Cyprus Guide
The Country
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean and stretches 150 miles (240 km) from the west coast to the most eastern tip and 60 miles (96 km) from north to south. The Troodos Mountains situated south of the island and the Kyrenia Range in the north act as dramatic backcloths to the central Mesaoria plain. Cyprus is a land of contrasts from the fertile central plain, vineyards at the foothills of the mountains and mile after mile of sandy shores with secluded beaches.
There are many villages to explore each with its own tradition, agriculture, lace making, pottery, hand weaving and wine making which is within the delightful area of Omodus. Village life is at a much slower pace, an opportunity to experience the true Cyprus compared to the coastal resorts on the island.
There are six major towns, Nicosia, the capital situated inland and 5 coastal towns, Limassol, Larnaka, Pafos plus Kyrenia and Famagusta which have been under Turkish occupation since 1974. The towns of Cyprus present a modern cosmopolitan atmosphere, imposing colonial and classic buildings and ancient monuments blending with the well designed contemporary hotels and modern shopping areas.
Touring in Cyprus is a real pleasure; the roads are excellent and clearly signed.
The Seasons
Each of the four seasons never fails to delight the visitors.
In springtime the island is ablaze of colour from wild flowers, bright poppies, yellow daises, anemonies - the air filled with the heady scent of orange blossom. Peonies appear on the mountains whilst prickly broom and rock roses decorate the hillsides making Cyprus a paradise for nature lovers with 1500 different species of flowers.
The summer months with high temperatures guarantees plenty of sunshine and provides the perfect conditions for a great holiday. Sandy beaches and the clear turquoise waters beckon swimmers and all water sports enthusiasts. For a complete contrast, the pine covered Troodos Mountains offer a cool retreat.
The autumn mellows into barmy days with a slight chill on some evenings. However, the sea temperature is still high after the long hot summer and is known to be the best time of year for swimming in The Mediterranean. October/November is a time of beauty, a change of colour takes place to the foliage and with the glorious sun sets it’s a season not to be missed.
The Cyprus winter, January to March is short and mild with an average daytime temperature of around 16C. You can expect some bright and sunny days; however, this is the season when much needed rain falls.
The People
The people of Cyprus are traditionally warm and welcoming and consider a visit to their island as a compliment and show their pleasure with genuine hospitality. Shops, restaurants or where ever you may be, the Greek word ‘Philoxenia’ sums it up beautifully: ‘Friendship towards the guest.’
Their language is Greek but English is spoken just about everywhere.
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