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.

Luke Kelly’s Irish Pub, Agia Napa

Guinness on tap, and the array of paraphernalia and bonhomie that characterizes Irish pubs around the world, are all on offer here. Gets very crowded.
Lythrodontas

Located some 25 km (15 miles) south of Nicosia, this village is best known for its olive groves (Lythrodontas claims to have more olive trees than any other village in Cyprus) and “Avli”, a beautifully restored complex of traditional buildings offering accommodation. The nearby abandoned Monastery of Prophitis Elias is worth a visit.
Lythrodontas-Lefkara

A challenging 14.5-km (9-mile) ride to the pretty lace-makers’ village.
L’Onda Beach Apartments, Limassol

L’Onda has its own pool, and accommodation is in one- and two-bedroom apartments.
Maa

Maa is believed to be the first Greek-Mycenaean settlement in Cyprus. At the small museum weapons, amulets and jewellery are on display.
Machairas Monastery

Picturesquely located and sensitively restored, Machairas was founded in 1148. The centuries-old monks’ cells, stables and cellars are fascinating, and there is a fine collection of superbly executed icons (see Machairas Monastery).
Machairas Monastery

This monastery was founded in 1148 by two hermits guided by divine intervention to an icon of the Virgin, painted by Luke the Evangelist. The icon survived fires which damaged the monastery in 1530 and 1892 – proof, to believers, of its miraculous powers (see Machairas Monastery).
Mackenzie Beach, Larnaka

Mackenzie (sometimes spelt Makenzy) Beach reportedly owes its name to a Scots caterer who set up a restaurant-bar here just after World War II. Whatever the origins, this is urban Larnaka’s handy beach getaway, much favoured by local families for its grey but clean sand and shallow waters. Lifeguards keep an eye on things, and date palms line the esplanade behind.
Magic Dancing Waters, Protaras

Children (and most likely parents) will be enthralled by this one-hour rainbow-like display of illuminated fountains that seem indeed to make the water dance and change colour to a programme of classical and pop music themes. Get there early or book in advance from the tourist office, as seats are always at a premium.
Makronissos Tombs

Tombs hollowed into the hillside date from the Neolithic era (see Makronissos Tombs).

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