chiracshah, Author at Villa Plus Blog

Best Beaches in Kefalonia

July 21, 2021January 25, 2022chiracshah

Kefalonia beaches are among the best in the world. Think beautiful, unspoiled turquoise waters, dramatic landscapes, powdery-soft white sand and an abundance of marine life just waiting to be explored. Beach holidays to Kefalonia are truly breathtaking – when you’re not relaxing on the sand taking in the epic views, have a refreshing swim in the island’s clear Ionian waters, enjoy a snorkelling session or hire equipment for watersports. Here’s our guide to some of the best beaches in Kefalonia.

Antisamos Beach

Positioned on the north east coast of Kefalonia close to the attractions, restaurants and shops of Sami Port, Antisamos is an ideal beach for a day trip if you feel like having a day on the sands away from your Villa Katrina. Known as one of the best Kefalonia beaches for swimming, expect azure waters that are crystal clear and ideal for taking a dip and snorkelling. The beach is famous for being featured in the movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, and is very popular with visitors from all over Europe and locals, especially in the summer months. Getting here early is well worth it. That said, the beach is very well organised in terms of umbrella and sun lounger availability.

Avithos Beach

Situated around 12km from the island’s capital of Argostoli, Avithos beach is surrounded by lush greenery and staggering mountainous backdrops. Sink your toes into the soft, golden sand and place your towel on one of the best sandy beaches in Kefalonia. It’s an ideal place for young children given its soft sands and clear and shallow waters for paddling and playing. While the kids are kept busy, you can sit back and relax with a summer’s breeze in your hair and gorgeous views of Zakynthos and Dias. Parasols and loungers can be hired for the day, and there are plenty of nearby tavernas selling lunch, nibbles and drinks.

Petani Beach

At 850 metres long and with Blue Flag status, Petani beach is one of the best beaches in Kefalonia. Sitting on the Paliki peninsula with soft white sand, calm waters and lush green surroundings, it is easy to see why this beach has so many visitors and keen photographers frequenting its shores. Get ready for jaw-dropping blue waters that look out of this world, while making perfect conditions for snorkelling and swimming. Children will love the soft sand scattered with pebbles and shells. Close to the beach are a few tavernas selling food and light refreshments. You’ll also find showers and toilets just a few steps away from the shore. Our top tip is to get there early for a morning swim, before making your way up to the surrounding villages and monasteries for some local exploration as the beach gets more crowded.

Myrtos Beach

This is one of the most popular Kefalonia beaches, and it isn’t difficult to see why. It’s likely you’ve seen this stunning coastline on travel magazines and tourism board images of Kefalonia. In reality, the views, beautiful blue sea and soft golden sands are even more spectacular. Nestled between the mountains of Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros, this stunning beach is located around 30km from Argostoli, Kefalonia’s capital. Place your towel on the sands and soak up the majestic scenery while your family play in the water. There is a snack bar available, as well as sun loungers and umbrellas, but it is advised that you bring food with you, as it is more remote than other beaches on the island.

Xi Beach

Due to its higher clay content, the sand on this memorable Kefalonia beach is a gorgeous red hue, making for beautiful holiday photos. You can also use the sand as a natural exfoliant and give your skin a free spa treatment! There’s plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas on the beach, as well as lively bars and cafes playing music and serving up a range of food and drinks. Water sports lovers are well catered for with various facilities on offer, including jet-skiing, water skiing, wakeboarding and banana boating.

Discover our range of premium holiday villas in Kefalonia where you’ll find your home from home while discovering the best beaches in Kefalonia.

The Best Time to Visit Corfu

July 21, 2021July 21, 2021chiracshah

This lush Greek island in the Ionian Sea is a favourite with beach-goers and sun-seekers thanks to its sunny and warm Mediterranean climate that offers hot summers and milder winters. If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Corfu, the answer depends on what you want from your villa holiday.

