Holidays in Larnaca

Holidays in Larnaca - Destination Profile

On the outskirts of Larnaca is a large salt lake which is home in the cooler months to graceful colonies of flamingos and other migratory birds. Larnaca holidays provide a peaceful and relaxing setting, on the edge of the salt lake lies the Hala Sultan Tekesi a temple built to the memory of Prophet Mohammed's aunt.

Larnaca holidays are a relatively new for tourists, this has come about because a new tourist area has been developed to the east of the town along a stretch of sandy beach offering watersports. Larnaca has a large shopping centre located in the main town as well numerous facilities making Larnaca holidays very popular among tourists.

Larnaca Holidays at Unbeatable Value with Olympic Holidays

Book you holidays to Larnaca with Olympic Holidays the leading specialist tour operator to Cyprus with over 40 years expertise in offering quality holidays at great value. As well package holidays to Larnaca, we offer an excellent range of hotels in Larnaca. For great savings on holidays to Larnaca book online or call our reservations team, lowest price guaranteed!!!

Holidays in Larnaca - Things to see

Amathus - Limassol: Amathus is one of the ancient Kingdom of Cyprus where numerous tombs have been found. Excavations are still continuing at the Acropolis and Agora area of the ancient site.

Kolossi Castle - Limassol: A fine example of military architecture originally constructed in the 13th century, and subsequently rebuilt in the form it is now, in the middle of the 15th century. It served first as the Grand Commander of the Knights Templar, and after the fall of Acre in 1291 for some years, as the headquarters of the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. 14 km (9 miles) west of Limassol, on the road to Paphos.

Kourion - Limassol: Kourion is also an important ancient city kingdom, and one of the more interesting and spectacular archaeological sites on the island with excavations still bringing new treasures to light. Kourion Museum houses a collection of finds, from nearby archaeological sites.

Tombs of the Kings - Paphos: Spread over a vast area, these impressive underground tombs date back to the 4th century BC. They are carved out of solid rock with some being decorated with Doric pillars. High officials rather than Kings were buried here, but the magnificence of the tombs gave the locality its name.

The Mosaics of Paphos - Paphos: The Mosaics of Paphos are considered amongst the finest in the Eastern Mediterranean. They mainly depict scenes from Greek mythology.

Petra tou Romiou - Paphos: Birthplace of Aphrodite, Aphrodite goddess of love and beauty, rose from the waves in this strikingly beautiful spot. The Greek name, Petra tou Romiou 'The Rock of the Greek' is associated with the legendary frontier-guard of Byzantine times Digenis Akritas, who kept the marauding Saracens at bay with amazing strength. It is said that he heaved this large rock into the sea destroying the enemy's ship.

Baths of Aphrodite - Polis: An area of breathtaking beauty associated with Aphrodite. According to legend, the goddess Aphrodite used to bathe in the pool of the nearby natural grotto, which is shaded by a fig tree. A trail from the Baths takes you to Fontana Amorosa (8 km from the Baths, at the end of the Akamas Peninsula). Walking along this trail, one can enjoy an incomparable view and unspoilt nature.

Larnaca Fort - Larnaca: Erected in 1625 by the Turks. This fort is now a museum and its inner courtyard is used as an open air garden theatre during the summer months.

The Pierides Museum - Larnaca: Contains a unique archaeological, medieval, post-Byzantine and Cypriot fork art collections gathered by five consecutive generations of the family. It also exhibits an old arsenal and a rich collection of old chartography of Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean

Ayia Napa: Originally a fishing village it is now a major tourist resort. The charming medieval monastery dedicated to 'Our Lady of the Forests' stands in the middle of the village surrounded by a high wall. It's 16th century church is partly underground and cut into the rock. The Marine Life Museum can be found within the premises of the Agia Napa Municipality.

Cavo Greco: A National Forest Park at the southeastern end of the island between Ayia Napa and Paralimni. The uniqueness of the area is not only due to its natural beauty but also to the fact that it offers a wide range of interests such as swimming, diving, towed parachute, fishing, rowing, cycling, riding, climbing, airports and hiking.

Cairo by Air: Fly off to the magical, mystical land of Egypt - visit the Pyramids, Sphinx and cruise down the Nile.

Holidays in Larnaca - Things to do

Popular activities during holidays in Larnaca include:

Watersports: Watersports All sorts of beach activities from water and jet skiing to windsurfing and pedal boating are catered for along the coast. Both the beaches backing onto hotels and those further afield provide equipment hire

Diving: There are over forty different dive sites in Cyprus. The best way to find out more is to visit one of the area's dive centres. Around Latchi and Akamas you will find the best scuba-diving available anywhere in Cyprus, with crystal clear water and no tides or strong currents to worry about.

Cycling: Cyprus is a natural mountain-biking place. Its terrain offers many opportunities for exciting mountain-biking in different tracks, making the island a paradise for the sport's fans. Due to the excellent weather conditions prevailing on the island, cycling sports can be enjoyed almost throughout the year.

Hiking: The Akamas peninsular, to the north of Paphos, provides an excellent area for walking as it has been virtually untouched by tourism and development. Further afield, numerous interesting walks can be found among the breathtaking Troodos mountains.

Golf: Cyprus is quickly getting a reputation as the latest holiday Mecca for golfers. There are two 18-hole courses only a short drive from Paphos. The Tsada Golf Club near Tsada village is the oldest in Cyprus and is set in the grounds of a twelfth century monastery. The Secret Valley Golf Club is slightly further away, about 18 km east of Paphos.

