Presented By:
Aniko Petrecs
Concierge Supervisor
perfectday
Cyprus is an island with perfect, rolling beaches and dazzlingly blue waters, but it also has a fascinating history and a wealth of captivating places to see. Start your day in Geroskipiou and try some freshly made loukoumi (Cypriot delights) to sweeten your mood. You can then feast your eyes on the awe-inspiring Church of Agia Paraskevi, located right in the centre of the town. This is a Byzantine architectural masterpiece with five domes and an atmosphere of sacred calm. Make sure you see the centuries-old frescoes in the dome above the sanctuary.
Head to Kato Paphos, where you can see the House of the God Dionysus, and then have a traditional Greek lunch at the local restaurant Hondros Taverna, open since 1957. With the delicious food and friendly, welcoming atmosphere in this place, the wine and smiles will surely flow. Afterwards, drive along the sparkling coastline and stop at the magnificent Tombs of the Kings, before heading to Agios Neophytos Monastery, which is 10 km northwest of Paphos. This glorious monastery has a fantastic history, which includes the tale of the hermit who in 1159 cut a cave from the rock with his own hands. There are also two shops with traditional Cypriot wares, made by monks. Under the shadow of the trees, enjoy a local Cypriot coffee and look at the rolling Mediterranean landscape.
There is no more perfect place for sunset than the Petra Tou Romiou. This is where Greek Myth says that Aphrodite, the Goddess of love, rose from the waves and onto the shores of Cyprus. The sunset seems to melt into the sea from this romantic spot, where legend has it that if you swim anti-clockwise round the rock three times at sunset, Aphrodite will ensure you good health. Afterwards, have a superb supper at Thanasis, where the meze will leave you satisfied but not so full that you can't dance the night away to the local music and be swept up in the traditional bouzouki dancing.