Winter (December – March)

Corfu offers visitors mild winter weather, with highs of up to 15°C and generally clear skies making ideal conditions for exploring the great outdoors. That said, January can be the coldest month with temperatures of 10°C. If you prefer the cooler weather and exploring the quieter towns in-land on foot, this can be a great time for a break. Winter season is also Carnival season for the locals, so more popular towns can be crowded, but offer a fantastic opportunity to experience authentic Greek culture.

Spring (April – May)

Spring is a popular time of the year to visit Corfu, with many tourists visiting in the month of May, as temperatures can climb to between 19°C and 25°C, and days have up to 13 hours of sunshine. It is a great time to visit the beach if you want a quiet stroll on the sand, without the visitors and sunbathers that flock to the beaches during the summer. Little rainfall and clear skies make spring the best time of the year to go to Corfu and explore walking trails, historical ruins and nature parks around the island as everything comes into bloom. The 21^st May is a national holiday for the Ionian islands, as it celebrates the unification of them with the rest of Greece. An annual parade takes place on this day in the centre of Corfu town, and many banks and shops close, although restaurants and tourist shops remain open.

Summer (June – August)

The months of July and August are the best time of year to visit Corfu, as these months are the warmest times of the year, with scorching heat pushing the mercury to 31°C on the average day, and very little rainfall for weeks on end. The sea can be a balmy 25°C in the height of summer, making it perfect for a refreshing dip in the afternoon. Many people flock to the beach to enjoy the optimum temperatures, so booking your premium villa accommodation and planning your trip in advance can help you to avoid the crowds. Also be prepared for bustling and vibrant nightlife in the resorts in the evenings, with restaurants, bars and shops. On the first weekend after the 15^th August, the villages of Kato Garouna and Ano Gerakiana hold a festival to mark the return of previous residents of Corfu who may have moved away to the Greek mainland or other places around the world. The festival is designed for people to pay tributes to their home island, with a mood of excitement and gratitude.

Autumn (September-November)

By autumn, the crowded resorts empty out, making for a relaxed and quiet holiday with ideal beach weather. Early autumn is when the temperatures are still in mid twenties, so you can enjoy days at the beach and swimming in the sea. As October and November approach, temperatures start to dip, and you may need a warm jacket for the evenings but the weather isn’t too chilly for getting outdoors to hike and sightsee!

Now you know the best time of the year to go to Corfu, you need to book the premium villa you’ll be staying in. Discover our collection of properties in Corfu.

Best Beaches in the Algarve

July 21, 2021chiracshah

Frequently considered one of the best beach holiday destinations in Europe – the Algarve has it all. Expect sun-drenched dramatic coastlines with epic rock formations and stunning views, soft powdery sand between your toes and azure waters that are bursting with vibrant aquamarine life. The Algarve boasts 150km of shoreline just waiting to be explored, leaving holiday makers spoiled for choice. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly stretch of sand to play on with your children, snorkelling-friendly waters or watersports aplenty, you’ll find it on Portugal’s southern coast. Here’s our guide to the best beaches in the Algarve.

Praia da Dona Ana

This breath-taking beach often makes the Algarve’s (and even Portugal’s) list of top ten beaches. A calm and quiet beach, it is ideal for families thanks to its gentle waters and shelter from sea breezes thanks to the surrounding high cliffs. These sandy shores were actually extended in 2016 to make them the largest beach along the Ponta da Piedade coast. Waters are clear and perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Locals and tourists don’t come here for watersports, but to relax, and the absence of banana boats, jet skis and speed boats make it a quiet haven from more bustling beaches. Parasols and deck chairs can be hired for €15 per day, but be sure to get to the beach early, as the shores can get crowded in the summer. When you’ve topped up your tan, take an invigorating walk along the clifftops for some dramatic views and memorable holiday snaps, before heading back to your Villa Junico for dinner and an evening glass of wine by your private pool.

Praia do Farol

For those who want to get away from it all, this stunning Algarve beach, which has a name that translates to ‘The Island of the Lighthouse’, is the home of Cabo de Santa Maria’s Lighthouse, and is rarely visited by tourists because they don’t know it exists! Expect plenty of locals here who want to escape the bustle for a day. You get to the island via boat from Faro Marina or Olhão Marina, and if you want more of the beach to yourself and more space to relax, this is the place to be. Lifeguards are on hand during the summer months, and there are bars and restaurants nearby and sunbeds for hire, making it an ideal day out for couples or groups of friends who want to spend a few hours relaxing before grabbing a bite to eat and the last boat back to Faro or Olhão.

