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.

Fiti Village Weaving Museum

Old wooden handlooms, used by village women until very recently, are displayed here, along with spinning wheels and other tools of the weaver’s trade. The resulting colourful wall hangings and blankets are also on show.
Flamingo

Greater flamingoes spend the winter on salt lakes near Akrotiri and Larnaka.
Fontana Amorosa

The 6-km (4-mile) walk from the Baths of Aphrodite (see Baths of Aphrodite) winds along rocky slopes to end near a small spring, below which this bay of sand and pebbles is a very welcome sight.
Food and Drink

Cyprus owes most of its favourite dishes – from meze to baklava to doner kebab – to the Turks, who also introduced coffee to the island. Other empires contributed to the wine list: Commandaria was first made at Kolossi for the crusader Knights of St John. Red wines were introduced by the Lusignans, while fruity white hock and dry sherry were 19th-century British innovations.
Fota (Epiphany)

In harbour towns youths vie for the honour of retrieving a crucifix thrown into the sea.
Freedom Reggae Bar, Agia Napa

The gentle pulse of dub and reggae is the order of the day here. Friendly, laid-back and open day and night.
Frenaros

Archaeological finds near this village suggest that people have lived here for 10,000 years, making it one of the oldest settlements in Europe.
Galata

The precarious-looking balconies of handsome old village houses overhang the narrow main street of this old-fashioned community, which is about 2 km (1 mile) above Kakopetria. The village is located above a fast-flowing mountain stream. An ideal base from which to explore the nearby Troodos churches.
Galatex Complex, Limassol

You’ll find eight bars for the price of one in this drinker’s paradise so bring a man-sized thirst with you. There is something for everyone here, from the Down-under Sports Bar with big-screen sporting action to the Red Lion Pub serving English beers on tap.
Gazimagusa (Famagusta) Music Festival

Claiming to be the best music event in the Mediterranean, the festival hosts world music ensembles and folk musicians from all five continents.