of the island thanks to the Miami-inspired venues that line it, which then transform into nightclubs in the evening.

Like Phinikoudes, the waters here are also shallow, clean and stone-free, with various water sporting options available, plus two children’s playgrounds.

Larnaca region The organised beaches of the wider Larnaca region can also be separated into two categories; those located along Dhekelia Road – which falls under Oroklini or Pyla villages – and those in the remaining surrounding villages of Kiti, Pervolia, Meneou, Mazotos, Alaminos and Ayios Theodoros.

Along Dhekelia Road, the majority of organised coasts are located in front of specific hotels and establishments, which also lends them their respective names. Alongside these are three additional beaches: Yannades (Oroklini), and Dasaki Pylas Beach and CTO Beach (Pyla).

Yannades is the region’s only ‘green beach’, which means that it employs sustainable practices, whilst the CTO-operated beach features a complete range of facilities, including a children’s playground and courts for beach tennis, handball and volleyball.

The beaches of the remaining villages are a drive out of Larnaca, but worth it to find a more tranquil or niche experience.

In particular, Pervolia’s Blue Flag Faros beach - with its landmark lighthouse and Kiti’s Softades Beach are the emerging coasts of the region, thanks to upgrades at the former, and the favourable conditions for kitesurfing at the latter.

Phinikoudes The main promenade that features beach on one side of the road, and a wide selection of different eateries, pubs, cafes and clubs on the other.

Popular, international fast food franchises and coffee houses mingle with independent establishments offering a range of food from sushi and souvlakia to burgers and brunch.

Theme pubs, clubs and live music venues can be found in the side streets, including the edgier ‘town quarter’, and the old town, where a new crop of bars are appearing in traditional and listed buildings.

Popular with: Families and pre-teens along the main strip, thanks to the cheap and easy fast food franchises, cafes, fun-fair and arcades. Off the promenade and into the back streets, the crowd changes to rockers and hipsters, or sophisticated young professionals, depending on the area.

Vibe: Friendly and unintimidating atmosphere.

Mackenzie Larnaca’s trendiest beach and night strip that attracts clubbers from all over the island.

The majority of venues here are designed out in a minimalist style that features natural wood decking, comfy couches and an abundance of white!

The music is loud and the establishments compete to bring the hottest DJs to play pumping, live sets. A couple of more traditional or low-key restaurants and coffee houses are also present along the strip, but they are not the main draw.

Popular with: Older teens, young adults and trendsetters. The dress code is beauty and sex appeal; toned, oiled bodies and immaculate make-up, along with the stamina to party and flirt long and hard.

Vibe: Trendy, sexy and see-and-be-seen.

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Ayia Napa 2016 A hardcore summer of partying and good times

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artying in Ayia Napa (‘Napa’) is one of the defining elements of summer in Cyprus, attracting droves of revellers to the small town to let loose at the many venues where anything goes. If you are heading to Napa this summer, The Cyprus Weekly has the lowdown on the hottest weekly events this season.

Best beach party Held every Friday night, the ‘Kandi Beach When it comes to Party’ has become legendclubbing with messy ary for its big name DJs substances, Club Ice and its duration (starts at 6pm with the option to holds the reigning party onwards until 7am crown in Napa the next day!). Guests meet at the square where the event begins with drinking games and prizes – and a free T-shirt for everyone - before being bussed to Macronissos Beach.

During 3.5 hours of partying, there is an open bar with no restrictions and music from guest DJs on rotation, including A.M Sniper, Tim Westwood and Ms Dynamite, amongst others. At the end of the party, attendees are bussed back to the square where they are given special deals for drinks at a number of venues, plus free VIP entry to Club Ice, followed by an after party until 7am.

Information: www.kandibeachparty.com / Facebook: Kandi Beach Party Best messy parties When it comes to clubbing with messy substances, Club Ice holds the reigning crown in Napa for its UV paint and foam parties.

Tuesdays is UV paint night where

‘the biggest paint party in the Mediterranean’ takes place from 1-5am. As live DJs play a thumping soundtrack of EDM, house and Hip Hop, clubbers are sprayed with UV paint that glows under the lights, making for a psychedelic experience.