Praia da Marinha

Known as the poster-beach for the southern coastline, Praia da Marinha is repeatedly ranked among the best beaches in the Algarve. Many visitors come to see its ‘M’ rock formation, which has been famously featured in travel guides and promotional materials around the world, and which visitors can walk towards to investigate when the tide is low. We recommend taking in the panoramic views from the clifftops, before descending the stairs that are built into the cliffside, leading to the soft sand. An ideal beach for families, the waters here are usually relatively calm for swimming, paddling and snorkelling, with plenty of fish and marine life to discover in the rocky shoreline. If you are visiting with children, keep in mind that the beach provides little in the way of shade, so stock up on sun cream, as you will need to reapply it throughout the day. To get to the beach, which is located between Armação de Pêra and Carvoeiro, you will also need a car. Follow the N125 road, taking the exit at the International School. Signs clearly indicate the way to the beach. Parking is limited, and in the summer months, the shores can get busier and more crowded. Leaving your Villa Marina Azul in the early mornings will ensure a quieter experience if you’re holidaying in peak times.

Explore some of the Algarve and Portugal’s best beaches by booking a quality holiday villa in the sun. Discover our range of properties in the Algarve.

Where to go on holiday over February half term 2022

June 15, 2021June 15, 2021chiracshah

Look forward to a fun-filled holiday with family during 2022 February half term. In Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and Tenerife, you can leave the winter chill behind and embrace warmer climes with our premium villas in the Canary Islands.

Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest island in the Canaries, making it ideal for a long February half term 2022 holiday. We recommend staying in Villa Venezuela in Callao Salvaje, which is just a 15 minute stroll from amenities like restaurants, supermarkets, shops and the beach. The location of the property is very convenient for families thanks to the nearby resorts of Playa de Las Americas and Fanabe. Top attractions include Siam Water Park – a Thai-themed water park with slides, a lazy river and kamikazes, which you can book tickets to visit through your ‘My Villa Plus’ account. This water park has been voted the best in the world for seven consecutive years. The island also features Aqualand park, which is more suitable for little ones.

If you feel like heading away from the busy resorts and have hired a car, you should definitely explore Mount Teide National Park. Take a cable car ride up to the summit of Mount Teide, or hire a guide and trek the park, which is filled with various cacti species, sand dunes and interesting wildlife. Bring plenty of water and snacks – especially if you have kids in tow.

Lanzarote

With year-round warm temperatures, a relaxed pace and an inviting culture, this Canary Island is very popular as a winter destination. Lanzarote offers mild temperatures of 20-21°C in February, so you can leave your jumpers at home and enjoy the t-shirt-friendly weather. We recommend Villa Christine, which has everything you need at your fingertips. Centrally located in Matagorda, the property is just a short stroll from the beach, bars, restaurants and shops. If you want to head out a little further for a beach day, you’ll find Puerto del Carmen is just a short drive away, offering beaches and entertainment for the whole family.

Lanzarote has plenty of attractions to keep the whole family occupied. Children of all ages will love a day out at Dino Water Park and Aquapark, featuring plenty of water slides, fountains and attractions. A day trip to the Jameos del Agua caves is also recommended. The cave system has its own restaurant and an auditorium where you can listen to live music, allowing the sound waves to bounce around the cave chambers. If you want a day out that’s more connected to nature, the island’s Jardín de Cactus boasts 450 different types of interesting cacti species in a beautiful setting.

