The magical island of Cyprus provides a magnificent Mediterranean
Climate and diverse countryside to host countless opportunities
for leisure pursuits, no matter how diverse your interests are.
On the Land
Golf - For the avid golfer, it is more than
the sun-kissed days and sparkling Mediterranean Sea that make
Cyprus an irresistible destination. Cyprus provides golfers
with a choice of golf courses to suit all aspirations and
every pocket.
Tsada – 15km north-east from Paphos
is Tsada Golf Club. The course has been designed in two loops
of nine revealing by world-renowned, Donald Steel. With a
Par 72 measuring 6060 metres, the course offers a challenge
to all handicapped golfers and blends perfectly into its natural
surroundings. From the clubhouse players and visitors can
enjoy panoramic views of the course. There is also a restaurant,
bars, a conference room, swimming pool, sauna and games room
to be enjoyed by all who come to visit.
Secret Valley - Situated in the hills above
Petra Tou Rominou, the birthplace of legendary Aphrodite,
Goddess of Love, the course is approximately 18km east of
Pafos. It plays a par 71 and measures 6300 meters and promises
to be a challenging day.
Aphrodite Hills – Aphrodite Hills
is a superb 18 hole golf course of championship standard with
academy and exclusive clubhouse facilities. It is located
300 meters above the sea overlooking the Mediterranean, 2
minutes from the Limassol - Paphos Highway, and 20 Km from
Paphos. It is easily accessible from both towns
Jeep Safaris
Jeep Safaris, provide the opportunity to travel overland and
discover the mysterious and rugged terrain of Cyprus. You can
explore the famous "Akamas Forest" or "Troodos
Mountains and see nature at its best.
Horse Riding
In Cyprus there are a number of equestrian and horse riding
centres where you can enjoy the great outdoors. Most centres
have professional training facilities, instructors who provide
lessons for beginners and advanced riders.
Clay Shooting
International and local competitions are organized often,
with both Cypriot and foreign participants taking part in
competitions. There are various clubs and associations throughout
the island.
Tennis
The Cyprus Tennis Federation, as well as other associations,
organise competitions and tournaments. Tennis courts can be
found throughout the island as well as private clubs in hotels
and apartments.
Trekking & Hiking
The island is filled with rare natural beauty and a large
variety of ecosystems and landscapes, which provide the ideal
environment for trekking and hiking. There are a tremendous
selection of routes to choose from, ranging from dense forest
to magnificent coastlines.
There are walking paths along many of the hillsides
For adventurous hiking head to the Troodos or the Akamas Peninsula,
a thumb-shaped strip of land crisscrossed by rocky hiking
trails. Akamas is the easternmost point of the three major
flora zones of Europe, therefore the number of plant species
found here runs up to 600, of which 35 are endemic.
The variety of fauna is also impressive: 168 bird species,
12 mammals, 20 reptiles and butterfly species of which the
endemic Glaucopsyche pafos butterfly is said to be the symbol
of the area. Akamas is ideal for walking, cycling, swimming,
diving, fishing, exploring, cruising on small craft, and bird
watching.
Cycling
The Cyprus Cycling Federation organizes regular competitions,
which attract participants from around the globe. However if
you are bike enthusiast who enjoys a more relaxed form of cycling
you can rent a bicycle and enjoy the ideal conditions to go
cross-country and mountain biking.
The cycling routes range from 48Km to 168Km and cover both the
plains and mountain routes through picturesque landscapes and
villages.
Out on the water
Fishing
Fisher persons can enjoy their time either out on the Mediterranean
Sea or fresh water fishing in the many rivers and dams scattered
throughout the island. Spear fishing without an aqualung angling,
fishing with vertical lines or trolling are the permitted methods
for which no licence is required. Species of fish, which can
be caught, include sea-breams, groupers, amber jacks, sea-perch
etc and mullet. Extended fishing expeditions of a week or more
can be organised through charter companies. Water
Sports
The Mediterranean blue sea is ideal for water sport enjoyment.
Water sports can be found in many of the resort centres, as
well as in four and five star hotels. There is a plethora
of activities to engage in including Yacht charters, jet-skiing,
para gliding, boating, skiing, surface submarine, Mini Cruises,
Marinas, Waterparks, Canoeing, Sailing, Wind Surfing and much
more…..
Diving
The crystal waters of the Mediterranean Sea with its rather
warm temperature provide for a magnificent submarine world,
make diving very tempting. Diving centers, throughout Cyprus,
provide all the necessary equipment and professional instructors.
There are no dangerous underwater currents or strong surf
in the popular diving areas but divers should always check
with the centres and professionals before entering the waters.
In the shallow rocky reefs you will see a variety of colourful
sea urchins and fan worms, as well as starfish, rays, and
parrot fish. If you look close enough you will discover moray
eels and octopus hiding in crevices along with a colourful
assortment of other marine life. Very often, you may see pieces
of pottery and other ancient artefacts on the sea floor, but
please be aware that the removal of antiquities and sponges
from the sea floor is strictly forbidden.
Cruises
Visitors to Cyprus do not have to remain along the pristine
shorelines as they can be pampered whilst they sail across
the crystal Mediterranean on a cruise to exotic destinations
such as Lebanon, Syria, Egypt and Beirut or a mini cruise
to the nearby Greek Islands. Please visit the website of Paradise
Cruises.
Spectator Activities
There is always something happening in Cyprus. Festivals are
celebrated throughout the year, including fairs, pilgrimages,
carnivals, and religious processions and provide colourful arrays
of costumes that last for days and nights.
For dates of current Festivals & Events please visit
the CTO Events page.
Useful Links
Cyprus Tourism Organisation – UK
17 Hanover Street, London W1S 1YP, UK
Tel: (020) 7569 8800. Fax: (020) 7499 4935.
E-mail: ctolon@ctolon.demon.co.uk
Website: www.visitcyprus.org.cy
Paradise Cruises
www.paradise.com.cy
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