Apart from the variety of outdoor pursuits and sports already mentioned, there is even more entertainment available on Cyprus. A trip to Paphos, Limmassol or Larnaca will reveal all the normal entertainment available at most tourist resorts across the world, ranging from Ten pin bowling, to quad bike racing.
In addition Cyprus has two waterparks, numerous restaurants, tavernas, and bars. Numerous historic archaeological sites to visit, greek mythology sites, outdoor musical concerts, festivals, nature parks, trails and of course shopping.
2006 Festivals and events
Waterparks
There a number of large waterparks, one in Paphos approx 10 min drive, another two outside Limmassol wet'n'wild & Fasouri approx 20 min drive. There are the normal range of flumes, waterslides, rafts etc. Prices are approx £14 for adults and £7 for children for all day and this often includes a free BBQ.
Restaurants
Paphos has so many good restaurants, tavernas and bars it is impossible to give them justice here. Suffice to say whatever your taste in food, it is available. Paphos is the centre for tourists, so it is very lively and prices although not extortionate by UK standards, are higher than if you eat outside of the tourist area.
If you prefer more traditional Cypriot food and ambience there are the two tavernas in the village, and numerous village and beach taverns out and about. Make the effort to drive away from the tourist areas and just stop off at a remote taverna, you won’t be disappointed. A tip, if the menu has pictures on it, it won’t be worth eating at.
Historical and Mythological sites
In Greek mythology Cyprus is considered the birthplace of Aphrodite the goddess of love. She rose from the sea at Petra Tou Romiou, or Aphrodite’s rocks. Legend has it, that if you swim 3 times around Aphrodite’s rock you will live to a hundred. Petra Tou Romiou is approx 7km from Mandria. Nearer to Polis next to Akamas peninsular approx 45 mins from Mandria are the Aphrodite baths. According to legend the Goddess Aphrodite used to take her beauty baths in the pool of this natural grotto, shaded by a fig tree.
Cyprus has a rich history, with the country being a gateway between East and West it has been invaded many times over the years, and each invader has left their mark on the island. In Paphos there are the Tombs of the Kings, dating back to the 4th century BC, these impressive rock-cut underground tombs are worth exploring. Carved steps lead down to the burial chambers some of which are decorated with Doric pillars.Also in Paphos are the mosaics. There is the House of Dionysos, House of Theseus, House of Aion and House of Orpheus. These mosaic floors found in villas of Roman aristocrats and noblemen of 3rd and 5th century AD are considered among the finest in the Eastern Mediterranean. They mostly depict scenes of Greek mythology.
There is a 2nd Century Odeon built entirely of limestone blocks. It is now used in the summer for musical and theatrical performances. Nearby are the remains of the ancient city walls, the Roman Agora and a building dedicated to Asklipeios, father of medicine.
In Paphos harbour there is the Paphos medieval fort. Originally a Byzantine fort built to protect the harbour, it was rebuilt by the Lusignans in the 13th century, dismantled by the Venetians in 1570, and rebuilt by the Ottomans after they captured the island in the 16th century.
Sanctuary of Aphrodite in Kouklia village, 10 mins from Mandria. Once the ancient City-kingdom of Cyprus, old Paphos was one of the most celebrated of pilgrimage centres of the ancient Greek world. The famous sanctuary of Aphrodite, the most ancient remains of which date back to 12th century BC was found here. The museum housed in Lusignan manor, contains many interesting finds from the glorious days of the sanctuary which lasted till the 3rd-4th century AD.
Polis tis Chrysochou lies where once stood the ancient City-kingdom of Marion, an important commercial centre in classical and Hellenistic times. Some beautiful houses, dating to the beginning of this century can still be seen there. Its excellent climate and beautiful beaches and scenery, have made the area a popular resort.
Ayios Neophytos Monastery near Tala was founded at the end of the 12th century by the Cypriot hermit and writer Neophytos. The Engleistra, an enclosure carved out of the mountain by the hermit, contains some of the finest Byzantine frescoes dating from 12th to the 15th century. In the monastery’s church there is an interesting collection of icons and remains from 16th century frescoes.
The Roman amphitheatre ‘Kourion’ is located just outside of Episkopi village, approx 20mins from Mandria. This Amphitheatre has magnificent views across the Mediterranean sea, and during the summer months concerts and plays are often performed here. Close by are other archaeological sites of interest.
Nearer to Limassol is Kolossi castle, home to Richard the Lionheart and the crusaders. A very fine example of military architecture, originally constructed in the 13th century and subsequently rebuilt in its present form in the middle of the 15th century. After the fall of Acre in 1291, it served the guard of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem. In the 14th century it came for a time under the domain of the Knights Templar.
Entrance fees to most archaeological sites or museums ranges from 50c to £1.
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