Fuerteventura

If sun is what you’re seeking on February 2022 holidays, then this island boasts 3,000 hours of it per year. Even in the winter months of January and February, the entire family can enjoy warm sunshine on their face and ambient temperatures for swimming. Why not book a trip for your loved ones and stay in the contemporary Villa Lugano? This property sits in an enviable location just a 15 minute walk from Corralejo’s town centre, while offering a private heated pool, gorgeous alfresco dining area and the latest contemporary fittings. Corralejo itself offers beautiful beaches, plenty of local markets for picking up fresh produce and souvenirs, boating day trips and dune buggy tours. Hire a car and explore Corralejo Natural Park which stretches along the island’s north-east coast, and offers some amazing views of the surrounding sand dunes.

Ready to book your February half term 2022 accommodation? Explore our range of quality villas in the Canary Islands.

Where to visit in Croatia

June 15, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

From pristine white sand beaches to historical Roman ruins, Croatia has a wealth of treasures just waiting to be discovered on your villa holiday. In the last ten years, this Eastern European country has become a true summer holiday destination, where the coastline stretches for almost 1800 kilometres, and 1185 islands make the perfect backdrop to a family photo. So, what’s Croatia like for holidays? It’s a little bit of everything! The Dalmatian coast boasts incredible beaches and boating trips, while the Istrian Riviera features a strong snorkelling scene which is ideal even for beginners thanks to its calm and warm waters. When you are not enjoying the beach or your private villa, there’s plenty of historical sites to discover in the ancient cities of Split, Pula and Dubrovnik, as well as walking trails in the country’s national parks.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

If you love getting outdoors and you’re wondering where to go in Croatia, nature-lovers will relish hiking this stunning park, which has 16 waterfalls that are interconnecting, and a wide range of wildlife to discover. Days trips are recommended, as the hiking trails can be rather extensive, so pack food and plenty of water with you for the day. If you don’t have a car, shuttle buses to the park are available. The park attracts large numbers of tourists every year, and is most popular in the summer. During the winter, skiers take to its majestic slopes. When you feel like stretching your legs and heading out of your Villa Lorna Lucia for an adventurous drive and a long, rewarding walk, this is the place to go.

Pula

Pula is another popular destination for travel lovers thanks to its historical roots. The city boasts a traditional Roman amphitheatre built in the same style as the Colosseum, and visitors can wander around this magnificent ruin and imagine what it must have been like to watch gladiator fights back in the day. Other historical sites of significance include the city’s old gates and monasteries, a Venetian fortress, and the city’s main square which is known as the Forum, surrounded by ancient Roman buildings. Pula is a vibrant mix of buzzing nightlife, trendy eateries and historical sites.

Zagreb

Zagreb is often compared to Prague thanks to its many events, vibrant nightlife and social scene and variety of stores for high-end shopping. It’s an ideal place to go in Croatia for a day trip, where you can meander around the Upper Town and discover Zagreb cathedral, St. Marks Church, Lotrscak Tower and the stone gate (Kamenita vrata), which is part of the old city walls. Discover Zagreb’s history and culture through its various museums and galleries, before stopping off for a strong coffee and a pastry in one of the many cafes in the area. For those who enjoy a buzzing nightlife, there are also plenty of restaurants, clubs, cocktail bars and live music to keep you entertained as the evening rolls in.

Rovinj

If you’re looking for a slower and quieter pace and want to know where to visit in Croatia, then we’d recommend Rovinj. Situated on the breathtaking Istrian peninsula and surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, the archipelago of Rovinj features 20 islands and an Old Town positioned on a small peninsula. Stunning holiday photos, beautiful vistas, delicious food and historical sites are all on offer here. Explore the various narrow cobbled streets of the town, taking in an old town clock from the 12^th century, St. Euphemia’s Basilica and city gates dating back to the medieval era. Pick up local produce for cooking back at your Villa Kristina, before touring the harbour and Carrerra Street, which boasts plenty of art galleries for picking up local artworks and souvenirs.

Explore the stunning beaches, ancient sites and nature trails of Croatia on your perfect villa holiday. Browse our exclusive range of holiday villas.

