Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, attracting over 2,000,000 visitors every year. The island has something for everyone including friendly people, an amazing coastline, stunning mountain village, family resorts, marinas, a booming agro-tourism scene, world class spas and award-winning golf courses designed by golfing legends. On your bargain holidays to Cyprus, sample tradition Cypriot cuisine and follow the islands new wine trails celebrate the 40 new wineries which have developed on the island in recent years. Six wine routes criss-cross the island, taking in some of the best boutique wineries. Cypriot wine production dates back nearly 5,000 years. The warm waters of Cyprus are perfect for diving and water-skiing while those seeking adventure can explore this beautiful island on trekking or bird-watching tours.

So why go to Cyprus for your winter sun holiday? Apart from holiday packages being at their lowest price at this time of the year, the following are just a few reasons why Cyprus is perfect choice for your holidays during the winter season.

1. Average winter daytime temperatures throughout the whole of Cyprus rarely drop below 20C making this the ideal time to explore the island and all it has to offer. With 340 days of sunshine a year you can be sure to catch some rays throughout December and January. The island’s magnificent blue-flag beaches enjoy sea temperatures in the high teens throughout the winter months making it possible to take a dip on Christmas Day!

kallikantzari

2. Christmas is an amazing time on Cyprus with age-old traditions and plenty of delicious Cypriot food. Unique to the region is the habit of hanging crosses wrapped in basil and sprinkled with holy water on the front door of a house to ward off the kallikantzari (goblin-like spirits), which are said to make mischief during the twelve days of Christmas. The towns and villages across the island celebrate Christmas with magical processions accompanied by kalanda (carols) which have been handed down from generation to generation since Byzantine times. The main festival on Christmas Day is held in Eleftheria (Freedom) Square Nicosia. Larnaca plays host to one of the most dramatic services on the 5th January when young swimmers dive for a cross which they return to the priest.

3. Winter is not excluded from the islands colourful year-round cultural scene. Concerts and events take place all over Cyprus, from local bands, choirs, orchestras, dancers and groups through to Viva Verdi – Moscow New Opera in Rialto, Limassol. Eleftheria Square in Nicosia is the place to be to catch live acts with performances everyday during the last two weeks of December with free entertainment every Sunday at the entrance of the Pafos Mosaics near the harbour.

4. The Cypriot people love their food which plays a major role in their Christmas celebrations. Christopsomo (Christ Bread) accompanied by

kourabiedes

dried figs, nuts and honey are eaten on Christmas Eve with stuffed turkey, roast chicken and roast lamb traditionally served on Christmas day. If you have a sweet tooth you will love the traditional cakes such as kourabiedes (a small almond cake coated in icing sugar), melomakarona (traditional honey cake) and finikia (walnut pie). If you hanker for a traditional British Christmas dinner with all the trimmings you will not be disappointed as most of the hotels observe UK traditions with traditional British fare and festive decorations.

5. New Year is an important date for families in Cyprus with the 1st January marking the Feast of St Basil, the regions equivalent to St Nicholas. This is the main day for present-giving. Downtown Limassol plays host to some of the best New Years Eve parties but most of the hotels celebrate with style. Visitors should celebrate New Year in Cyprus with a piece of Vassilopitta (St Basils Cake) which is baked with a silver or gold coin to bring good luck to the person who finds it.

6. Visit Cyprus for pampering and relaxation. In recent years the island has seen a number of high quality spas and health farms open which mixed together with the year-round good climate and varied terrain offers a great way to recharge your batteries. Intense yoga stays and relaxing spa breaks together with treatments which are indigenous to Cyprus, such as the chance to be immersed in the healing waters at Ayii Anargyri, will leave you feeling totally relaxed and revitalised.

7. Car hire is exceptionally cheap at this time of the year giving visitors a chance to explore this amazing island under their own steam. The Cyprus Tourism Organisation has teamed up with the Travel Foundation to create 6 self-drive routes which will guide you to some of the most beautiful and special parts of the hidden interior of the island.

Just a four hour flight from the UK, December holidays in Cyprus remain a popular winter sun holiday choice with visitors from the UK and all over – 136,000 Brits who visited the island last year can’t be wrong!

Thanks to visitcyprus.com for the above facts and figures.

Cyprus enjoys all year round sunshine making it perfect for indulging in your favourite activities during your holidays. Activities include golf, diving, sailing, hiking, cycling and many more.

