DK Travel : Cyprus

Cyprus packs a remarkable array of sights and attractions into such a small space: museums and archaeological sites that span more than five millennia of history, throbbing beach resorts, medieval fortresses, age-old temples standing on empty hillsides, cool mountain forests and pretty valleys chequered with vineyards, grain fields and olive groves all complete the landscape. On an island where one can swim and ski all in the same day, this is truly a holiday paradise with something for everyone.

Deryneia

This farming village looks over to the Turkish-occupied North, towards Famagusta, and you can make out the battlements of the walled city in the distance. Deryneia also has three pretty churches: 15th-century Agia Marina, 17th-century Agios Georgios and the church of the Panagia (see Famagusta Gulf Viewpoint).
Desdemona Kebab and Meze House, Famagusta

Cheap and plentiful meze and kebabs are the mainstays of this eating-place, in a vault within the ramparts – a good place to escape the midday sun.
Diarizos Valley

Greener and better irrigated than the arid Xiros, the upper Diarizos Valley is studded with medieval churches, farming villages and arched Venetian bridges. The clear-flowing river trickles southwest, and like the Xiros eventually feeds the Asprokremmos reservoir, a mecca for anglers.
Divided Cyprus

In 1983 the northern part of the island declared itself independent as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). It was, and continues to be, recognized only by Turkey.
Dome Hotel, Kyrenia

During the British colonial era the Dome was the poshest hotel in Kyrenia and the summer and weekend haunt of wealthy British expats. Although it has now been eclipsed by lavish new competitors, it has a nostalgic style and, with its location close to Kyrenia’s pretty harbour, is a handy base for exploring the region.
Dora

Within the church of Panagia Fotolampousa, on a hillside above this tiny village, is an antique icon of the Virgin which must, according to Christian Orthodox tradition, remain veiled forever.
Drouseia

Overlooked by the limestone crags of Agios Georgios, Drouseia is one of the region’s prettiest villages, with graceful old stone houses standing above steep lanes.
Easter Saturday

After midnight mass, villagers take home a taper lit from a blessed candle.
Easter Sunday

Villagers roast a goat; town-dwellers head to grill restaurants.
Elia Venetian Bridge

This arched stone bridge – one of many in the area – crossing a stream bed is testament to the skills of the Venetians who drove a highway through these hills. Mule trains carried copper ore from the Troodos mines to the harbour at Pafos.

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Restaurant price categories

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