Introduction to Cyprus
An ancient island of myths and sun. A mysterious birthplace of Aphrodite – a famous Greek goddess symbolising eternal youth, love, wellbeing and fertility. A long coastline, deep silence, folk music, citrus fruit and olive groves. Cats running on house roofs, strong and sweet aroma of coffee. Cyprus – one island where two worlds meet, so different and still so similar. A place where every yogi can relax.
Cyprus is located in the east of the Mediterranean Sea. Most of the year the island is warm and sunny, however ski lovers would also find good conditions for winter sports in Troodos mountains.
In the high season the country is visited by many tourists coming over from all corners of the world to admire the real Cypriot culture blend and breathtaking views of nature. The main tourist regions of Greek Cyprus include: Pafos, Limassol, Larnaca, Nicosia and Troodos. In the low season the untroubled peace and silence prevails here. It is when residents of the island come back to their normal life routine and habits. They celebrate every single day by enjoying simple things like a cup of strong fresh coffee or the omnipresent sun. The island has more to offer for yoga holidays than one could imagine. Cyprus continues to entice and inspire an atmosphere of healthy living and a sense of absolute wellness thanks to the combo of different factors such as sun, Mediterranean charm, healthy cuisine and great variety of spas and wellness centres.
Varied palette of nature
Cyprus is blessed with the beauty of nature’s best palette, including the scenery of glittering coasts, rolling mountains and fragrant forests.Wandering from warm seashores of the mainland to the unspoiled and cool oasis of the Troodos mountain range, nature lovers will rejoice in meeting living creatures and discovering rare plants among countless waterfalls, coves, woodland, winding trails and secluded sandy beaches. The country is situated on the crossroads of three continents and hence became a bird watcher’s paradise with the prime example of flamingo flocks visiting salt lakes. Going deeper into the Paphos Forest you might also meet the national animal – the Mouflon which roams happily in this peaceful part of the island.
Troodos mountains
Greek Cyprus’ nature is undoubtedly one of its biggest advantages. Long and beautiful coastline is interspersed with either narrow or wide, sandy or rocky beaches – whatever you prefer. One fourth of the island is covered by rather short Troodos mountains, with the highest peak of Mount Olympus reaching 2000 m above the sea level, but high enough for trekking or even winter skiing. Kilometres of olive plantations and citrus forests – these are only a few of countless natural benefits the country has to offer. The fauna and flora of this island bathed by the ceaseless sunlight can definitely be admired all days long. And days are long here.
Troodos are volcanic hills dotted with monumental Byzantine churches, small villages, waterfalls and many others. It’s a great spot for trekking and relaxation in the virgin nature. With pine-scented air which invigorates everybody the higher they climb, the mountain range is considered to be the island’s “green heart” and an oasis immersed in unforgettable pictures of forests, valleys and orchards. An abundance of natural wealth waits for your exploration by foot or bicycle. Part of the mountains is overgrown with Paphos Forest with its hidden original Cedar Valley. There are about 130 thousands of cedar trees growing there, which are unique species on the world scale. Amongst Troodos peaks local people lead a completely different lifestyle, a bit slower and more synchronized with the natural rhythm of the day. Villagers eagerly welcome visitors to observe their special local customs.
Quite important religious heritage sites of Cyprus are sacred places, with distinctive richly decorated frescoes, fascinating stories of saints and unique architecture showcase. No wonder why many people call this country an “island of churches” – their number is countless. Majority of them are hidden in secluded corners of the Troodos mountains. There are ten highland, stunning, UNESCO listed Byzantine churches listed in that area, which are nestled within the greenery of the mountains. They were built and painted between the 11th and 16th centuries and made from ‘unfinished’ local stone. Just to name a few of them: Kykkos (the wealthiest and most lavish on the island), Panagia Phorviotissa, Panagia tou Moutoulla and the famous monastery Agios Ionannis Lambadistis. The last one is known for its beautiful location and a traditional style it was built in. The monastery was created by combining three previously built little 11th century churches and is dedicated to a young monk John Lampadistis buried on the grounds.
Troodos region is also famous for winemaking communities which have practiced viticulture for centuries. Some others are known for their intricate handmade folk-art, from lace and silverwork to pottery and basket weaving.
Akamas Peninsula
A very pretty and peaceful area known as “Polis” has grown to become a sub-district in its own right, and encompasses one of the most prominent places on the Cypriot’s map.
