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.

Art and Architecture

Each of the empires that ruled Cyprus influenced its art and architecture. The Byzantines embraced Orthodox Christianity, which endowed the Troodos churches with their frescoes (see Troodos Painted Churches); the Lusignans left abbeys and palaces with Gothic elements; and Venetian artists influenced Cypriot icon painters. The decorative Koranic inscriptions which adorn mosques and fountains are an Ottoman legacy, while the British left graceful 19th-century public buildings.
Artemis Trail

In spring and autumn, crocuses, cyclamen and anemones greet walkers on this high trail, which starts from the Chionistra-Troodos and Troodos-Prodromos road junction and ends in the centre of Troodos village. Look out for the ruins of a 16th-century fort where a handful of Venetians made a gallant last stand against the Ottoman invaders in 1571. This 8-km (5-mile) walk should take less than three hours.
Ascott Pottery, Protaras

Children can try their hand at turning clay on a potter’s wheel at this welcoming commercial pottery. You can also buy their cheerfully coloured plates, bowls, cups and jugs.
Asprokremos

Those seeking Cyprus’s best uncrowded beach need look no further than this super stretch of sand on the north shore of the Akamas Peninsula (see Asprokremos).
Asprokremos

Some say this is the best beach in Cyprus, and it is certainly one of the least crowded, despite its majestic sweep of sand from which you can gaze out over the sparkling, calm waters or watch splendid sunsets over Cape Amaoutis and its offshore islets.
Assumption

Assumption is marked by pilgrimages to the island’s many churches bearing the name of the Virgin.
Atalanti Trail

A breathtaking panorama rewards walkers on this circular trail, which passes through forests of black pine and centuries-old juniper on its way around the slopes of Mount Olympus, the highest summit of the Troodos massif. Starting and finishing in the square at the centre of the Troodos Resort, the 12-km (7.5-mile) walk takes around five hours.
Avcilar, Nicosia

Favoured by Northern Cyprus’s movers and shakers, Avcilar favours game and other hearty traditional dishes. Prepare for a feast.
Bagatelle

Elegant French restaurant serving classic Gallic cuisine such as frogs’ legs and duck à l’orange . Live piano music at night.
Barbouni

Tiny red mullet are bony but delicious and served fried.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- £5–£10
- £10–£15
- £15–£20
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- over £30