‘Europe’s number 1 official foam party’ is now in its 16th year and takes place every Thursday. Three suspended foam machines holding three tonnes of foam are released on clubbers, accompanied by lighting effects and a soundtrack of live guest DJs. The party includes an

open bar and free T-shirt, and ends at 4.45am, with no high heels allowed for safety reasons.

Information: www.napasound. com / Facebook: Club Ice - Ayia Napa Best pool party If you want something a little more VIP, then the Saturday afternoon/evening ‘Champagne Spray Pool Party’ at Napa Rocks Hotel is a clubbing event that features partygoers popping and spraying bottles of champagne around one of Napa’s largest pools to the beat

of a live DJ, complete with poolside entertainment.

The event starts at 4pm with a free bottle of champagne included in the ticket price, and continues until 9pm. VIP booths, beds and tables are available, as well as a food menu, competitions, games and giveaways. The entertainment includes dancers, acrobats, flyboarding and ‘special surprises’.

Information: www.napaspray. com / Facebook: Ayia Napa Champagne Pool Spray Party

The white sands of south Famagusta Cream of the crop for beach life and crystal waters, and very picturesque.

The south Famagusta region is home to some of the island’s most stunning beaches, with an impressive 23 Blue Flags awarded for 2016. The Cyprus Weekly recommends five of the most picturesque coasts in Ayia Napa and Paralimni for a summer to savour.

Ayia Napa Limnara (Kermia) Beach Where: 2km from Ayia Napa centre.

Defining features: A 350-metre-long coastal stretch of fine golden sands, calm, crystal seawaters and rock pools at the edge of the bay. Its location by Cape Greco’s stunning sea caves offers easy access to the National Forest Park for hiking, diving and panoramic views of natural beauty.

Konnos Bay Where: 4km east from Ayia Napa centre on the road between Cape Greco and Protaras.

Paralimni Kapparis Beach Where: Located north of Protaras in the Kapparis area, accessible at the end of a 1km track.

Defining features: A small, pretty and relatively secluded beach with fine sands and shallow, crystal waters. Less chaotic than the main beaches in Protaras, which makes it popular with locals.

Defining features: Easily one of the most idyllic beaches on the island. A small, 200-metre-long cove with fine sands, crystal waters (sheltered from heavy winds), and lots of greenery - as well as access to the National Forest Park. The views from the top of the cliff are stunning and worth the climb.

Ammos tou Kambouri Beach Where: 2km east from Ayia Napa centre, between the sea caves and Limnara Beach.

Defining features: A small, 100-metrelong beach that is welcomingly quieter than other beaches in the area, and relatively isolated. It is mostly rocky with a sandy centre

Ayia Triada Beach Where: Located between Kapparis and Protaras.

Defining features: A beach within one of the several sandy coves along the coastline of the area. The tranquil surroundings include a picturesque fishing harbour and a quaint chapel that is dedicated to the saint Ayia Triada, overlooking the bay.

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DISCOVER CYPRUS

The capital city has a lot to offer visitors who are looking for something more than just sun, sea and sand

Reasons to visit Nicosia The capital city has much to offer the cultured visitor

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here are some very good reasons to visit Nicosia and see why the city makes a perfect short-break destination. And despite the hot weather, you can still view the sights and enjoy al fresco dining in the city’s beau-

tiful yards.

Rich history: From the exquisite architecture of the medieval to the futuristic buildings of today and from archaeological sites of the Neolithic era to state-of- the-art gallerNicosia is the perfect ies, Nicosia is a marvelous destination for culture and history lovers. vantage point to visit all Museums for everyone: No those beautiful places in matter how much into culture one the countryside, such as is, Nicosia has something for everyone’s taste. With more than 15 the UNESCO-protected museums to choose from, Nicovillage of Fikardou sia has something for everyone’s taste: history and archeology, motorcycles, stamps, modern and folk art, religion and many more. The best part though is that all are in very close distance to each other, so you can visit many of them in just two days!

Multicultural neighbourhoods: Take a walk around the city’s charming neighbourhoods and you will be met with amazing pictures: blooming gardens, fruit and vegetable markets, colourful windows, people from different cultures, churches, mosques. Nicosia is home to thousands of people from around the world!

Delicious food: The smell of good food is going to drive you crazy in Nicosia. Cypriot meze, Armeni-

an lahmatzoun, Syrian falafel, Lebanese sweets, Italian pizza, Chinese dishes and many other cuisines can be found of great quality and best prices.

