There are many things that make Cyprus holidays quite remarkable and it's not just the Cyprus weather! This small Mediterranean island may be very European in its outlook, but it’s actually just a stone throw from Turkey and Syria so there is also more than a hint of eastern promise. When you are in the tourist centres like Ayia Napa and Pafos which are popular Cyrpus holidays destinations, then empty beaches or sleepy mountain villages may seem a million miles away; but they aren’t. The glorious Troodos Mountains are only around an hour from Paphos or Aiya Napa; they are best explored by car but can be reached on limited bus services. The Troodos Mountains are a perfect place to get away from the hustle bustle for walking, cycling or exploring the medieval monasteries. If you want to enjoy alone time on the beach then think about heading north to the Karpas Peninsula. The peninsula is sometimes described as the panhandle, stretching as it does from the harbour town of Kyrenia out to see, pointing towards Asia.

There isn’t really a bad time for a Cyprus holiday; the high season runs from June to September when the scorching Cyprus weather means long sunny days with little chance of rain. Don’t be afraid to come in the off season though, when temperatures remain kind and there is plenty going on. In the guide you will find information on festivals like the Afamia Grape Festival and the Palouze festival which come at the end of the wine harvest in September and October. The Limassol carnival is ten days of revelry before lent (normally late February or March) making an early start to the year an equally appealing prospect. In winter Cyprus is the only place (that I know of) when you can be on the ski slopes in the morning and sunbathing at the beach in the afternoon!

Cyprus is an island with a fascinating history as well as a remarkable natural beauty. If you are ready to explore a little deeper you will find crusader castles, hill top monasteries, roman baths and Orthello’s tower. Consider crossing the UN patrolled border to make a trip into northern Cyprus. Day trips with English speaking guides run to the ‘ghost town’ of Famagusta from Paphos and there are more comprehensive day trips from both Paphos and Limmasol that take in Nicosia and Kyrenia.
 

Area: 9,250 sq km (3,572 sq miles)

Population: 754,064

Capital city: Nicosia (Lefkosia/Lefkosa) (population: 195,000)

People: Greek Cypriot (78%), Turkish Cypriot (18%), Maronites, Latins (4%)

Languages: Greek, Turkish, English

Religions: Greek Orthodox (78%), Muslim (18%), Maronite, Armenian Apostolic, and other (4%)

Currency: Euro (Turkish Lira in the northern part of Cyprus)