Explore the Akamas Peninsula
The Akamas National Park lies on the west coast of Cyprus, a truly pictorial part of the island. It has an area coverage of 230 square kilometres containing valleys, gorges and wide sandy bays. The wildlife diversity is crucial for the ecology in the Mediterranean. In this spectacular environment there are 168 varieties of birds, 20 different reptiles, 16 species of butterfly and 12 different mammals not to mention its very rich variety of fauna. The important significance of the Akamas Peninsula has been duly noted; The European Council has included it in its Mediterranean Protection Programme. The Cyprus Government has yet to fully declare it as a National Park for tourist and local landowners reasons, although friends of the Earth and Green Peace are lobbying hard for it.
– The last coastal area in Cyprus to remain untouched by development.
– A perfect haven for wildlife and flora.
– A MUST for any keen walker or mountain biker.
Boat along the Akamas ( Blue Lagoon )
Blue lagoon is the most popular place of Akamas and thousands of people have visited it by boat. The crystal blue waters in this small bay are so clear, you can see all the way to the underlying sea bed. The water in this area of the Akamas Peninsula is so inviting and refreshing you will want to swim in this beautiful environment or go snorkeling and look around you underwater for metres on end.
– Choose an organized trip with a BBQ lunch cooked on board – book at the harbor.
– Or hire a private speed boat – it’s good value for a small group.
– Don’t forget your swimming costume for that dip in the blue lagoon!
– Tip: Local residents receive a discount – just ask at Latchi harbor when you book.
Wine Route 1 ( Laona Akamas )
ROUTE: Pafos, Mesogi, Tsada, Stroumbi, Kathikas, Akourdaleia, Pano Arodes,Kato Arodes, Ineia, Drouseia, Polis, Pegeia.
This route is in the north – western part of Cyprus. It is of unique interest, as it is not devoted exclusively to wine. In this area, the wine lover and the gourmet can visit four wineries and taste their varied and individualistic wines, in combination with the tasty specialties of Cypriot food. Tavernas, of which there are plenty along the route, will be sure not to disappoint. Together with these delicious attractions, the visitor may enjoy a unique geography, unlike anywhere else on the island. Travel along the main roads E701 and E709, which climb to elevations providing some fascinating views, with various greenery, substantial expanses of forest and a liberal lacing of vineyards combining to attract our attention. The outstanding feature of this unique wine zone is the Akamas peninsula. The diverse characteristics of the Akamas morphology, the flora and the wildlife rightfully make it a rare habitat. The visiting explorer/wine – lover truthfully has a feast for the eye, the ears, and the taste – buds.
Go on an adventure to Cedar Valley & Stavros Tis Psokas in Paphos forest
The area is located in the northwest part of the Troodos mountain region. Its boundaries overlap with the boundaries of the Main Forest of Paphos, which represent 96% of the site. It covers a large area from sea level up to the peak of Tripylos at 1,352 metres. This particular area is the most important area of Cyprus for nesting raptors. It supports the highest number of breeding Bonelli’s eagles and Goshawks.
Cedar Valley: A must for nature lovers, Cedar Valley in Tilliryan Troodos is a thing of beauty. However, the cedars in this secluded valley are no ordinary trees, but the indigenous Cyprus cedar – Cedrus brevifolia, a close relative of the famous cedars of Lebanon, and which number in the thousands here. Stavros tis Psokas (Cyprus Mouflon): this area contains the Cypriot mouflon (a wild sheep, Ovis musimon, inhabiting the mountainous regions of Sardinia and Corsica, the male of which has large curving horns considered native and unique to Cyprus). This breed of animal was almost extinct during the 20th century, yet the moufflon is now healthily populated within the Paphos Forest, Cedar Valley, and particularly the Tripylos area. Near the Stavros tis Psokas Forest Station, there’s a Moufflon enclosure near which will be featured in an upcoming blog post.
– A new tarmac road now takes the pain out of getting there (via Panagia).
– Make sure you walk up to Tripylos from the picnic site in Cedar valley – the views from 1362m are spectacular.
– Stop at a monastery to sample the “home brew” (wine!) on the way back – Chrysorrogiatissa or Ayia Moni.
– And stop in Panagia to see where Archbishop Makarios was born.
Polis Town
Located within a rich fertile plain in the foothills of the Troodos mountains, the small town of Polis, which in Greek simply means ‘town’, overlooks the beautiful bay, with its warm, clear and safe seas. With its quaint sandstone buildings around a pedestrianized town centre with its restaurants, bars and souvenir shops, it is a delightful place to hang out on a summer evening. Don’t miss the Church of Agios Andronikos near the town square, with its 16th century wall paintings, which for 400 years served as a mosque and today stands as a monument. The 18th century church of Agia Kyriaki is also interesting or the open – air naïve sculptural exhibition. The small church of Agios Nikolaos in the pedestrian precinct is also used for Catholic masses. A small eucalyptus wood lies between the town and the sea, providing shade for a camping site by the beach. Polis is a 45 minute drive from Pafos airport and just over two hours from Nicosia.
Drive up to Pomos & Pachyammos villages (Saint Rafael Church)
The areas near the small villages of Pomos and Pachyammos are majestically beautiful and the mountains lead straight into the sea. Pomos village, hanging on the cliffs of west coast Cyprus, lies about 20 km afar from Polis Chrysochous, on the way to Akamas nature reserve. It is a laid back village very peaceful and quiet. It is ideal for those wanting to live the authentic Cyprus way of life, away from the hassle and bustle of tourist’s resorts. This tranquil and calm area prides itself with amazing views of the coastline and sandy beaches, making it the ideal place for rest and relaxation.
Pomos is one of the remaining unspoiled and undisturbed areas of Paphos. An ideal location to get away from it all. The main point of interest is the impressive church of Agios Rafael in Pachyammos village, an important pilgrimage site for the faithful due to the belief in the miraculous curing powers of the saint. Pachyammos Village Beach is an idyllic refuge for those seeking a remote and private stretch of bay to enjoy their day in tranquility.
Visit Latchi Harbour
– Take a stroll along the marina
– Sample some freshly caught fish in one of the tavernas.
Water Sports
– Scuba diving in the clear waters along the Akamas.
– Water ski behind a jet boat.
– Maybe sea – kayaking or even paragliding?
– All these watersports can be found down in Latchi.
Stunning Sunset & Sunrise
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