Arts and Crafts: With many young artists and older crafters living in Nicosia, the city is full of attractive little workshops and shops with imaginative and beautiful works of art to take with you back home.

Picturesque countryside: Nicosia is the perfect vantage point to visit all those beautiful places in the countryside, such as the UNESCO-protected village of Fikardou, the significant archaeological sites in Dali, the hearty villages of Kakopetria and Kalopanayiotis, and many more.

Festivals and events: Festivals in Nicosia can sate any taste: food and beer fests, youth festival, cultural events, ancient drama festival, concerts and many more, all taking place in open air spaces and theatres!

Beach and mountains: Located in the centre of the island, Nicosia is close to both the beach and the mountains.

It only takes a 35-minute drive to get to the closest beach and around 50 minutes to the island’s highest mountains! And what is more, the weather is perfect for swimming and hiking!

Relaxed days: Nicosia is a vibrant, yet relaxed city and people here enjoy their coffee as much as anyone else! Take a stroll in the city either in the morning or in the afternoon and you’ll see Nicosians enjoying their coffee in beautiful little artisan coffee shops under the sunny sky, for as long as possible.

The details, to tempt you More than 15 museums: Cyprus Archaeological Museums, Leventis Municipal Museum, A.G. Leventis Gallery, Byzantine Museum, Ethnographic Museum, Centre of Visual Arts and Research, Loukia and Michalakis Zampelas Art Museum, State Gallery of Contemporary Art Venetian Walls and other monuments: Venetian walls are a prime example of 16th-century military architecture and an iconic symbol of the city – Famagusta gate- Paphos Gate Churches and mosques of a great architectural value, such as Phaneromeni Church, St John Cathedral, Panayia Chrysaliniotissa and Omeriye Mosque Theatre & Arts: Dozens of theatre teams and organisations, many art galleries, organisation of film festivals such as the Cyprus Film Days, Ancient Drama Theatre Festival, etc.

Modern Architecture: Tower 25 by Jean Nouvel, Eleftheria Square by Zaha Hadid, Wargaming Headquarters, PWC Nicosia Gastronomy: Rich Mediterranean cuisine, plenty of tavernas, restaurants offering international cuisine, cafes and bistros offering brunch and lunch, cafes of different types, bars and wineries.

District of Nicosia: Ayios Sozomenos, Ancient Idalion, Ancient Tamassos, Panayia Chrysospiliotissa Church, Machairas Monastery.

Conference Facilities: Filoxenia Conference Centre, The Hilton, Hilton Park Sports facilities: GSP Stadium, Olympic Swimming pools, Cyprus is chosen for training by football, cycling, swimming, and athletic teams from abroad.

It also offers facilities for golf, watersports, shooting and hiking, as well as for medical support and wellness.

Major sport events: Cyprus Rally, Cyprus Sunshine Cup, Shooting Championship, Beach Volley tournaments, MTB Challenges, Marathon, Triathlon.

Further information: www.visitnicosia.com.cy https://www.facebook.com/VisitNicosia https://www.use-it.travel/cities/detail/nicosia/

FRIDAY JULY 22 2016

TROODOS

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The heights of recreation Relaxation apart, adventure and culture buffs will find diversions aplenty in the Troodos Mountains

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he splendours of Troodos, Cyprus’ largest mountain range, include a wealth of natural beauty and traditional and cultural diversions. But to really encounter them fully, you need to dedicate some time to its five vibrant regions, which include the National Forest Park, Pitsilia, Marathasa, Solea and the Wine Villages. What follows are our suggested highlights through this magical realm of the senses:

Troodos National Forest Park

The National Forest Park (93,000 hectares) provides nature lovers with a large network of nature trails and bicycle routes. Few people are aware that Troodos is regarded by geologists as one of the most important areas in the world due to the appearance of all the rock formations found in the earth’s mantle Points of Interest 1. The Troodos Geopark visitors’ centre at the Amiantos mine, offers tourists insight into the geology of the area. The centre is open daily except on Mondays between 9am and 4pm.

2. Troodos Botanical Gardens ‘A.G.Leventis’ in the old Amiantos mine. The garden includes 150 different types of plants. Open daily from 9am to 2pm and on weekends until 4pm.

