Category: Cyprus

Top 5 Must-Visit Beaches in Cyprus for Your Holiday

Top 5 Must-Visit Beaches in Cyprus for Your Holiday

Cyprus, the jewel of the Mediterranean, is famous for its rich history, vibrant culture, and, of course, its beautiful beaches. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, a family-friendly spot, or a lively beach perfect for water sports, Cyprus offers something for everyone. The combination of its stunning coastline and warm Mediterranean climate makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing beach holiday.

If you’re planning a villa holiday in Cyprus, there’s no better way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty than by staying in one of our villas. To help you make the most of your holiday, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 beaches in Cyprus that you simply can’t miss.

Fig Tree Bay

Fig Tree Bay is often considered one of the best beaches in Cyprus, and for good reason. This beautiful stretch of golden sand is located in the lively resort town of Protaras, on the eastern coast of the island. The beach is named after a lone fig tree that grows near the shore, providing a natural shade for visitors. With its clear, shallow waters and safe, family-friendly atmosphere, Fig Tree Bay is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a variety of water sports.

The beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a selection of nearby restaurants and cafes. For those looking to explore the underwater world, Fig Tree Bay is also home to a few secluded coves that can be reached by boat or kayak.

Nissi Beach

If you’re looking for vibrant energy and an exciting atmosphere, Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa is the place to be. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand, and lively beach clubs, Nissi Beach is one of the most famous Cyprus beaches. It attracts visitors from all over the world who come to enjoy its electric vibe and beach parties. During the summer months, the beach is lined with bars and restaurants, and the air is filled with the sounds of music and laughter.

Nissi Beach is ideal for those who want to enjoy both relaxation and action. You can easily spend the day lounging on the sand or take part in a variety of activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and beach volleyball. The beach is also perfect for families, with its shallow waters and excellent facilities.

Coral Bay

For those seeking a more peaceful and serene environment, Coral Bay in Paphos is a hidden gem that offers a stunning escape. Located on the western coast of Cyprus, Coral Bay is renowned for its calm, shallow waters and soft sand. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind, with less hustle and bustle compared to other popular beaches on the island.

Surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery, Coral Bay is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and even snorkelling. The beach is also well-served with facilities, including sunbeds, cafes, and shops, ensuring a comfortable experience. If you’re a fan of hiking, there are some wonderful coastal trails nearby that offer breath-taking views of the Mediterranean.

Konnos Bay

If you prefer a quieter, more secluded beach in Cyprus, Konnos Bay should be at the top of your list. Located near Ayia Napa, Konnos Bay is a picturesque crescent-shaped beach surrounded by pine trees and rocky cliffs, offering an intimate and peaceful atmosphere. The turquoise waters and soft golden sand make it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Access to Konnos Bay is via a short walk down a scenic path, which adds to its tranquil vibe. The bay is not as crowded as other beaches in the area, so it’s ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Cyprus. While it’s more secluded, there are still a few small beach bars and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink.

Makronissos Beach

Makronissos Beach is another fantastic option for families visiting Cyprus. Located just a short distance from Ayia Napa, this beach is known for its soft sand, calm waters, and family-friendly atmosphere. The shallow waters make it ideal for young children, and the beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, parasols, and a variety of beachside cafes and restaurants.

Makronissos Beach also has a number of nearby archaeological sites, adding a cultural element to your beach day. The beach is less crowded than Nissi Beach, making it a great alternative for those looking for a quieter spot with excellent facilities.

Why Choose a Villa Holiday in Cyprus?

Cyprus offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, with options for every type of traveller. From the lively atmosphere of Nissi Beach to the peaceful escape of Coral Bay, there’s a Cyprus beach for everyone.

Villa Pandora Limni

Choosing a villa holiday in Cyprus offers a unique way to experience the island’s beaches. Our villas provide privacy, flexibility, and a more personalised experience compared to hotels or resorts. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly vacation, or a group holiday with friends, Cyprus has a villa to suit your needs.

View Villas In Cyprus

Things to do in Paphos

Things to do in Paphos

chiracshah

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 18th 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

Best Beaches in Cyprus

chiracshah

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

Things to do in Cyprus

chiracshah

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 14th and 15th 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 4th 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 13th 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.

5 unmissable things you absolutely must do in Cyprus

5 unmissable things you absolutely must do in Cyprus

chiracshah

Situated south of Turkey, Cyprus is a truly wonderful holiday destination for a villa holiday. The third largest Mediterranean island boasts picture-postcard villages, ancient monuments, jaw-dropping vistas and 400 miles of glorious coastline. Here are just 5 star attractions you mustn’t miss during a trip to this part of the world: 

Discover the enchanting Akamas National Park

Located on the island’s western tip, Akamas National Park is a breathtaking 230 square kilometres of rugged natural beauty and ecological importance. Its stunning beaches, gorges, valleys and cliffs are home to over 530 indigenous plants, as well as a host of birds, reptiles, butterflies and mammals. The best time to visit is the springtime when wildflowers set the park ablaze with colour. Hire cars are banned, so explore the park on foot via the three official nature trails or set off on an adventurous 4×4 jeep safari. 