Things to do in Lagos

June 15, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

Nestled towards the western corner of Portugal’s south coast, Lagos has a reputation for beautiful beaches with dramatic rock formations and azure waters that are perfect for swimming. It is one of the most popular areas of the Algarve, and was founded in around 2000BC by the Cónios tribe. Its rich history dates back to rulings by the Moors, Romans, Carthaginians and Christians, with some buildings and churches even dating all the way back to the 13^th century. Now a bustling hub of activity, this former fishing village boasts plenty of historical sites, romantic town squares, a vibrant marina and plenty of day trips and activities to keep the whole family entertained on your villa holiday. Here’s our guide to popular Lagos things to do.

Spend the day at the beach

Stunning beaches and rugged cliffs offering fabulous views is the main reason why Lagos is so popular with world travellers. If you feel like spending the day away from your private pool and gardens in your Villa Daisy, why not spend a day at one of the many Blue Flag beaches in the area? All beaches are well-catered, featuring lifeguards and toilets. We recommend Praia Dona Ana, which has been consistently rated as the poster beach for the Algarve. Staggering rock formations and jagged cliffs harmonise with deep turquoise waters for Instagram-worthy snaps. Cave kayaking and diving lessons also operate from this beach. Another good beach for families is Meia Praia – an open stretch of vast white-sand shoreline, warm waters for swimming and a local bar. It’s an ideal place for the whole family to play in the water due to its gentle waves. Also worth visiting is Praia dos Estudantes, which is famous for its dramatic cliffs, rock stacks and natural caves that are popular with travel photographers. These waters are excellent for surfing and paddle boarding. If you’re an experienced surfer, head a little further west to Sagres, where the waves are more energetic.

Enjoy a boat trip

Sailing along the Algarve in a catamaran is the perfect way to create holiday memories with your loved ones. Many catamaran day trips include stop-offs for swimming, dolphin watching and snorkelling. Children in particular will love spotting dolphins in their natural habitat, and dolphin sightseeing trips can be organised using speed boats to ensure that you have the best chance of seeing these amazingly intelligent creatures. Other boat trips cover the famous Ponta da Piedade caves, which feature luminous waters and epic rock formations.

Visit a theme park

If you have children to keep occupied, one of the best things to do in Lagos is to visit its zoo, where you can learn more about the region’s wildlife, as well as other animals from around the world that are far more endangered, such as the Lynx. If you’d rather get stuck into something adrenaline-filled, Lagos Adventure Park features high ropes and a treetop obstacle course and is fun for both kids and adults. Or why not try Pro Putting Garden – an 18-hole crazy golf circuit that will test the whole family’s putting skills!

Tour historical ruins

History buffs are well catered for in Lagos, which boasts a very rich and diverse heritage. Explore the Forte Ponta da Bandeira – an ancient 17^th century fortress that once defended the harbour and was considered the most advanced structure in the region because of the strength of its walls. You can cross the moat through the drawbridge, which leads to a small chapel containing beautiful tiles. Also worth visiting is the Castelo de Lagos, which looks like something out of Game of Thrones. It is unknown exactly when this castle was constructed, but it has been suggested that it also dates back to the 17^th century.

Now that you know some of the best things to do in Lagos, it’s time to book the holiday villa of your dreams close by. Browse our selection of quality holiday villas in Lagos.

Things to do in Paphos

June 1, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

Heading to Cyprus on holiday? The city of Paphos has it all – including delicious local cuisine, stunning beaches and fascinating cultural sights. As the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, there’s lots of archaeological sites to discover that date back to ancient times, while foodies will be catered for with the various food and vineyard tours on offer. For kids, there’s a zoo and a water park that’ll keep them entertained for hours on end. Here’s our ultimate guide to the best activities in Paphos.

Kato Paphos

This lively resort area is situated around Paphos harbour and features plenty of shops, hotels, music venues, bars and restaurants. As the evening draws in, take a wander down Ayiou Antoniou street, which comes to life as its various clubs and bars open up and locals get ready to dance the night away. The area also features Alykes beach, which features sunbeds and plenty of opportunities for water sports. Further inland, put on your walking shoes and hike to Kyriaki church, which is situated among Ottoman Baths dating back to the 1500s, and the Chrysopolitissa Basilica, which dates back to the early-Christian era. If discovering ruins interests you, you should also explore the Kato Paphos Archaeology Park, which features incredible remnants from Roman times. Here you’ll find four Roman villas that were inhabited by well-heeled citizens. Their mosaics date back to the year 100AD, and feature depictions of mythology from the period.