3. The Troodos Centre for Environmental Information near Troodos square includes a display of natural sights, featuring stuffed local animals and birds. Open daily from 10am to 4pm. Tel: 25420144 Waterfalls Visiting the waterfalls in the area is a unique experience. Starting from Troodos Square we come to the famous Caledonian Falls in the heart of the forest. The path starts at the Presidential Holiday Cabin or from the Platres area. Following the signs from the church in Platres or from the signs on the road between Platres and Moniatis, you will come to the tallest waterfall, Mylomeri. The third waterfall, Chantaras, on the Trooditissa River is just outside the village of Foini. The fourth waterfall on the Mesa River lies north-west of Saitta near the monastery of Timou Prodromou.

Nature trails The natural beauty of the area is best enjoyed by following the nature trails. Suggestions include: 1. Artemis (circular) distance 7km. Starts 300m from the junction of the road leading to the skislopes with the Troodos-Prodromos road.

2. Atalanta (circular) distance 14km. Starts at Troodos Square.

3. Persefoni (linear) distance 3km. Starts 150m south of Troodos Square towards the police station.

Two unique monasteries are found in the park; the Panagia Monastery of Trooditissa 5km northwest of Platres and the Monastery of Timiou Prodromou at Mesa Potamo.

Platres Romantic Platres, as well as offering a range of accommodation, also boasts options for exercise and adventure, such as: 1. Sparti Adventure Park: www.spartipark.com 2. Platres Athletics Centre, ideal for a range of dynamic sports: www.platressports.com/ For sweet indulgences, visit the unique Platres chocolatier.

Pitsilia

Pitsilia lies east of Mount Olympus and consists of 30 picturesque villages built along the mountainside between vineyards and orchards. A tour of the

TROODOS Environmental centre

area, rich in religious and cultural traditions will fill the visitor with unforgettable memories.

Palaichori 1. The church of ‘Metamorphosis tou Sotiros’ open every Tuesday and Wednesday 10am-1pm. For more information, Tel: 99974230 - 99793362 2. Museum of Byzantine Heritage. Tel: 22643012 3. Museum in memory of the 1955-59 struggle, featuring national hero Grigoris Afxentiou’s famous oven hideout. To arrange a visit: call: 22643012 / 22642772 Agros 1. Family industries of cured meats, sweets and rose products 2. Museum of the artist Frangoulides. To arrange a visit call: 25522144 3. Church of Panagias Eleousas with the unique display of artefacts from the old Pelendri 1. Church of Timiou Stavrou, 12th-century (UNESCO heritage site). To visit, call: 25552369.

2. Family-run cold cuts industries, bakeries and the Tsiakkas winery.

Kyperounta 1. The Museum of Natural History and Rural Life.

(9am-3pm / 99352547) 2. The National Struggle Museum 1955-59 (9am3pm / 99352547) 3. The Church of Timiou Stavrou, 16th-century (9am-3pm / 99352547) 4. Ayia Marina Church, 19th-Centaury (9am3pm / 99352547) 5. Ayios Arsenios Church – a replica of an ancient Christian church (9am-5pm / 99409041 / 993525470) 6. Family run cold cuts industries and Kyperounta Winery For action and adventure, visit the Adventure Mountain Park for ice skating and paintball.

Following the trail through the second-highest village in Cyprus, Chandria, you will reach the peak of the Madaris mountains, where you will see signs pointing out the network of nature trails in the area.

The two most popular nature trails here are: 1.Teisa tis Madaris (circular) distance 3km. Begins near the Madari fire tower; an impressive walk featuring sights of geological interest with sheer, dramatic cliffs.

2.Madari fire tower – Doksasi o Theos (linear) distance 3.8km. Starts near the Madari fire tower or

from the main road Kyperounda-Spilia. Offers views in all directions.

Travelling downhill from Madari, the road takes you through the villages of Lagoudera, Polystipo, Alona, Platanistas, Aska and Fterikoudi with notable religious monuments and the famous Hazelnut Forest.

Lagoudera Panagia tou Araka Church, 12th-century (UNESCO heritage site). Open daily from 9am-5pm (except Mondays).

Alona-Polystipos Trails through the Hazelnut Forest Petros Vanezi Trail (circular) distance 1.5km, takes 2 hours to complete. level of difficulty: 2 Platanistasa Stavros tou Ayiasmati Church (UNESCO Heritage Site). To visit, contact the local coffee shop: 99514179.

