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Troodos Mountains
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01
Cape Greko National Park
Explore the multitude of intriguing nature trails lined with pine trees and a diverse botanical splendour whilst pausing to take in the spectacular views from the sea cliffs looking down to the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Many benches are spread out along these trails to take a break from the walk and admire the surroundings in stillness. One of these nature trails forms part of the European Long Distance Trail E4, running from Cyprus to Gibraltar. Then there’s the Aphrodite nature trail which stretches 2 km along the North-East coast of Cape Greko which doubles up as a Cultural Route due to the mythical birth place of Aphrodite.
02
Nissi Beach
The beach Nissi Beach is located 3.5 kilometers West of Ayia Napa’s town centre. It is covered with fine golden sand and it is well sheltered from the winds, hence the mild waves. It is a beach with a rocky formation on its central and Western part. On the Eastern side of the beach, there is a small islet located a short distance from the coastline (45 metres). Due to the low-depth water between the small islet and the main coast, but also due to the relatively short distance between these two points and the effect of the coastal waves, we observe the union of the beach with the island through the formation of a unique sand lane. This phenomenon is remarkable and is considered a landmark, both for Ayia Napa and for Cyprus in general. In the immediate area there are accommodation facilities available for rent, restaurants, a kiosk, and family friendly bars.
03
Thalassa Municipal Museum
The museum has the sea as its subject-matter. The exhibits cover a chronological span, from paleontological to prehistoric periods until present times and includes among other exhibits the replica of a Mesolithic (9200 B.C.) papyrus vessel, an exact life size replica of the ancient ship of Kyrenia of the Classical period ( 400 B.C.) , a traditional Cypriot ship of 19th century, known as “Passara”. The sea museum also houses Cypriot antiquities, bones and skulls of endemic pygmy hippopotami and elephants of Cyprus (8000 years old) as well as fossilized exhibits such as sea-urchin, and corals. Visitors can also look at stuffed mammals, fish, sea turtles and marine organism such as shells, barnacles, starfish, sponges, crabs, lobsters, and marine plants. These are just some of the indigenous examples on display which come from all around the island.
A. G. Leventis Gallery: From March onwards, Nicosia is a proud host of the art collection of the late Anastasios Leventis. This tribute to European art is housed in a customized art gallery. Divided into three sections, the exhibition features paintings from the Paris collection featuring works of European masters, El Greco, Monet, and Chagall to name but a few. On another floor, the Greek collection features names such as Konstantinos Parthenis and Konstantinos Volanakis. The Cypriot collection offers the opportunity to view the first, very important steps of modern and contemporary Cypriot art. The seat of honour goes to Adamantios Diamantis’ 17-metre painting entitled “The World of Cyprus”. But there are treasures from other great Cypriot artists, among them Telemachos Kanthos, Michalis Kashalos, Christoforos Savva, Pol Georghiou, and Ioannis Kissonergis.
04
Fig Tree Bay (Protaras)
The bay is named after the solitary fig tree which stands at the headland of the beach and has overlooked the bay ever since its arrival with eastern invaders in the 17th century. Fig-tree bay is Protaras’ coastal jewel in the crown. Its crystal clear waters and fine-grained, golden sand has made the beach very popular and is why it features today on Trip Advisor as among the best beaches in Europe. It has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag for its outstanding water quality and public facilities and it is a Green Beach under the eco-initiative “Green Cyprus Beaches”. The islet at its north only serves to add to its splendour while simultaneously helping to keep the sea calm. It is easily accessible for exploration by adventurous swimmers. Fig Tree Bay offers excellent facilities, including sun beds and parasols available for hire and a wide range of water sports such as waterskiing and paragliding. It provides disabled access and is supervised by lifeguards.
05
Profitis Elias Chapel (Protaras)
The Byzantine church of Prophet Elias was built in 1984, around the older ancient chapel. Set on a 100m high granite hill a short distance from the heart of Protaras, it stands out as an imposing landmark. It was built using indigenous stones of the area, blending in with the natural surroundings of the area. The chapel is especially awe-inspiring in the evenings when it is lit up from all sides. Ascending the 156 steep steps to the chapel of Prophet Elias rewards the visitor with spectacular panoramic views of the area. Encompassing it base is the multicolored, cosmopolitan tourist location of Protaras. Due east is the vast expanse of the Mediterranean Sea with its crystal blue waters. Gazing north you can see Famagusta, Pentadaktylos, and on a clear day one may even see the Karpasia Peninsula; all of which are in the occupied part of Cyprus..!
06
Ayia Thekla Beach & Chapel
Agia Thekla (Saint Thekla) is a small beach named after the old small church which is has stood there for centuries. The beach, which lies a few kilometers from Agia Napa, is covered with fine golden sand and surrounded by crystal blue waters. The general area of Ayia Thekla is a huge development of villas, and a mix of residential and holiday lettings. The seafront area of Ayia Thekla has its own beach as well as many smaller, secluded spots along the coast. Explore this wonderful area and take in the tranquility and beauty.