Paphos Archaeological Museum

If you want to dig deep into the history and culture of Cyprus, this museum is one of the best things to do in Paphos. The extensive collection of artefacts from 15 archaeological sites documents human life on the island from the Neolithic age, right up to the 18^th century. You’ll find intriguing historical items from ancient Paphos and Kouklia, featuring housewares, furniture and even a large collection of coins that were originally minted in Paphos. Every room in the museum takes visitors through another stage of the island’s history, including Ancient Greek and Roman marble sculptures.

Aphrodite’s Rock Brewing Company

You may not think of beer when you think of Cypriot cuisine, but the island has its own brewery, and has actually been making beer for thousands of years. Located just outside of Paphos, this microbrewery offers an insight into how the golden amber is created, using English brewing traditions and Paphos spring water. On weekdays, you can book a tour of the premises which starts at 2pm, where you can sample the various beverages on offer. Just make sure to book a taxi back to your Villa Pola for an alfresco dinner next to your private pool!

Aphrodite Water Park

This fun-filled water park will keep the entire family entertained and cooled down from the scorching heat. The park is the largest water-slide theme park on the island, with 17 attractions for all ages, including tube rides, a lazy river, four high speed plunges and various waterfalls and fountains.

Paphos Zoo

The animals in this zoo were once owned by a private collector called Christos Christoforou. He then decided to open his zoo to the public, so that all could enjoy learning about animal conservation. A great day for all the family, wander around the complex and discover ponds and gardens, monkeys, tigers, kangaroos, white lions, meerkats and giraffes. The zoo also boasts a diverse collection of birds, with more than 200 species living on site (including birds of prey), making for an interesting day out and one of the best activities in Paphos.

Troodos Mountains

If you feel like stretching your legs and getting the whole family on a day out from relaxing in your Villa Haliki, take a drive to the Troodos Mountains – the largest mountain range on the whole island. Expect some breathtaking scenery and wide ranging vistas that you will want to share with your friends and family. Take a break from hiking the foothills and rest awhile in one of the small cafes in the area’s sleepy mountain villages. Also worth exploring are the various churches and Byzantine monasteries you pass on your way.

Now you’ve read our guide to the best things to do in Paphos, you’ll need to book somewhere to stay while you explore the island. Discover our quality holiday properties in Cyprus

Best Beaches in Cyprus

June 1, 2021April 29, 2026chiracshah

Cyprus is well-known as a beach destination and its white sandy shores that are ideal for sunbathing and lazy days. 57 beaches on this beautiful Eastern Mediterranean island have been awarded Blue Flag status for cleanliness and safe waters for swimming. As Cyprus is the third largest island in the whole of the Mediterranean, you have plenty of beaches to choose from, here are some of our favourites and what makes them so unique.

Nissi Beach

Located in Ayia Napa, this is one of the most famous beaches in all of Cyprus, and is known for its buzzing atmosphere, youthful vibe and the many locals and visitors that come out of the bars to continue the party on the sand. At night, this is the place to be if you want a lively atmosphere and don’t feel like heading to bed early. Here you’ll find beach parties aplenty and can dance beneath the stars right into the early hours of the morning. During the day, the beach is quieter and ideal for snorkelling, water sports and swimming thanks to its shallow waters.

Aphrodite Beach

Aphrodite beach is one of the best beaches in Limassol and is very popular with visitors for its mythology and history. You can’t swim in the waters on this beach, as the sea is too choppy, but it is worth visiting because this is the location of Aphrodite’s rock, where the goddess of beauty and love supposedly rose from water in around 1200 BC. Take in the unusual rock stacks and formations, which look particularly stunning in the evening as the sun sets. There is also a restaurant and tourist office nearby.

