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In the pine-scented heart of Cyprus’s largest forest, this is a 5-km (3-mile) uphill hike that is best done in spring or autumn, starting and finishing from the Platanouthkia spring outside Stavros tis Psokas.

Bouncing from wave to wave on the back of a motorized “waterbike” in imitation of your favourite action hero is a popular beach pastime for locals as well as visitors. Jetskis can be hired at all the resort beaches but, because of the cost of fuel, it’s a relatively expensive activity. Lifejackets are compulsory and because of the risk to swimmers it’s essential to steer well clear of the lines of coloured buoys which designate swimmer-only stretches of inshore water.

For experienced divers, these shallows, some 35 km (22 miles) offshore in the Pafos area, are a great place to see large pelagics such as tuna and jack, as well as octopus and moray. The site consists of a vast underwater cliff, with caves, pinnacles and a tunnel and dives offer drop-offs from the 20-m (65-ft) to 60-m (195-ft) levels. Like Mismaloya, this dive site takes longer to get to than most Cyprus dives. An unmissable experience as long as you have the qualifications.

In recent years Karaoglanoglou has blossomed into the North’s main resort beach. Plenty of hotels, restaurants, bars and watersports.

Would-be Grand Prix winners can test their skills to the limit at karting circuits at Pafos, Polis, Limassol, Larnaka and Agia Napa. Quad-bikes can also be hired at Agia Napa for thrills on the nearby dunes.

This adrenaline-pumping, extreme version of windsurfing involves being towed at high speed by a giant, parachute-like kite. Skilled boarders can make spectacular and daring leaps high into the air before plunging back into the waves. It’s just beginning to catch on in Cyprus, and those who dare may find kiteboards for rent at some of Agia Napa’s beaches.

Pine woods cover the steep slopes behind this minute cove, hemmed in by craggy headlands. It is easiest to get to by boat, and it’s a popular stop on day-trips from Protaras and Agia Napa, with good visibility for snorkelling.

Kryo Nero, past Agia Napa’s eastern outskirts, marks the end of the long sandy stretch that begins at Limnaki. A little further along the coast are the spectacular sea caves (Thalassines Spilies), where waves have carved grottoes and arches out of the limestone cliffs.

Purportedly named after a colonial cavalry officer’s favourite mare, this long stretch of gently shelving sand only a short drive from Limassol is surprisingly undeveloped, with just one small restaurant-bar which also rents out sun-loungers.