Explore the famous Petra tou Romiou

One of the most famous sights in Cyprus is Petra tou Romiou in the southwestern region. The mythical birthplace of the Greek goddess Aphrodite, thousands of visitors flock here each year to marvel at these giant rock formations off the beautiful coastline of Paphos. The scenic views and beautiful sunsets make for fantastic photo opportunities, and the crystal-clear waters are popular with bathers. Legend has it that if you swim around the biggest rock three times, you’ll enjoy eternal youth and find true love! 

Step back in time at Kato Paphos Archaeological Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Archaeological Park of Kato Paphos is a delight for history buffs. It contains ruins dating from the 4th century BC to the Middle Ages, including much of the ancient Greek and Roman city. The park is still being excavated, but the biggest finds so far are four impressive Roman villas, all with exceptionally well-preserved mosaic floors. You can also discover other significant sites and monuments, like the Odeon theatre, Saranta Kolones (Forty Columns) Castle and the Tombs of the Kings. 

Learn about lace at Pano Lefkara

At the foot of the Troodos Mountains, in the island’s southeast, lies the traditional village of Pano Lefkara. This picturesque settlement is renowned the world over for its lace embroidery that’s been handmade in the village for centuries. As well as watching local ladies working on their needlecraft in the pretty cobbled streets, you can visit the Folklore Museum, handicraft centre, Turkish Delight factory, and 18 ancient churches and chapels dating back to the 11th century. Or just sit back with a coffee and watch the world go by from one of the taverns or cafes.  

Get wet and wild at Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark 

The biggest aqua centre in the Paphos region, Aphrodite Waterpark is a splash-tastic paradise for the whole family. Adrenalin junkies will love plummeting down the many high-speed slides, like the hair-raising 50ft “Free Fall” or fast-and-furious “Kamikaze”. Those who prefer a little less excitement will enjoy floating on a raft down the mile-long Lazy River. And little ones will have a whale of a time at the kiddies’ pool complete with pirate ship, tipping buckets and water jets! 

Check out our range of holiday villas in Cyprus. 

On the Gourmet Trail. Cyprus: Souvlaki

On the Gourmet Trail. Cyprus: Souvlaki

chiracshah

Our recipe for delicious Souvlaki, from Cyprus, is delightfully simple yet wonderfully tasty! Easy to make at home or in the comfort of your villa, this dish will please everyone.

Ingredients

3 sweet pointed peppers

4 sprigs fresh mint, leaves picked

1 small bunch fresh dill, chopped (stalks and all)

red wine vinegar

Greek extra virgin olive oil

1 lemon, to serve

For the kebabs

800 g higher-welfare leg of pork, shin if you can get it, cut into 2cm chunks

1 tablespoon dried mint

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1 lemon, juice of

100 ml good-quality olive oil

2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely grated

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

For the Tzatziki

½ large cucumber

200 ml fat-free natural yoghurt

1 small clove garlic, peeled

1 heaped teaspoon dried mint

1½ teaspoons red wine vinegar

 

Method

1. You can use wooden or metal skewers, but if you choose wooden, soak them in a tray of water to stop them burning. Put all the kebab ingredients into a bowl and mix it all together.  Cover with clingfilm and put the bowl in to the fridge, allowing the meat to marinade, anywhere from 30 minutes to 24 hours. The longer you leave it, the better it will taste!

2. Take the peppers and blacken them, either by putting them straight on to a barbecue or in a hot, dry griddle pan.. Keep turning them until the go black, then let them cool before removing the skin.

3. To make the tzatziki start by grating the cucumber into a sieve, which should be over a bowl. Add a pinch of sea salt and then strain out as much water as much. In a clean bowl add yoghurt to the cucumber, then using a pestle and mortar mash the garlic with a good pinch of salt until you have a paste, and spoon that into the bowl with the cucumber. Add the dried mint and red wine vinegar and mix really well.

4. Put the meat on to the skewers and add them to the hot griddle pan or barbecue for about 10 minutes. Turn the skewers every couple of minutes to ensure the meat is cook properly.

5. Add the peeled peppers to the mint leaves, which should be finely sliced, put them in a bowl along with the dill. Add 2 teaspoons of red wine vinegar, a pinch or two of salt and black pepper and a splash of extra virgin olive oil. Mix all of the ingredients together. Toss and mix together, then have a taste to check the balance of flavours. Cut your lemon into wedges.

6. Your Souvlaki is now ready to enjoy! Take the meat off the skewers, mix in with the pepper mixture and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Floral Themed Villas

Floral Themed Villas

chiracshah

To celebrate the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2019 we decided to dig out some of our floral inspired villas and share a bunch of our favourites with you.

