Cyprus - The third largest tourist island in the Mediterranean. Resorts of Cyprus are visited annually by thousands of tourists, and most of the beaches are awarded with the blue flag of the European Union for cleanliness. Today we will tell you about the seven best resorts in Cyprus, which will provide you with an unforgettable vacation.
You might be interested in the fresh rating of hotels in Turkey for 2014.
Limassol
Limassol, spread out on the southern coast of the island of Cyprus, is the second largest city in the country. The city in ancient times was one of the administrative and economic centers of the island. At certain stages of history, he even performed metropolitan functions. The history of Limassol goes back to the ancient times of the heyday of ancient Hellenic culture. Subsequently, new civilizational strata introduced by the conquerors were superimposed on Greek culture. Evidence of all this cultural diversity is the architecture of Limassol. Here you can watch medieval knightly castles, Italian-style buildings, Turkish fortresses and mosques. The main attraction of the city, of course, is the Ayia Napa Church, built in the Middle Ages, and still retaining its original greatness.
Limassol is the most fun and cheerful city in Cyprus. Year-round crowds of nonchalant tourists can be seen on its streets. Indeed, there is everything for a wonderful holiday - magnificent nature, clear sea, wide beaches and beautiful hotels. Together with a high level of service, this contributes to the increasing popularity of the resort among foreign tourists. Limassol is also known as a venue for various holiday festivals. The most enchanting of them is the celebration in honor of the god of winemaking Dionysus.
Larnaca
Larnaca is the third most important city in Cyprus and one of the main resort areas of the country. The history of the city originates from ancient times. Presumably, Larnaca arose on the site of the Phoenician settlement of Kition. The city acquired its current name in 1600. Throughout their history, these places have repeatedly passed under the power of various conquerors. The Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Venetians, Turks, British - all of them left their mark in the unique appearance of the city. Larnaca and its environs are simply a haven for history and architecture lovers. Here you can see the magnificent Panaya Angeloktisti Church, which, according to legend, was built by angels descending from heaven; Turkish mosque Hale Sultan Tekke, which was erected at the site of a meteorite; the church of St. Lazarus with its unique wooden iconostasis and much more. The outskirts of the city abound with monuments of ancient times.
A favorite place for walking tourists is a beautiful promenade, lined with palm trees. Here, sitting in one of the restaurants, you can watch for hours beautiful serene seascapes. To the east of the city is a large tourist complex with many hotels, restaurants and magnificent, world famous sandy beaches.
Pathos
In popularity among tourists visiting Cyprus, the resort town of Paphos, undoubtedly, occupies a leading place. The peak of the greatness of the city was in ancient times, when it served as the capital of the island of Cyprus. Due to its rich and ancient history, Paphos is replete with historical and architectural monuments. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Most tourist complexes and entertainment venues are located in the Kato Paphos region (Lower Paphos). The surrounding area is occupied by grape and banana plantations. Another specificity of the region is the presence of two types of beaches here - sandy and rocky, which allows satisfying the needs of all sunbathers. In general, Paphos is ideal for those who like to combine cognitive relaxation and a high level of service.
Ayia Napa
Translated from Greek, the name of the city means "Sacred Forest." This is due to the legend that local fishermen in one of the caves found the icon of the Mother of God in the local forests. It was considered a good sign and people founded a settlement here. Over time, a small settlement grew and turned into a modern resort town with unique architecture and friendly hospitable population. Indeed, the beauty of Ayia Napa is simply breathtaking. Beautiful beaches, crystal clear sea, rocky cliffs and dense forests will delight any traveler who is lucky enough to get into these blessed lands. Ayia Napa has a developed water entertainment industry. For lovers of excursions and hiking tours are organized in the nearby mountains and forests. And connoisseurs of comfort can settle in one of the fashionable hotels located here or even rent a separate bungalow in a cottage town.
Protaras
Protaras is one of the youngest resorts in the country. The rapid development of the resort was in the 80s of the twentieth century. Since then, Protaras has been associated with a quiet family vacation in the lap of beautiful nature. The city is located in the southeastern part of the island of Cyprus, on the coast, intersected by rocky bays and magnificent sandy beaches. The most famous beach in the region is Fig Tree, which got its name from the fig trees that border it. Thanks to the gentle entrance to the sea, local beaches are ideal for a safe swim with young children. Near the coast there is a small picturesque island where excursions are held. All city beaches are well equipped and in perfect condition.
Ski resort Troodos
Created on the basis of a nature reserve, the Troodos ski resort is approximately two hours drive from Nicosia. Despite its young age (only about thirty years old), Troodos is a well-equipped ski resort, where both amateurs and professionals can train. This resort regularly becomes the venue for prestigious international competitions in skiing and snowboarding. Five ski slopes of varying degrees of difficulty have been laid in Troodos. You can get to them with the help of four special ski tows. The resort has rental points for sports equipment, as well as training courses for beginners.
Famagusta
In the past the best resort of Cyprus, today is located in the unrecognized Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Despite the tragic events of the recent past, Famagusta today attracts many tourists from all over the world. This is facilitated by lower prices in comparison with the resorts of Greek Cyprus. The city can offer its guests beautiful nature and a huge number of architectural masterpieces. Among them, one can note the magnificent Church of St. Nicholas, the Lal Mustafa Pasha Mosque, the ruins of the Church of St. George, the Venice Palace, the Othello Tower, etc. Those who wish to frolic in the open sea can go to the coast, where they can enjoy beautiful white beaches, ATVs, catamarans and boat trips on yachts.