Skiing: Skiing for the winter lovers. Cyprus is also becoming established as a destination for winter sports. In Cyprus, snow-skiing can be enjoyed on the slopes of Mount Olympus (1951 metres a.s.l.), from the beginning of January to the end of March. Mount Olympus is only 3 km, from Troodos hill resort.

Family Excursions During Larnaca Holidays

Make your holidays to Larnaca extra special and book one of our wonderful excursions, we have a range of excursions that have been carefully selected to cater for everyone's interests. Some of our most popular excursions are:-

Spirit of Famagusta: Once Cyprus's busiest Tourist resort now a virtual Ghost Town, the occupants long gone. Wander along one of the best stretches of beach in Cyprus and view the abandoned city, experience the secrets and feel the spirit of Famagusta!

Waterworld: Rides, slides, spills and thrills! Kamikaze Crazy or sun bed lazy, Waterworld the Award winning water park has something for all the family.

Splendour of the Sea: Feel the breeze through your hair, the sun on your skin as you glide through the crystal clear waters on this luxury Catamaran. Feel like a movie star for the day on this VIP cruise.

Jeep Safaris: Delve into the heart of Cyprus on this unique adventure. Get up close and personal with these specially designed off road vehicles, go to the parts of the Island unreachable by coach or car and see the hidden beauty that Cyprus has to offer. An unmissable adventure for all the family!

Myths and Legends: Travel back in time to the birthplace of Aphrodite the Greek Goddess of Love and beauty. Marvel in the delights of this romantic area and revel in the rich history that Paphos and the Ancient Curium have to offer. Complete your day with some Cypriot delight! A legendary day of discovery and beauty.

Cairo by Air: Less than one hour away by flight, a wealth of history awaits you in the land of the Pharaohs, Egypt. See one of the few remaining seventh wonders of the world the pyramids, treat yourself to some unique bargains at the largest Souk in the middle East Khan El Khalli. See the original death mask of the boy king Tutankhamen completely crafted from Solid gold. Cruise on the famous river Nile through the cosmopolitan city of Cairo. Surprise your friends with a postcard from Egypt during your holiday in Cyprus.

Dynamic Donkeys and Dancing: For those seeking fun and adventure, this unique day takes you to the magnificent 'red' Villages on the friendly donkeys from the Animal shelter. Experience true Cypriot hospitality with free flowing wine and 'Zivania' and some home cooked specialities as the music and dancing starts. An introduction to true Cypriot village culture.

Dolphin Safari: The clear blue waters of the Mediterranean await you! The open-sea rafting vessels are designed to ensure you get to the best coves and bays on the east coast of Cyprus. Take a dip in the glistening waters and swim through the caves, or snorkel and open the window to the underwater world that awaits you. If your lucky you may see flipper!

For further information and to secure your place on all the above exciting days and nights out, see your Olympic representative in the resort. The best time to book would be at the Welcome Get Together on the day after arrival

Holidays in Larnaca - Eating/Drinking

Cyprus has a panoply of choices for night owls of all feathers. You will find traditional entertainment - folk music and dancing - at numerous tavernas and restaurants in the cities as well as in many villages. Tavernas offer a tantalising selection of local food, and dessert is often on the house for visitors. You're sure to enjoy this festive look into many of the colourful customs of old Cyprus.

Eating and drinking Major resorts have bars and restaurants of every category. All over the island there are restaurants offering genuine Cypriot food. One of the best ways of enjoying Cypriot food is by ordering "mezze", a large selection of a number of different local dishes.

There are no licensing hours and the highlight of the wine year is the annual wine festival in Limassol, usually held in September, when free wine flows and local food is on offer.

Nightlife: Nightclubs of all stripes are found in Limassol and Nicosia, Larnaca and Paphos but especially in Limassol and Agia Napa. Ayia Napa is a resort in the eastern part of Cyprus now known as an international clubbing destination, widely recognised for its British House Garage sounds, up-and-coming DJs and festive atmosphere. The action usually gets started late - towards midnight.

Holidays in Larnaca - Climate

Max Temp C	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Cyprus	16	17	19	22	24	29	31	32	31	26	22	20
London	6	7	10	13	17	20	22	21	19	14	10	7

Sunshine Hours	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Cyprus	6	7	8	9	9	11	12	12	11	9	7	5
London	1	2	4	5	6	7	6	6	5	3	2	1

Larnaca holidays - 5 Day Forecast

Holidays in Larnaca - Transport

Car Hire: An excellent way of getting around during Larnaca holidays, car hire gives you complete flexibility as well as the ability to see more of the island.

Taxis: Larnaca holidays are made convenient by the plentiful supply of metered taxis.

Interurban Buses: Various Bus companies link all major towns with daily routes at specified intervals.

Urban Buses: These operate frequently during daytime, during summer and timetables are extended till midnight. These buses operate in many tourist resorts so you can explore as much or as little on your Larnaca holiday.

Bicycles: Bicycles can be hired in most resorts and make a wonderful way to explore the resort when on holiday in Larnaca.

Holidays in Larnaca - Shopping

Popular purchase for those taking holidays in Larnaca include:-

• Discount glasses and sunglasses
• Jewellery
• Lace and linen
• Leather goods