Golf

Cyprus has three international standard 18 hole golf courses. Located in the Paphos region, these courses are situated in the peaceful landscaped hills offering amazing views across the Mediterranean Sea. Although these courses are set away from the main tourist resorts, they are still near enough for easy access.
Popular courses include the award winning Aphrodite Hills, Elea Golf Club, Minthis Hills which sits between the orchards and vineyards of a 12th century monastery and the Secret Valley Golf Course which is located near the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite.

Akrotiri Reserve

Diving

The island is blessed with crystal clear warm waters which are ideal for diving. With sea temperatures ranging from 16C to 27C around the island Cyprus offers the longest diving seasons in the Mediterranean. Divers will see an amazing array of brightly coloured fish, coral, sponges, sea anemones, octopus and sea urchins as they dive to the spectacular coastal reefs. The island runs a turtle conservation project, thanks to which has increased the number of sea turtles around the island. Cyprus has many underwater caves and tunnels just waiting to be explored.
Popular sites include the Amphitheatre Diving Site, the Three Stars Wreck Diving Site, the Green Bay Diving Site (an ancient ship wreck) and the Akrotiri Reserve Diving Site.

Sailing

Whilst on your cheap package holidays to this amazing island, charter a boat for the day and be spoilt by the ships crew as you sail along the beautiful Cypriot coastline. The island has many secluded bays that only accessible by boat where you can stop off to sunbathe on the beach and enjoy a dip in the crysal blue waters. For the more adventurous spend a day deep sea fishing.
Cyprus has two marinas and five ports. Larnaca Marina has 450 berths and attracts yachts from all over the world, especially in the winter when people live on their boats whilst docked in the marina.

Hiking

Hiking is an excellent way to discover Cyprus. There are lots of nature trails and signposted paths to suit all levels of hikers, from easy walking to more challenging walks. The spring is considered to be the best time for hiking when  the island is just coming into bloom.
Hiking in the Troodos Mountains and the Akamas Peninsula is very popular along with the Cyprus Section of the European Walking Route E4. This

Troodos Mountains

 section takes you from Larnaca Airport to Paphos Airport, passing through Cape Gkreko, up the Troodos Mountains and down to the Akamas region.

Cycling

Cyprus has many cycling routes or the more adventurous can make up their own. Cycling around the island enables you to visit secluded coves, ancient ruins and amazing landscape that you would probably miss if you were travelling by car.
The Cyprus Cycling Federation organises competitons throughout the year, mainly in the spring. These events are suitable for all levels of riders from leisure and fun riders to elite riders.

To enjoy some great Cypriot hospitality, top class accommodation, amazing beaches and a wealth of nature, history and culture look out for the many last minute holidays that are always available to the beautiful island of Cyprus.

When the children want a break from the beautiful, sandy beaches of Cyprus why not try some of the following suggestions for something a bit different.

The Marine Park – Ayia Napa

Here you can see shows starring dolphins and sea lions.

The Marine Life Museum – Ayia Napa

Located in Ayia Napa’s town hall, the museum has exhibits of past and present marine life and is the first natural museum of its type in Cyprus. Among the exhibits are a reconstruction of a dinosaur seabed, fossils, sea urchins, turtles, marine plants and much more.

The Dinosaur Park – Ayia Napa

The dinosaurs here move and make dinosaur noises.

Waterworld Waterpark

Waterworld Themed Waterpark – Ayia Napa

Based on ancient Greek mythology, the park has 18 water attractions.

The Ocean Aquarium Park – Protaras

With over 500 species, including crocodiles, penguins, sharks, stingrays and moray eels.

Protaras Fun Park – Paralimni

A fun filled park with pool and waterslides/chutes.

Camel Park

The Camel Park – Mazotos Village, Larnaca

Found between Larnaca and Limassol, here at the camel park you will find camel rides, Noahs Ark with goats, ponies, horses, deer, ostrich, kangaroos, a kids play area, swimming pool and a restaurant.

Paleontology Museum – Larnaca

The museum has a large collection of fossils, some dating back over 500 million years ago. Here you can also see the remains of the extinct pygmy hippo and extinct pygmy elephant.

The Ostrich Wonderland Theme Park – Lefkosia

One of the biggest ostrich farms in Europe. A fascinating day out when you can learn all about ostriches.