Fig Tree Bay

Situated in the resort of Protaras, this beach is not only one of the best beaches in Cyprus but also the world. In 2011, it was given the title of the best beach in Europe, and as of 2019 is still the third best beach on the planet. It is lined by fig trees, hence the name, and boasts golden sand shores that are 500 metres long and in pristine condition. The water is shallow, making it ideal for families and small children in particular. Pack your snorkelling gear, as there are plenty of fish to spot beneath the surface. The beach also offers parasailing and windsurfing, as well as a cafe for refreshments and a car park.

Makronissos Beach

When you fancy a beach day after exploring your Villa Poppy private pool and gardens, head to this delightful Blue Flag beach positioned just three miles outside of Ayia Napa city centre. That said, it is a quiet spot that is ideal for couples and those who want a slower pace for relaxing on the beach with a picnic and a book. Banana boating and scuba diving are on offer here, along with other water sports. The main beach has calmer waters and is ideal for families. Heading west, the waters are a little more lively, making ideal conditions for body boarding and surfing. After a day topping up your tan, head to the Makronissos Beach Club for dinner and live music as the sun sets.

Blue Lagoon Beach

Notably one of the best beaches in Paphos, this beach takes its name from the striking colour of its waters. Warm sea temperatures and a shallow depth also make it ideal for young children and families, as well as snorkelling thanks to its colourful reef. When you’ve spent a few hours unwinding, head up to the cliffs overlooking the beach and hike one of the nearby walking trails for stunning views. This beach is a bit more isolated and there aren’t facilities or places to buy refreshments, so pack plenty of water and prepare food in your Villa Pegasus kitchen ahead of time if you’re thinking of staying for a while.

Ready to discover some of the best beaches in Cyprus? Explore our range of quality holiday villas on the island and get ready to find your perfect place to soak up the sun.

Things to do in Cyprus

June 1, 2021April 29, 2026chiracshah

Cyprus is an island known as the jewel of the Eastern Mediterranean. However you like to spend your time on holiday, you’ll find plenty of attractions on this beautiful isle, which boasts a colourful history, archaeological sites, outdoor activities, water parks, white sand beaches and stunning nature parks. Here’s our ultimate guide on what to do in Cyprus while on your travels.

Kykkos Monastery

As one of the island’s most intriguing buildings, Kykkos Monastery features highly detailed decorations and various antique exhibits made from precious metals that offer an insight into Cypriot history. If you want to reach this fascinating attraction, you’ll need to wear proper walking shoes and make the rewarding hike up the Xystarouda-agiasma-vasili trail once you’ve parked up. There’s also a museum found at the centre of the monastery, featuring pre-Christian manuscripts and documents. On 14^th and 15^th August, religious festivals are held at this site.

Latchi Beach

One of Cyprus’s main attractions is its beaches. When you feel like venturing a little further than your private pool in your Villa Pegasus, you’ll be spoiled for choice with 57 Blue Flag beaches on offer. We recommend Latchi beach, which boasts gentle waters for young and inexperienced swimmers and a range of cosy beach bats invite you to linger and enjoy.

Fasouri Watermania

If you have children in tow, there’s no better place to take them for plenty of fun activities and cooling down from the heat than Watermania. This is the largest water park on the island that features baby bungee swings, paddle boats, a lazy river and black hole power slides. Kids of all ages will be entertained here – including the adults! There’s also a range of facilities including a restaurant, massage parlour and temporary tattoo shop.

Tombs of the Kings

A must-see during any visit to the island and one of the most interesting things to do in Cyprus, this World Heritage Site is located around 1.25 miles north of Paphos harbour. Dating back to the 4^th century BC, step back in time as you enter this underground historical site carved out of rock, which serves as a burial ground for high officials. Marvel at the meticulous attention to detail on the tombs and the ancient stone carvings.

Kato Paphos Archaeological Park

If you want an insight into ancient Roman and Greek life, pay a visit to this amazing archaeological site, which features an old city that was inhabited right up until the Middle Ages. Wander around four villas dating back to the Roman era, all featuring intact mosaic flooring. The site is still undergoing excavation, and continues to paint a clear picture of what life was like in Cyprus during the period.