07
Ayia Napa Monastery
No one knows exactly when the Monastery was built. The cave, the hiding place and the well, testifies to the presence of a Christian community there during the Byzantine years (11th century). The first part of the temple was built during the Frankish period (13th – 14th century), while the rest of the Monastery was completed in the 15th century. As the Monastery stands today it is widely accepted that is a construction of the 15th century, a time during which Cyprus was under the Venetian regime. The monastery is held as the most prominent landmark in the heart of Ayia Napa. It is accessible to everyone who desires to study it, or light a candle for a loved one, and is located in the central square, about 2km away from the harbour. Among some of the well-known visitors of the monastery was the Nobel Prize poet Giorgos Seferis, a Greek man, who was awestruck by the beauty he beheld when he visited it. He decided to dedicate a hymn to the Monastery, thus writing the poem “Ayia Napa B’ ”which can be found in his collection of poems titled “Emerologio Katastromatos C” (Logbook III.)
08
Cape Greko Environmental Center
The Cape Greko Environmental Center includes three aquariums which present the marine habitats of Cape Greko area and host fish of the region. In addition the architectural design has been awarded the first prize in the Architecture Competition. The guests enter the Environmental Center by an appropriately arranged hallway. Moreover in the lobby there is a store, which offer souvenirs from the area of the National Park of Cape Greko. Passing the lobby, the visitor enter the area of informative lectures and exhibition. At that point the visitor can be informed about the terrestrial, marine and underwater wealth of the region. In the media area there is an educational area. In addition experienced staff deliver courses to school students, about Cape Greko (Kavo Gkreko), Cyprus and the natural environment in general.
09
Sea Caves (Cape Greko)
There are many caves along the coastline from Agia Napa to Cape Greko National Park. Many people come here to snorkel and the locals come here before the crack of dawn to fish. The Palace caves and the Smugglers caves are deep passages in to the cliffs which are only accessible from the sea. Some extend as deep as 240 feet in to the rock. During calm seas and at low tide it is possible to swim and even walk in to most of them. Although they have a rock-strewn environment the waters are wonderfully clear. Boat trips regularly pass by daily. There are spots of deep water amongst the rocks where spirited folks engage in the extreme sports of cliff diving/jumping.
10
Ayios Nikolaos Chapel & Fishing Shelter (Protaras)
The small scenic harbour of Agios Nicolaos (Saint Nikolas) is located in the resort of Pernera and is overlooked by the chapel which lends its name to the harbor. The humble chapel adds a charm and subdued beauty to the harbor area. You can rest and enjoy a coffee while taking in the peace-inducing views of the sea and the harbor and watching the sea vessels come and go on the waters. At sunset the whole scenery takes a more breathtaking view. In an attempt to honor their protector – Saint Nicolaos – everyone involved in marine professions in Paralimni, decided to build a chapel dedicated to him (the saint is considered by all Cypriots to be the protector for the seas). The chapel is found next to the sea overlooking the harbor where fishermen tie their boats. Small in size, whitewashed with a blue painted dome, the chapel of Agios Nicolaos, is reminiscent of some of the chapels found on the Aegean islands.
11
Konnos Beach
Located to the East of Agia Napa Konnos bay stands out from within the Cape Greco national Park. Found in between Protaras and Agia Napa the beach is prominent for its white sands and crystal water. Flanked by rocky hills full of pine trees the road to the beach offers excellent opportunities for amazing photographs. Access is also via the Grecian Park Hotel above. Special plastic sun beds tailor-made for this beach and which can be used on water, are available for rent. Many yachters drop anchor here to relax for hours.
12
Limanaki (Ayia Napa Harbour)
This contemporary harbour is fully renovated with a large fleet of fishing boats, speed boats, sailboats and cruise ships. The land mass incorporates pedestrian lanes which lead to the two lighthouses located in the area. The charming Ayia Napa Harbour is unquestionably one of the main features of the town, after Cape Greco and the Medieval Monastery. Many decades ago, the harbour was merely a tiny bay with a few fishing boats. In the beginning of the 70’s, the first breakwater was constructed which basically marked the beginning of the current development of the harbor. The area around the harbour includes an open theatre, fountains, old-style cafes, fish taverns and restaurants. The ambiance around the picturesque harbour is a palpable adornment and it is rightfully classified among the most contemporary and colurful harbours in Cyprus.
13
Makronisos Beach
Makronisos Beach lies 5 km west from Ayia Napa’s centre. It is a golden sandy beach, covered with waves of average intensity. The beach was originally formed by a cluster of small bays. The small bays extend towards different directions; the first is Westerly, the second Southwest, and the third Southeastwards. There are accommodation facilities available for rent, restaurants, a kiosk, and other conveniences in the area. You can also visit the Necropolis (ancient city) of Makronisos and walk eastwards towards the beach Vathia Yonia, or head west towards Ayia Thekla beach.
