Paphos

For most people, Paphos holidays are all about the gentle bustle of life around the harbour. Full of tavernas and places to sit back and watch the world go by, the colourful fishing vessels fill the scene, many offering peaceful cruises around the bay and an undemanding way to while away a sunny afternoon.

Paphos, on the south west coast of Cyprus was once the island's capital, steeped in history, it provides a good dose of culture; with the Tomb of the Kings, the famous Paphos Mosaics and many other notable sites found close by. A short drive will take you to the site where, legend has it, Aphrodite, Goddess of love, was born. No surprise then that holidays to Paphos are a huge attraction for couples wishing to get married or honeymoon here. Today this charming fishing harbour by the Fort with the breathtaking Troodos Mountains as its backdrop, welcomes you with open arms, and the al fresco tavernas and pretty sand and pebble beaches are the foundation for a truly relaxing holiday.

Paphos is certainly not short of lovely beaches, with sandy Coral Bay being one of the most beautiful, with sparkling clear waters which are excellent for swimming, diving and other watersports. Some of the best hotels and restaurants are located here too and you can shop for fish and local Cyprus delicacies to tickle those taste buds. Conveniently located is Pachyammos Beach, one of the six beaches of Paphos to be awarded the Blue Flag and a little further out to the north of Paphos is Lara Bay, also known as Turtle Beach. Catch a boat from Paphos Harbour to this glorious place where the mountains meet the sea and an area surrounded by miles of rough tracks – great for hiking and observing nature. Head there to see turtles nesting on the beach and the occasional glimpse of the endangered monk seal. 

Latchi fishing village and beach are located on the unspoilt Akamas Peninsula. Originally a sponge diving area, the beach here is quiet and remains an ideal spot for scuba diving and swimming, and the charming tavernas and cafes along the shore, specialising in seafood, provide a lovely spot to take a break.

Paphos holidays are perfect for holidaymakers of any age who value the friendly, laid back atmosphere and Cypriot charm so in evidence here. While there are plenty of restaurants and tavernas to make the evenings go with a swing, it does not have the frenetic nightlife of some of the other Cyprus hotspots, so whatever your tastes, you’re guaranteed to find enjoyment.