The place of utmost interest and a special value is the Akamas Peninsula National Park located in the north west coast of Cyprus. It is an area abundant with impressive wildlife, rocky gorges and mesmerizing beaches. Its distinctive feature is the wide variety of fauna including 168 bird species, 20 types of reptiles and 16 different kinds of butterflies. One of the most significant attractions is Lara Beach, famous for being a turtle’s paradise. It is an extensive strand, distant from the crowded world where baby turtles are hatched every autumn. An oasis of tranquility and a great spot for lonely meditation. Another popular place is the Blue Lagoon where you can enjoy the crystal blue water in a bay which is so clear that you can easily see all the way to the underlying sea bed. The bay allows tourists to connect with the powerful aquamarine life and float on its relaxing waters. Akamas nature trails are known for breathtaking beauty and precious ecology. There are 3 main trails called Adonis, Aphrodite and Smigies. They are perfect for hiking and offer mesmerizing views of various sized gorges and valleys, outstanding rock formations, the curved coastline, cliffs, and intriguingly shaped boulders. The famous place of the peninsula is Baths of Aphrodite. The natural cavern features a caved shallow pool encompassed by large ferns and a fig tree which creates pleasant cooling shade. A natural spring supplies the water to the pool. According to myth, Aphrodite would bathe in this pool and met her great love Adonis. Baths are said to hold special rejuvenating powers.
Paphos and surroundings
Paphos
The ancient world is an integral part of Cyprus’ national heritage. Wherever you go, you will stumble on archaeological excavations and monuments thousands of years old. Many of them are very well preserved and maintained, although you will see a stopped trace of time in some of them. The Paphos region comprises old and new towns, rural villages and picturesque resorts. It is a home to some astonishing areas of natural beauty and its numerous archaeological sites are historically priceless, including the famous Katos Pafos declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city of Paphos can boast spectacular kings’ catacombs. They are dated back to the hellenistic period and comprise about a hundred of underground royal tombs which have been recognized by UNESCO. Paphos offers its visitors a very pleasant long footpath alongside the coast, which attracts many runners or walk lovers. You can find some nice stops with benches and sit in silence to admire the surrounding sea and listen to its healing sounds. Few deep breaths and you are set for the rest of the day. The city has got a nice seafront promenade with cafes and restaurants which can get a bit busy in the summertime. If you prefer a quieter place to eat out you might want to go to the crescent-shaped Coral Bay. It’s famous for the shipwreck situated at the seashore which became an iconic picture on many postcards. The bay offers clear swimming waters, boat rentals and many other tourist amenities, including good quality restaurants for most demanding eaters.
Petra tou Romiou
Regarded as the Aphrodite’s mythical birthplace, “Petra tou Romiou” is a spellbinding geological rock formation along one of the most beautiful coastlines on the island – the southwest coast of the Paphos district. According to the legend, the Ancient Greek Goddess of Love and Beauty was born of the sea foam here. Legend tells that she rose from the waves and was escorted on a shell to this particular beach. It is commonly believed that in certain weather conditions, the waves rise, break and form a column of water that dissolves into a pillar of foam. With imagination, this momentarily looks like an ephemeral, evanescent human shape. Other popular myths tell that swimming around the rock three times will bring various blessings, including eternal youth and beauty, good luck, fertility and true love. The place is popular with tourists who like walking and admiring nature from close-by.
Limassol and surroundings
Limassol
Limassol (Lemesos) region is characterised by legends of kings and roots of the country’s wine making industry. It links both the ancient and modern worlds together. Limassol is said to be the region of wine, celebrations and ancient realms. The main city is situated between two important archaeological sites – Amathus in the east and Kourion to the west. It is the second largest city of Cyprus after Nicosia, the home of the country’s main sea port and a very popular holiday destination. The majority of its coastal shore is filled with restaurants, cafes, shops and other tourist attractions.
Wetlands and Salt Lakes
In search of another Cypriot inspiration it is worth paying a visit to the Akrotiri Salt Lake. It is a popular wetland and the only lake of this kind where you can observe numerous kinds of birds, including flamingoes. It’s definitely a good spot for birdwatchers or people who’d like to stay connected with this unusual environment and escape from crowds. The environmental importance of this salt lake has been showcased at the Akrotiri Environmental Centre.
Also, Germasogeia Dam is a peaceful place to relax, take a stroll, or enjoy a spot of angling.
Ancient Kourion
You should get a chance to visit authentic ruins of the ancient world in Kurion as well. Tracks of the first settlement are dated back to the 12th century BC. Ruins are scattered across three parts: the antic city, the 2nd century stadium and the famous amphitheatre with the magnificent view of the Mediterranean Sea. There are many musicals and arts played in Kurion nowadays, which take the audience back in time to the ancient era and let them wander the streets of this special city with their eyes of imagination. Cultural events help Kurion to thrive and attract tourists from around the world. Kurion is a place where you can walk for hours and get lost in your thoughts.