14
Famagusta Windmills
The windmills made their first appearance in Paralimni in the beginning of the 20th century and were used by farmers to pump water up for the irrigation of their fields. They soon multiplied in number and as a result, Protaras, its most productive area, is often referred to as the land of windmills. The antiquated windmills were later on replaced by mechanical pumps. Today, the large number of old windmills testifies to the ingenuity and productivity of a bygone era while lending a quaint, nostalgic beauty to the landscape of the area.
15
Kokkinochoria (Red Soil Villages)
Inland from the popular holiday resorts of Agia Napa and Paralimni / Protaras, with their golden sandy beaches and turquoise seas, are a number of picturesque villages in an area known as the “Kokkinochoria”, meaning Red Soil villages, thanks to the red earth in which the potatoes that the area is famous for are grown. Watch the local people working in the fields cultivating potatoes or kolocase, Cyprus’ famous root vegetable.
Visit places of natural beauty, such as Potamos, and see the fishermen mending their nets. Discover the treasures that the inland villages hold, such as the folk art museum at Dherynia and Avgorou, or the charming stone Byzantine churches and chapels, found scattered all around the area.
In Sotira the church of Agios Mamas has wall paintings dating to the 16th century and the church of Sotiros has superb 13th century wall paintings. Another interesting church is the 16th century cruciform church of Panagia Chortakiotissa. An old chapel in the centre of the village has been turned into a small ecclesiastical museum to house a number of interesting artefacts.
The village of Frenaros has a number of small Byzantine churches, two of which, those of the Archangel Michael and of Agios Andronikos, date back to the 12th century.
The village of Liopetri has a 16th century church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and a 15th century church of Agios Andronikos with an octagonal dome, and the remains of murals which can still be distinguished in the apse.
The single-aisled domed church of Agios Georgios in the village of Xilofagou was built and decorated in the late 15th century.
Paralimni has an interesting vaulted church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which incorporates a small ecclesiastical museum.
Dherynia has a number of churches in and around the town, such as the 15th century chapel of Agia Marina, that of the Virgin Mary (Panagia) and the church of Agios Georgios, a small Byzantine church with a dome.
One of the most picturesque churches in the area can be seen near Vrysoules, that of Agios Giorgios Pygadion.
16
Ayia Napa Sculpture Park
The Sculpture Park is an area of 20.000 square metres found on the crossroad of Cavo Greco Avenue and Kryou Nerou. It is an expanse of unbelievable natural beauty and breathtaking panoramic view. It’s a park gem, the first of its kind which acts as an oasis of culture, not only for Ayia Napa, but also for the whole free area of Famagusta district. The park is adorned with sculptures which have been created by a number of worldwide known artists who participate in the Sculpture Symposium organized every year by the Municipality of Ayia Napa.
17
Ayia Napa Waterworld (Waterpark)
Ayia Napa Waterpark is located on Ayia Theklis Street, on the west entrance of Ayia Napa. It is one of the twelve best water parks worldwide according to American Television Network CNN, with award-winning international prizes and distinctions. The Waterpark is an ancient Greek mythology themed park. What makes it so special is the fact that the depicted Greek characters of the water park are displayed in a simplistic yet realistically depicted way throughout the park, including the water slides and the plethora of games found in all the entertainment areas, such as the Fish Spa and the Go Karts.
18
Nightlife in Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa has some of the best night life in Europe, with a wide choice of clubs and over seventy bars – there is something for everyone in Ayia Napa. It is packed with bars, clubs and entertainment to suit every taste and budget; from the latest EDM, Hip Hop, House and RnB, right through to rock music, acoustic performances – and of course, karaoke.
19
Mini Cruises & Boat Trips
A holiday to Ayia Napa & Protaras is not complete without a boat trip. A boat trip is a fun day out for anyone wanting to view the stunning coastline in this area or just do something different to the usual beach activities. The coast on the eastern side of Cyprus is dominated by the dramatic summit of Cape Greco. You can also gaze upon the natural rock structures in the sea caves and enjoy the gentle sea breeze as you sail towards the ghost town of Famagusta during a day cruise. Most boat trips journey pass the popular and idyllic cove at Konnos bay or the Blue Lagoon where you can stop for a swim in the gorgeous waters.
20
Famagusta District Diving Centres
Cape Greko has a number of picturesque dive sites with easy access from the shore. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver – you will find plenty of dive sites to interest you around the famous Cape Greko, which is located between Ayia Napa and Protaras. All dive sites are within a 10 minute driving distance from your hotel. If you are staying in the Ayia Napa or Protaras resorts, as a novice diver you will be taken to the quaint “Green Bay” inlet, where you will dive in an area that is littered with ancient pottery that is fused into the rocks. Feed the huge varieties of fish that wait to welcome the divers, and get photographs to show loved ones your unique dive which will include the awesome spectacle of the ancient Greek statues which will make your adventure one to remember. The most interesting dive sites in Ayia Napa & Protaras are the six following: Green Bay, Cyclop’s caves, Canyon Caves, Liberty Wreck, Chapel, and the Nemesis III Wreck.