A relative newcomer to the island has enjoyed wandering off the beaten track. What did he find?
By Nofar Ronen
Most visitors associate Cyprus with its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts, but there’s so much more to the island. Having lived here for over 3.5 years, I’ve discovered hidden gems that many aren’t familiar with – most of which are out of reach of public transportation. Here are some of my favourites so far
Adonis Baths, Paphos
A 30-minute drive along an unpaved road leads to a hidden, magical spot: two natural pools fed by waterfalls. Although accessible to all types of vehicles, the road is gravelly and requires careful navigation.
The water is refreshingly cold, so brace yourself for a brisk dip. To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit on weekday mornings, as weekends and afternoons can get busy. There’s also a small museum on-site (not particularly exciting) and a food stall serving sandwiches, coffee, and more.
Olive Farm, Lefkara
An olive farm might not sound like a must-visit destination, but when you see photos of this one, you’ll understand why it’s worth the trip. The Terra Oliva Organic Olive Farm is just a two-minute drive from Lefkara Village, a delightful spot in its own right.
The farm offers a range of olive-based products, including spreads, oils, desserts and, of course, olives. Visitors can sample these products and purchase their favourites. What truly sets this place apart, however, is the stunning view from outside the shop. Sitting there, savouring the farm’s offerings against such a backdrop is a unique experience.
The farm’s owner is exceptionally welcoming, engaging with every visitor and sharing stories about the farm and its products. There’s also an ancient olive tree and a bridge offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Cave Church, Protaras
A short drive from central Protaras brings you to Ayioi Saranta Cave Church, a small, simple church nestled inside a cave. While the church itself is modest, its location is absolutely beautiful.
Outside the church, a bench perched on a hillside provides stunning views of the surrounding area. This spot is perfect for families; our daughters loved exploring the cave and wandering around the area.
Aphrodite Trail in Akamas
Among the most beautiful natural attractions in Cyprus is the Akamas in the island’s western region. The reserve offers a variety of hiking trails, and we chose the Aphrodite Trail. This moderately challenging route climbs a hill and culminates in a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the sea and the city of Paphos.
On our way back, we extended the hike slightly to pass by the Blue Lagoon, one of Cyprus’ most stunning spots. Visitors can also explore the lagoon via jeep tours or boat trips. This destination is ideal for nature lovers of all ages and offers hiking options suitable for the entire family.
Venetian Bridges, Paphos forest
Hidden deep within Paphos forest are the Venetian bridges, relics of Cyprus’ historical connection to Venetian rule. The most famous of these is Tzelefos Bridge, a stone bridge spanning a serene river surrounded by lush greenery.
You can explore the area on foot or by car, enjoying easy trails and picturesque scenery. This is one of my favourite spots for a short nature outing, and it’s a great year-round destination.
Tochni Village, Larnaca
Tochni village, a 25-minute drive from Limassol, is one of the most surprising places I’ve discovered in Cyprus. The architecture, characterised by earthy tones with hints of blue, evokes the medieval era and is unlike anything else I’ve seen on the island.
The village’s narrow lanes and open landscapes create a serene atmosphere. Don’t miss dining at Tochni Taverna, which offers delicious Cypriot cuisine and breathtaking views, or the cosy Nostos Taverna for a taste of homemade local dishes.
Tochni is conveniently close to the picturesque fishing village of Zygi and the quaint village of Kalavasos, making it easy to visit all three in one trip.
White stones near Zygi
Close to Zygi Village lies a stunning spot known as the White stones, featuring white cliffs and small coves perfect for a relaxing evening. On warm days, you can even take a dip in the water.
Nearby, you’ll find Ayios Georgios Alamanou Fish Tavern, a fantastic restaurant with a diverse menu and activities for kids, but it is closed for two months during winter.
Prastio Waterfall
If you visit Limassol during the rainier months, make sure to stop by Prastio Waterfall. While the waterfall itself isn’t particularly large, the surrounding area is lovely and worth exploring.
When the waterfall is flowing, food trucks selling sandwiches and ice cream often set up nearby, adding to the charm.
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