The Limassol region encompasses sun-exposed slopes of the Troodos mountains, with many vineyards forming a green backdrop to the city. The hillside villages are known as the “Krassochoria” (or wine villages), and maintained their oldest traditions of viticulture alive, allowing them to produce the island’s best wines. One of the oldest named wines in the world – the sweet dessert wine of Commandaria, comes exactly from this region. Tourists can find a quiet rural retreat in this part of the country where hiking and cycling can be enjoyed in the unspoilt countryside.
Larnaca and surroundings
Larnaca
Larnaca is the oldest area of the island and the longest regularly inhabited region which history dates back 4000 years bc. It is genuinely authentic with extremely rich ancient culture but also a thriving and modern European city. It can be easily accessed by air or sea, centrally located is well connected with other regions of the country. A distinctive feature of the city is that there is no clear division between resort and town and it’s very diverse in terms of the coastline, housing or monuments. It nicely blends two different characters of the place. Most frequently visited place of the city is Foinikoudes, a pleasant seafront promenade with palm trees, restaurants and other forms of entertainment. For walking lovers we recommend the sea walkway of Piale Pasha which leads through unique neighbourhoods and fish taverns. The landmark of Larnaca is the cathedral church of Saint Lazarus – the town’s patron saint.
Larnaca Salt Lake
A truly spectacular and relaxing spot on Larnaca’s map is the Salt Lake with plenty of flamingos gathering here every year. In fact it’s a network of four lakes of different sizes. They form the second largest salt lake in Cyprus after the Limassol Salt Lake. It’s one of the most important wetlands in Cyprus. The natural complex is surrounded by the scrubland and crowned by the Hala Sultan Tekke which is one of the holiest shrines of Ottoman Islam. The lake offers a great opportunity for a relaxing walk or bird watching with over 85 species of birds including flamingos which choose to spend their winter months in this important migratory passage through the country. Larnaca is truly a great place to enjoy eventful but also peaceful yoga holidays.
Nicosia
Two nations, one city
The turbulent history of Cyprus cannot be forgotten if you are planning to visit it. The island has been heavily influenced by Greek, Roman and Byzantine cultures for over two thousand years. Since the 16th century, when the Turkish army has reached the country’s coast, both Greek and Turkish people have been residing together. They live next to each other in spite of many differences: religious, cultural or customary. The Greek part of Cyprus is more developed, modern and European than Turkish one.
The prime example of that visible division is Nicosia (Lefkosia) – the capital of the country. Truly cosmopolitan and charismatic city with the unique character combining ancient world with modern and fast-paced metropolis. It has become a centre of the country’s most important business and commercial activities. There are not enough words to describe the special feel of the city which magnificently connects current with the traditional. It will provide you with a good retail experience, leisure and nightlife adventures, cultural and historic trips and delicious culinary delights. Within a couple of minutes you can travel back in time and visit the medieval era with spectacular monuments such as the Venetian fortifications and bastions. As soon as you leave the city you will encounter a blissful rural region with quiet countryside and scattered mountain villages where you can go for pleasant hiking or cycling.
Cyprus for yogis
Cyprus is also a paradise for enthusiasts of water sports. Windsurfing, kitesurfing or snorkelling can be a great addition to every yoga retreat holiday. The positively surprising windfall for diving lovers will be the opportunity to see the underwater shipwrecks situated near the island’s shores.
Cyprus is a unique place where diverse cultures and landscapes are combined together. There are many sites slightly remote from the civilisation, with only a handful of tourists present in the high season. You can really breathe in some fresh sea air and concentrate on your inner part in the surroundings of this splendid majestic nature. A meditation, mindfulness, silent walks, in conjunction with the Cypriot-Greek peace and daily celebration of life, will become an unusual and unforgettable yoga experience.
With its enticing combination of year round sunshine, picture-perfect surroundings, and an environment conducive to healthy eating and leisure pursuits, the island has all elements in place to bring a true sense of balance and harmony. You can easily choose between pools, saunas, treatment packages including aromatherapy, thalassotherapy, shiatsu, massages and other natural therapies and beauty treatments. And all of that to help you detoxify and revitalise your mind and body.
Practical information
You can easily get to the Greek part of Cyprus by ferry or plane. The main airport is located in Larnaca. Crossing the border between south (Greek) and north (Turkish) Cyprus goes very smoothly and fast. The only border crossing point for pedestrians can be found in Nicosia and all you need to do is to show the valid passport.
The Greek part of Cyprus belongs to European Union. You will find no difficulties in communicating in English with local people. Greeks are very open-minded, helpful and friendly and any tourist can feel safe in this country. The valid currency is Euro, which can be easily bought or sold in many currency exchange bureaus.