Paphos Castle

This Byzantine fort was originally constructed to protect Paphos harbour, but was destroyed in an earthquake in 1222. It was rebuilt in the 13^th century by the Lusignans, and to date is used to host cultural events and festivals – one of which is the September Aphrodite festival. There is a nominal entrance fee to enter, but once inside, a wealth of fascinating history is uncovered that represents Cypriot power at the time.

Larnaca salt lake

Nature lovers will love exploring this collection of four salt lakes, which are home to several migratory birds and flamingos. During the summer months, water in the lakes evaporates, leaving a crusty salt surface. This salt used to be harvested and exported to other countries. Nowadays, the lakes are visited by tourists who enjoy taking in their picturesque beauty.

Now you have your itinerary planned, it’s time to book the Cyprus villa of your dreams to call your home-from-home. Search our selection of quality Cyprus holiday properties.

Things to do in Albufeira

May 10, 2021May 10, 2021chiracshah

As the largest resort town in the Algarve, Albufeira has plenty of things to do to keep you and your loved ones occupied during your next villa holiday. What was once a sleepy fishing village has now become one of Portugal’s most popular resorts – and for good reason. Unspoiled beaches, a historical town centre and plenty of theme parks, boat tours, day trips, shops, restaurants and bars make Albufeira a fantastic holiday destination for all ages. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Albufeira.

Investigate the Old Town and Strip

There are two sides to Albufeira – one is ancient, historic and calm, while the other offers a more lively social and nightlife scene. However you like to spend your holiday, both the Old Town and the Strip are worth exploring. Once occupied by Arabs and Romans, Albufeira has an intriguing history that reveals itself in the Old Town. The local 18th-century church of Sant’Ana in Largo Jacinto d’Ayet is an interesting landmark, as is Albufeira’s archaeological museum, which offers artefacts dating all the way back to the Stone Age. Meander around the Old Town and take in the local history while stopping on occasion for refreshments at a traditional cafe.

Livelier is the Strip, which is the home of Albufeira’s nightlife. Stretching from north Albufeira to Oura beach, it is filled with places to eat offering Italian, Portuguese, Spanish and English fare, as well as plenty of bars, clubs and shops. Whether you visit during the day or night, this area of the resort is always buzzing with life.

Explore Paderne village

If you feel like heading a little further out from Villa Casa Pinheiro (located on Albufeira’s outskirts), around 13km away from the resort and set back into the Portuguese countryside lies Paderne village, which is perfect for a tranquil day out and experiencing rural life. Wander around the historic village centre, which features an old watermill, renovated windmill, historical bridge and two churches – Nossa Senhora da Esperança (from the 16^th century) and the Nossa Senhora do Pé da Cruz (from the 18^th century). If you and your family love the great outdoors and hiking, take the walking trail up to Moorish Castle, which rewards you with magnificent views once you reach the top, as well as intriguing castle ruins. Art lovers are catered for too, with the Corte Real gallery selling a variety of international artworks that you’ll want to take home.

Enjoy a beach day

Stroll along one of the longest stretches of sand in Portugal, the Praia da Falésia, which stretches 6km from Olhos de Água to Vilamoura, and offers spectacular views, whether you decide to walk along the clifftop or the shoreline. Albufeira offers plenty of stunning beaches just a stone’s throw away, but if you want to head further up the coast to a quieter spot, hop in the car and drive to Praia Galé, which is just west of Albufeira. This beach offers epic rock formations, calm waters for snorkelling and plenty of bars and restaurants for refreshments – the ideal place to spend the day on the beach, before returning to your Villa Marina View.

Head to a theme park

When you’re on a family holiday with the kids, Albufeira offers plenty of things to do. Zoomarine offers an amazing family day out, and features water slides, a 4D cinema, bird shows and of course, dolphins. If you’d rather stay out of the heat during the day, head to Hot Wheels skating park – an indoor complex that has the boastful title of the Algarve’s fastest karting track, and which also features a bowling alley nearby. If water parks are more your thing, the whole family can cool off at Aqualand, which has everything from a lazy river to adrenaline-filled water slides, kamikazes and more.

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