Also known as Petra tou Romiou, I found it nestled on the southern coast along the main road between Paphos and Limassol. Spanning approximately 1 square kilometre, it is historically revered as the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty!
I took the 25-minute drive from Paphos and found the site to be well-signposted, with a designated parking area (there was also the option of a direct bus service). When here I swam in the sea, relaxed on the scenic Petra tou Romiou beach, explored the nearby hiking trails along the dramatic coastline, and then dined at the laid-back beach café which overlooked the stunning rock.
- Location: Southwestern part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Spring and Fall (for moderate temperatures and quieter surroundings to enjoy the scenic views).
- Activities on offer: Swimming, photography, and hiking along the scenic coastline.
- Map Location and Directions
My favorite highlights…
- Learning about about the legend from the locals – they told me if you swim around rock three times it can bestow blessings such as eternal beauty, true love, fertility, and good fortune! Although in reality, I found that doing this was discouraged due to the strong currents!
- Also visiting the nearby interesting village of Kouklia where I found the ruins of the Sanctuary of Aphrodite, a unique open-air temple that was once central to ancient Cypriot religion.
12. Caledonia Falls
I was a big fan of this hidden gem! Here I discovered cascading waters that tumbled through a lush, forested landscape. I thought it had a soothing rejuvenating vibe and I really enjoyed just listening to the zen-like sounds of the water.
I found it tucked away in the Troodos Mountains near the village of Platres, in the heart of the Limassol district. Standing at 12 meters in height, it is one of the tallest waterfalls on the island, making it a popular destination, especially during the wetter months from late autumn through spring when the water flow is at its peak!
I drove to the village of Platres in the Troodos Mountains and made my way to the Psilo Dendro Trout Farm, where I parked and began the moderately challenging 3-kilometer hike along the well-marked Caledonia Trail, taking about an hour to reach the stunning waterfall.
There were some steep and uneven sections along the trail, but it was absolutely worth it; once I arrived, I enjoyed the refreshing mist and lush greenery, listened to the bird’s singing, and even waded into the cool, inviting waterfall pool!
- Location: Central part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Spring (for ideal hiking conditions and to see the waterfall at its most vibrant).
- Activities on offer: Hiking, wildlife spotting, and photography in the Troodos Mountains.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Seeing smooth-barked strawberry trees, rock roses, and black poplars along the hike!
13. Cape Greco
I thought this was a very enchanting headland! I also discovered it was a much loved spot filled with natural, striking beauty – I found luminous, turquoise waters, rugged imposing cliffs, surrounding greenery and a tranquil and adventurous vibe which I couldn’t get enough of!
Situated on the southeastern tip of the island between Ayia Napa and Protaras, it lies within the Famagusta District and spans around 385 hectares. Once a hideout for pirates along the Mediterranean coast, it is now a protected national forest park filled with a rich biodiversity, fascinating sea caves, and breathtaking sea views.
I took the well-marked 10-minute drive from Ayia Napa, explored the stunning sea caves by kayak, hiked the Aphrodite and Adonis trails for panoramic views, snorkelled in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, visited the charming Chapel of Agioi Anargyroi which had steps leading down to the sea, and ended the day by relaxing on the cliff tops, watching an Insta-worthy sunset.
- Location: Southeastern part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Spring and Summer (for scenic hikes, cliff diving, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area).
- Activities on offer: Cliff diving, hiking, cycling, and exploring sea caves.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Checking out the “Arch of Korakas” and then walking up the trail which lead me to the nearby Agioi Anargyroi Chapel, a charming whitewashed church perched above the sea – the views were incredible!
14. Akamas Peninsula National Park
I really liked this rugged and unspoilt protected nature reserve! I found it absolutely stunning, with its pristine golden sandy beaches where sea turtles nest, hidden pebble coves, shimmering blue-green waters, dramatic limestone gorges, rolling green hills, and fascinating historic sites, including charming old stone villages. I thought the raw, untamed vibe of the area, enhanced by its secluded location, made it feel truly special!
I discovered it tucked away in the northwest of the island, near the town of Polis and the village of Latchi. Spanning approximately 230 square kilometers, it stretches to the westernmost tip of the island along the rugged Mediterranean coastline. Once home to ancient Greek settlements and Byzantine chapels, it is now mostly uninhabited and serves as a protected wildlife sanctuary, boasting a fascinating range of flora and fauna.
I took a 45 minute drive from Paphos and I found there was an access point near Latchi (there was also one in Neo Chorio) and I hiked through the dramatic Avakas Gorge, took a boat trip to the stunning Blue Lagoon and visited the Baths of Aphrodite (where legend says the goddess bathed!).
I also managed to explore the rugged coastal trail which lead me to Cape Arnaoutis, relaxed on the turtle nesting grounds of Lara Beach.
- Location: Northwestern part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Spring and Fall (for wildlife viewing, hiking, and exploring the rugged landscapes without the summer heat).
- Activities on offer: Hiking, snorkelling, exploring nature trails, and turtle watching.
- Map Location and Directions
My favourite highlights…
- Hiking along the moderately challenging 7.5 kilometers circular Aphrodite Trail which took me 3.5 hours to complete – I saw panoramic views of the Bay of Polis and the Paphos Forest, the ruins of Pyrgos tis Rigainas (Queen’s Tower) and a striking 500-year-old oak tree.
15. Kalopanayiotis
This was such a unique little gem! I thought this pretty mountain village, which had only around 200 residents, was just gorgeous with traditional stone-built houses complete with wooden balconies, narrow cobbled streets, Byzantine chapels and monasteries.
It also had a very picturesque setting in the Troodos Mountains with surrounding lush valleys and thermal springs. I also couldn’t get enough of the tranquil vibe and the traditional Cypriot charm!
Nestled in the Troodos Mountains within the Nicosia District, it overlooks the scenic Setrachos River Valley and is renowned for its rich Byzantine heritage, natural sulfur springs, and charming traditional architecture.
I drove 1.5 hours from Nicosia via well-maintained mountain roads and then spent a unique weekend here. I explored the UNESCO-listed Agios Ioannis Lampadistis Monastery which had stunning frescoes, relaxed in the therapeutic sulfur springs, hiked scenic trails along the Setrachos River Valley, crossed the medieval Venetian bridge, and even enjoyed a rejuvenating spa experience at Casale Panayiotis while soaking in breathtaking mountain views (pictured above).
- Location: Central part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Spring (to enjoy the lush greenery and explore the traditional village in pleasant weather).
- Activities on offer: Spa visits, hiking, visiting monasteries, and exploring traditional Cypriot villages.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the unique 4-star Casale Panayiotis, I loved its historic former monastery setting and standout spa with a hydrotherapy pool, mud cabin, herbal steam room, quirky snow cabin, and chromotherapy suite!
- Trying the Mosaic Rasul Mud Chamber and applying the mineral rich Kalopanayiotis Mud experience at the Myrianthousa Mountain Spa Retreat.