Solea Valley

The Karkotis River flows through the Solea Valley, situated along the main Nicosia-Troodos road. It is famous for its Byzantine churches, trout hatcheries and local bakeries.

Kakopetria 1. Ayiou Nicolaou tis Stegis Church, open daily, including weekends, 9am-4pm (except Mondays).

2. Traditional neighbourhood of Kakopetria, traditional buildings and olive press.

3. Nature trail Galata 1. Panagia tou Podithou Church in Galata. Tel: 996717776 2. The Village Folk Museum in the restored community primary school next to the local council.

Open daily, from 9am-3pm Evrychou 1. Evrychou Railway Museum. The museum is housed in the old Evrychou railway station. Open Monday to Sunday, from 9.30am-5pm

Marathasa Valley

The Marathasa Valley lies on the northern side of the Troodos mountain range and can be reached by the Nicosia-Troodos road through Kalopanagiotis, or from Limassol through the Platres-Phini Road.

Kalopanayiotis 1. The monastery of Agios Ioannis Lampadistis with its three churches built between the 11th and

For more information, contact the Troodos Tourism Board. Tel 25421020, e-mail info@mytroodos.com or foreastroodous@cytanet.com.cy or visit www.mytroodos.com Cyprus Tourism Information Office Platres Tel: 25421316, Email: platresinfooffice@visitcyprus.com

16th centuries. Open daily, from 9am-1pm, 4pm6pm 2. Icon vault of the Lampadistis Monastery, open 9.30am-5pm and Sundays 11am-3.30pm The picturesque village of Oikos lies opposite KalopanayiotIs. Travelling to the famous Kykkos Monastery, one passes through Gerakies village.

Kykkos 1. The Panagia tou Kykkou Monastery. Founded in 1100AD, it houses one of three rescued icons of the Virgin Mary, attributed to the Apostle Luke.

2. The Monastery Museum, open daily, from 10am-6pm 3. The tomb of Archbishop Makarios.

Continuing from Kykkos, one reaches the villages of Tsakkistras and Kampos.

Kampos Kampos Forest Museum. For information, call: 22942450 Continuing towards Troodos, we encounter the villages of Pedoulas and Moutoullas.

Pedoulas 1. Pedoulas Folk Museum.Open Tuesday and Sunday, 9.30am-4pm 2. Pedoulas Byzantine Museum. Open Tuesday and Sunday, 9.30am-4pm 3. The ancient church of Archangelos Michael (UNESCO Heritage site). Open daily, 10.30am-5pm Moutoullas The Church of Panagia tou Moutoulla (UNESCO Heritage site) Ask for the key at the local coffee shop.

Continuing towards Troodos, we reach the highest village in Cyprus, Prodromos. Close to the village, you come across Panagia tis Trikoukiotissas Monastery. Driving down from Prodromos, one encounters the remaining villages in the Marathasa Valley: Lemythou, Paliomylos, Ayios Dimitrios, Tries Elies and Kaminaria, where the journey ends with the famous 11 Bridges of the Diarizos River.

The Wine Villages

The Wine Villages form one of the most characteristic regions of Cyprus, and are found on the foothills of the Troodos mountain range. Their features include traditional houses and cobbled roads, and a long history and tradition in vine cultivation.

To reach the Wine Villages, take the LimassolPaphos highway and exit at Erimi, or alternatively follow the Limassol-Platres road. The area consists of 14 villages and is famous for its local produce.

Don’t miss the opportunity to buy wines from the local wineries, as well as the famous glykista koilaniotika sweets and the familiar arkatena bread from the Omodos area. Other highlights include: 1. Timiou Stavrou Monastery 2. Timiou Stavrou Monastery icon vault 3. The EOKA Museum 4. The Lace Museum. Open daily, 9.30am-4pm 5. Traditional houses in the centre of the villages Vasa 1. The Educational Museum which includes the history of education in Cyprus 2. The Zivania Museum and village churches.

The museum is open daily, 8am-1pm / 25942634 3. The caves of Saint Timona and Saint Varnavas Arsos The Arsos Folk Museum. Open daily, 8am-3pm / 25943223 Folk museums can also be found in the villages of Vouni and Kilani.