Today, Cyprus is best known as the land of sun, sea and incredible views. It also has a rich history, having been inhabited since prehistoric times.
Today, Cyprus is best known as the land of sun, sea and incredible views. It also has a rich history, having been inhabited since prehistoric times. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus is home to archaeological wonders such as Kato Paphos, the Paphos castle and the Tomb of the Kings! Combined with its famous wine and beautiful beaches, Cyprus really is the place to be.
Cyprus has been making wine since 2000 BC and is now considered one of the oldest wine production places in the world! Commandaria, the famous dessert Cypriot wine, is one of the oldest in Earth’s history. Commandaria is sweet and amber coloured and tastes perfect when paired with a chocolatey dessert (yum!)
Many of the vineyards and wineries in Cyprus are run by generations of families. Wine has become the backbone of people’s livelihoods in Cyprus, helping them and the economy at large. Some of the best of these family-run businesses include Lambouri Winery, Zambartas Winery and the Makarounas Boutique Winery. Many of these businesses offer wine tasting services too!
If you’re a wine aficionado like us, here’s a list of some of the best Cypriot wines you need to try on your next visit. You’re welcome!
● Ayia Mavri Moshato
● Kolios Shiraz
● Kolios ‘Persefoni’ Xinisteri
● Erimoudes Constantino
● Tsangarides Mataro.
As we’ve established, the wine in Cyprus is second to none, and so is the scenery. There are hidden gems all across Cyprus, many of them within the Paphos region. If you’re into your history, these are the places you have to visit:
1. Kato Paphos Archaeological Park
Kato Paphos is a world heritage site including monuments from the 4th Century BC to the Middle Ages and the Roman Period. You can explore the floors of four Roman villas and the Tomb of the Kings!
2. Paphos Castle
Paphos Castle was built to protect the harbour, and as such, looks out onto the beautiful bay that surrounds it. You can pay for a full tour to get a sense of the history or have a wander around on your own. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
3. Zenobia shipwreck
Believe it or not, the Zenobia shipwreck is known as one of the best ten diving spots in the world. Visitors can dive down to the ship and see the remains for themselves. Beat that Titanic! The Zenobia, built in Sweden, sank in 1980 in Larnaca, Cyprus. What makes the Zenobia so strange is that there is still no clear consensus as to why it sank!
● Coral Bay
Coral Bay is one of Europe’s finest beaches, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, clean and clear sand and beautiful swimming location. Not only is the beach itself incredible, but the surrounding area too, with shops and stalls where you can buy cool trinkets for the family back home!
● Aphrodite’s beach/rock
If you don’t know your Greek mythology, Aphrodite is the God of the Sea, and it is at this beach where she is said to have appeared. The views on this beach are breathtaking, especially on very sunny days. Make sure you bring water shoes if swimming, though, as it is a rocky beach so not so lovely on your feet!
● Vrysoudia beach
Many of Paphos' beaches are filled with rocks - not this one! Clear smooth sand is what you’ll feel when you step foot onto Vrysoudia beach, followed by amazing swimming and a lovely relaxing atmosphere for the whole day. Enjoy!