Cyprus Donkey Sanctuary

The Cyprus Donkey Sanctuary – Limassol

This is a working sanctuary that takes care of old, sick and unwanted donkies. Children can ‘adopt’ a donkey here.

Fasouri Waterpark – Limassol

Set in 25 acres of land, the park has more than 20 waterslides for all the family to enjoy.

Wet ‘n’ Wild Waterpark – Limassol

This park is based on the Wet ‘n’ Wild Waterpark in Orlando, America.

Galactica Luna Park & Bowling – Limassol

Here you will find 24 lanes of bowling, luna park, video games and internet cafe.

Aphrodite Waterpark

Aphrodite Waterpark – Paphos

Located close to the seafront in the tourist area of Paphos, here you will find lots of different rides and a restaurant.

Island Cove (Adventure Mini Golf) – Paphos

An 18 hole mini golf course set in lovely landscapes which is fun for all the family.

The Bird Park – Paphos

Here you will see beautiful birds, including flamingos, parrots, eagles and ostrich.

The Aquarium – Paphos

Not only will you find fish from all over the world here but you will also find sharks and crocodiles.

Of course there are many, many more attractions for the whole family to visit whilst on your family holidays in Cyprus.

With thousands of cheap holidays to Cyprus on offer throughout the internet you will be spoilt for choice.

For more information on Cyprus and to view my latest articles please visit my Cyprus Blog which i hope you will find interesting and informative.

Cyprus is a haven for trekkers all year round. It has everything from hillside paths to coastal paths and easy walks to more strenuous walks.

Troodos Mountains

The most popular trekking areas are Troodos, Akamas Peinsular, Cape Grecco and Paphos.

The best time to go trekking in Cyprus is in the spring when the natural habitat is in full bloom.

If you are looking for bargain holidays to Cyprus, there are always plenty of great offers throughout the internet.

The Troodos Mountains offer dirt tracks which weave through beautiful pine forests. On a trek through this area you will see old quaint villages, old mines, waterfalls and wonderful views over Cyprus.
There are four main trails in the Troodos area, Atalante which goes around

Caledonian Waterfalls

 Mount Olympus, Persephone which takes you to a point with magnificent views, Kalidonia which leads to the Caledonian Waterfalls and Artemis which goes around the Chionistra peak. One of the harder treks of the Troodos is the trek to Phini (famous for it’s pottery) which takes in the historic Trooditissa Monastery.

Akamas Coastline

Not quite as high as the Troodos Mountains are the the hills of the Akamas Peninsula in the southwest of Cyprus. Treks in this area  take you along the rocky shoreline near Paphos and through forests and coves and to the Baths of Aphrodite.

With ancient monuments, three championship golf courses, wonderful sandy beaches and more than 300 days of sunshine a year, what better place to visit than Cyprus.

And when in Cyprus, why not have some family fun at one of the fantastic waterparks.

WaterWorld

WaterWorld, Ayia Napa

This waterpark has received more than 20 awards.
Based on ancient Greek mythology there are 18 attractions, including the Aeolos Whirlwind, Drop To Atlantis, The Fall of Icarus, The Quest of Heracles, Kamikaze Slides, Chariot Chase, Apollos Plunge, Phaethons Flume, Serpentine Slides, Minatours Labyrinth, Atlantis Activity Pool, Trojan Adventure, Pegasus Pool, Poseidons Wave Pool, Aphrodites Bath, Danaides Waterworks, River Odyssey and Zephyrs Breeze.
There are plenty of places to eat here, including Dionysos Temple (self service restaurant), Homers Burger Palace (fast food restaurant), Sirens Fish & Chips, Minotaurs Pizza, Ice Cream Parlour and the Creperie.

Watermania

Watermania Waterpark, Fasouri

In 2007 Watermania won the World Travel Awards for the best waterpark.
The rides here are all arranged in age appropriate categories.
Attractions include The Cross Over Pools, The Black Hole & Extreme Black Hole Slides, Black Cannons, Kamikazi Slide, Lazy River, Six Lane Mat Racer, Triple Tube Slide, Big Orange Wet Bubble, Wave Pool, Two Aqua Tube Slides,  The Juice Factory Interactive Centre, Probowl, Body Slides, Swimming Pool, Kids Pool.
Places to eat and drink include Canal Restaurant (groups only), Pirates Cove Restaurant, Grill & Pasta House, Wiki Wiki Cafe, Sorts Cafe/Bar, Mini Donut Kiosk, Ice Cream Kiosk and Makai Pool Bar (squeeze juice bar).

