Travel and leisure
Destinations
Cyprus for all seasons
Aphrodite's isle needn't be just a summer-sun retreat
The third largest island in the Mediterranean has much going for it. There's the favourable weather for a start (an average of six hours sunshine in winter and a mild climate that rarely dips into single figures), plus English is widely spoken.
There is also a wealth of attractions, a varied landscape and the islanders have a reputation for being exceptionally friendly and welcoming. Here we highlight just a few of the experiences you can enjoy during a winter sun sojourn...
From grape to glass
Cyprus lays claim to the world’s oldest continuously produced wine, Commandaria. It also yields some of the richest harvests thanks to both an abundance of private and commercially-grown vineyards. Enjoy a tour of the winelands and pause for tastings of the island’s trademark sweet white wine.
Tranquillity in Troodos
Hike through the pine-clad foothills of the Troodos Mountains to discover Kykkos, a Byzantine Monastery dating from 1100 which contains a rare and valuable collection of painted icons – one is believed to have been painted by St Luke.
Fancy footwork
Take to the dance floor for a crash course in Greek dancing. At the Alexander the Great Beach Hotel in Paphos you will soon pick up the simple steps of such dances as the syrto, a lively line dance, under the tutelage of a well-practiced Cypriot.
The paths less travelled
With its rugged terrain, Byzantine ruins and breathtaking landscapes, Cyprus is made for off-road exploration. Head off the beaten track for a thrilling, if bumpy, ride to discover hidden bays, shaded woods and perhaps the odd animal or two.
Find love on the rocks
Petra tou Romiou, a boulder more commonly known as Aphrodite's Rock, pictured above, is reputedly the place where Aphrodite, the goddess of love, emerged from the sea in ancient times. Legend says that if you swim around the rock three times beneath a full moon you will fall in love...
Hoof it
Tack up and take to the saddle for a mosey along the Akamas Peninsula, a national park in the north-west that features an abundance of rare and endemic flora and fauna.
