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Protaras Information
Less than 10 miles from Ayia Napa, Protaras is a modern resort
stretching 4 miles in both directions along a scenic coastline.
Less developed than its more boisterous neighbour, Ayia Napa, this
relaxed resort appeals to families, couples and singles attracted
by its stunning, fine sandy beaches. Fig Tree Bay is constantly
rated as one of the best beach spots in Cyprus if not the
Mediterranean as a whole. There are plenty of sun beds and
parasols and a wide range of water sports for all ages. The
charming church of Ayios Elias overlooks the resort and is
illuminated at night, whilst windmills dot the surrounding rural
landscape. A few miles away is the white washed town of Paralimni,
which is now the administrative centre for this district. During
the day, there are regular buses and it's worth a visit to the
local shops and supermarkets. There is a wide selection of
restaurants and bars in the area of Fig Tree Bay, and further
north, the Pernera beach area is developing into a quiet resort in
its own right. Pubs, some lively bars and a couple of discos make
up the main nightlife, but for a wilder time, you need to head for
Ayia Napa!
Paphos Information
Located on the Southwest corner of the island, Paphos is a
charming ancient town actually split into two areas. Kato Paphos
and the old town itself. Kato Paphos is the area around the
original old fishing port, which has been developed into an
attractive harbourside area with numerous outdoor cafes and
restaurants. Bordered by the old Venetian Fort and surrounded by
archaeological sites, this is the main tourist centre where many
hotels have establishes themselves. The main shopping area has
everything from tourist craft shops to larger stores even
including Marks & Spencer! The Old Town or Kima as the locals call
it, is full of narrow winding streets, and well worth exploring on
foot, as there are many quaint shops and a lively market. Paphos
has 3 Blue Flag award sandy beaches to the north and south of the
harbour area; the largest is at Coral Bay, which can be reached by
local bus during daylight hours. A wide range of water sports
including diving trips are available. At night, Paphos comes alive
with innumerable bars, tavernas, English pubs and Bouzouki bars
for that authentic experience. There are plentiful restaurants
ranging from fast food to outdoor fish restaurants dotted around
the harbourside.
Ayia Napa Information
30 years ago, Ayia Napa was a quiet fishing village on the east
coast of Cyprus with a picturesque harbour and a handful of
whitewashed houses. Its scenic coastline, white sandy beaches and
calm blue waters were then discovered, and it is now a thriving,
sometimes noisy resort extending 3 miles in either direction.
During the day the centre is relatively quiet as everyone heads to
the main beach where there are an abundance of water sports and
boat trips from the harbour. Nissi beach 1.5 miles to the west is
a quieter spot, or you can follow the coastline down to Cape
Greco, known for its rugged scenery and secluded coves. It's a
diver's paradise, especially for ship -wreck diving! In the summer
months, Ayia Napa is a holiday hotspot for young singles and
couples who are drawn to the legendary nightlife. This is serious
clubbers territory and the fountain in the town square is the
central meeting place. With plentiful bars, clubs, tavernas and
eating outlets all packed into the area between the square and the
harbour, night time is lively and for the late night owls. Outside
of the peak summer months, Ayia Napa appeals to families. Public
transport is limited to an hourly bus service into Larnaca
approximately 25 miles away or to the resort of Protaras, 4 miles
distant.
Coral Bay Information
The tiny resort of Coral Bay is located approximately 7 miles
north of Paphos itself and it is really its large sandy beach that
is behind its development into a resort in its own right. Having
shallow, clear waters a number of hotels and Apartment complexes
have sprung up in and around the main bay, and with them a
selection of shops and tavernas. Coral Bay is a quieter resort,
suitable for a more relaxing holiday and although there are
numerous hotels along the main 'Tomb of the Kings' road into
Paphos, most of the nightlife is centred in Paphos itself. There
is a bus service during daylight hours, but plentiful taxis are
always available. North of Coral Bay , the landscape becomes more
rugged especially towards the Akamas Peninsula which has been
designated a protected area due to its abundance of wild rare
birds and flora & fauna. |