Aphrodite Waterpark

Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark, Paphos

There are three types of attractions here. Those for thrills, including Kamikazi, Five Lane Racer, Black Hole, Wild Water, Free Fall, Adventure, Fast River and Family Rafting.
Those for fun, including Super Volcano, Wave Pool, Lazy River, Cross Over, Wet Bubble and Try Dive.
Those for kids, including Kiddies Pool, Soak and Splash, Wet Bubble, Water Mushrooms, Spraying Elephant, Mini Volcano, Pirate Ship Slide, Slow Slide and Fast Slide.
Eating options include the Kyrenia Restaurant, International Fast Food and three Refreshment Kiosks.

Don’t forget there is lots, lots more to enjoy so why not book your last minute holidays and enjoy all that Cyprus has to offer.

For more information on Cyprus and to view my latest articles please visit my Cyprus Blog.

Ayia Napa was once a small fishing village in the southeastern corner of Cyprus but is now a hotspot for holidaymakers looking for a lively break. More than 250,000 clubbers visit Ayia Napa each summer and the phenomenal atmosphere in its bars and nightclubs is nothing short of explosive. However this cosmopolitan town isn’t just for the young party lovers, it is also full of history and tradition.

Ayia Napa Town

Ayia Napa Town

The centre of the town is built around a medieval monastery. This has been well preserved over the centuries and a visit here is like stepping back in time. Just to the side of the main square, traditional folk dancing takes place during the summer. At the end of September, the Ayia Napa Street Festival takes place and features singing and dancing performances. Special acts from all over the world come here to perform at the festival. One of the most beautiful locations to visit in Ayia Napa is the fishing harbour. The whole of the harbour is a pedestrian only zone, with cafes and seafood taverns lining the area. A wooden walkway spans the length of the harbour. At night, lights illuminate the area, setting the perfect scene for a romantic meal or a stroll along the harbour.

Ayia Napa Water World

Ayia Napa Water World

Ayia Napa is home to the largest themed water park in Europe. The park has a Greek theme to it and models of ancient Greek gods and ancient buildings are situated around the park. The water park covers a huge area and is packed with slides and water attractions to suit everyone. For small children, there is the Trojan Adventure, a play structure with water pistols, slides and a bucket that fills with water and soaks everyone in its path.

Ayia Napa Diving

Water sports

There is a range of great water sports offered here including scuba diving. The waters surrounding the island are warm and clear, with even tides and visibility reaching 100 to 130 feet. Divers can visit undersea remains of prehistoric archaeological ruins and explore rock gardens teeming with sponges. There is also waterskiing, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing and scooters, as well as pedal, motor and speed boats.

Marine Life Museum

Marine Life Museum

The Marine Life Museum is located in Ayia Napa’s Town Hall. It is the first natural museum of its kind in Cyprus and it exhibits past and present marine life and promotes the study and research of marine life while also emphasising the importance of preserving the marine environment. The exhibits include a reconstruction of a dinosaur seabed, fish fossils, shells, sea urchins, sea turtles, sea plants and more. Every specimen in the museum was removed from its natural habitat after death.

Famagusta

Famagusta

Famagusta is one of the most important, greatly fortified ports on the shores of the Mediterranean. To the north of Famagusta lie the fabulous ruins of Salamis. The spectacular ruins give a fascinating insight into long-lost civilisations and include a magnificent amphitheatre, Roman baths, a gymnasium and royal tombs. There are also beautiful mosaics to be seen. Just inland from Famagusta are the church and monastery dedicated to St Barnabas, the founder of the apostolic church on Cyprus in 45 AD. The church of St Barnabas is preserved so that it appears exactly as it was when abandoned in 1976. There is a wonderful collection of 18th century icons and the monastery walkway now houses an archaeological museum.

The Palaces

Palaces

In between Limnara Beach and Cape Greco are the Palaces. They do not make up any particular building, but are a name for the marvellous formations which have been formed on the rocks here. The rocky beach has been sculptured in such a breathtaking manner by the sea waves that it gives the impression of being a fine work of architecture, hence its name. The reflected light together with the crystal waters form a wonderful picture. This place can only be reached from the sea.