 

Villa Poppy, Polis, Cyprus

Situated in a fantastic central location, just 900 yds from the beach, is Villa Poppy. Ideal for couples and small groups, this 2 bedroom villa is spacious inside and out and is the ideal place for a relaxing week or two in the sun.

poppy_914_villa1e_w4

Villa Daisy, Lagos, Algarve

Part of our Very Villa Plus programme is the daintily named Villa Daisy. With 4 bedrooms, sleeping up to 9 people, you’ll have plenty of room for all the family. Enjoy your private, heated swimming pool and impressive garden space during your Villa Plus holiday in Portugal.

Daisy

Villa Lavanda, Playa Blanca, Lanzarote

Just a 20-minute walk from the centre of Playa Blanca is Villa Lavanda. With 3 bedrooms, bright and airy rooms and a private, heated pool you have everything you need for your dream holiday this summer.

Lavanda

Villa Rosemary Sostis, Agios Sostis, Zante

This centrally located, 2-bedroom property is Villa Rosemary Sostis. Situated just 500 yds from the beach, the villa is also close to the waterside restaurants and mini markets. Enjoy the privacy of your villa, with heated pool, or use it as a base to explore the island. The choice is yours!

Rosemary Sostis

Villa Lotus, Porec, Croatia

Nestled in the countryside is Villa Lotus, an ideal choice for those looking for a relaxing holiday away from the hustle and bustle of a busy resort. The property had a landscaped garden, perfect for sunbathing in after a refreshing dip in the pool.

Lotus

Villa Jazminez, Marbella, Costa del Sol

This delightful 3-bedroom property is Villa Jazminez. Set amongst a mature, private garden, you’ll have a private pool, al fresco dining area and plenty of privacy.

Jazminez

Which of these villas would you pick? Let us know in the comments below

 

By Maddy Morgan

 

Cyprus cycling routes: best routes for villa holidaymakers

Cyprus cycling routes: best routes for villa holidaymakers

If you’re wanting an active getaway complete with sun, sea and stunning sights, then you can’t go wrong with Cyprus. Alongside this Mediterranean gem’s vast beaches and cultural spots, it has an array of cycle routes that make Cyprus cycling holidays perfect for both adventure seekers and riders content to trundle along at their own pace.

To really make the most of your Cyprus cycling holiday, consider staying in a holiday rental. This’ll give you the option to prepare food in advance before heading out on a big ride, and at the end of a long day’s cycling it’s always nice to put your feet up by a heated pool…

The island’s compact size means it’s not hard to get from one side to the other. Explore Cyprus’ shore-spanning allures and check out some of these routes…

Through Athalassa National Forest Park

You’ll find this verdant park to the south of the island’s capital, Nicosia, or Lefkosia as it’s also known. A 10-mile cycle route runs through the park, suitable for most abilities, making it popular amongst locals and tourists seeking a bit of fresh air and exercise. Make a delicious picnic from your holiday rental, then stop by the park’s lake and dig into it once you’ve worked up an appetite.

Along Pedieos river

Southeast of Nicosia lies the suburb of Lakatamia. Saddle up, then cycle for five miles along the banks of the Pedieos river, starting in Lakatamia and finishing at the Presidential Palace on the outskirts of the capital. This is an easy, smooth and scenic route that’s perfect for young families looking to discover Cyprus. It takes a little short of two hours to get here from Paphos and Coral Bay, making this a perfect daytrip for anyone staying on the west of the island.

Beside the Limassol coastline

After tranquil sea views? Then try out this cycle route near the city of Limassol. Start at the old port and follow the coast towards the ancient city of Amathus, which is now an archaeological site. The route is paved, making it smooth and suitable for road bikes as well as hybrid and off-road models. Near to the site at Amathus, you’ll find a eucalyptus grove and beach area ideal for a picnic.

From Larnaka to Meneou

Step up your endurance game and cycle from Larnaka to Meneou. This enjoyable 11-mile cycle route starts at Larnaka’s main beach, running south past the city’s castle and popular Mackenzie beach, before joining the airport road and heading to the historic Hala Sultan Tekke mosque. From here the route continues round the airport to Meneou village.

From Paphos to Troodos

Endurance cyclists might be after something which’ll really get the gears working. This route from Paphos to the small town of Troodos is aimed at proficient riders, and is wholly rewarding if you’re up to the challenge. From Paphos Castle, head southeast along the coast until you reach the village of Mandria. Once you’re there, take the old Lemesos-Paphos road towards the Diarizos Valley. Continue southeast, past Psilo Dendro and towards Troodos.

Check out Villa Plus properties on the island and set the wheels of your cycling getaway rolling…

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

Best Mediterranean places to visit for cycling holidays

Best Mediterranean places to visit for cycling holidays

There’s something idyllic about cycling along a clifftop track while the sea gently crashes beneath you. Apart from that and the whizz of your hubs, the world seems mysteriously quiet. It’s moments like this that make cycling holidays in the Mediterranean region so appealing.

Between Spain’s Costa del Sol and Cyprus’ eastern shores you’ll find some of the best Mediterranean places to visit for cycling holidays. Here are a few that any cyclist should tick off.

Spain – Costa del Sol

Like the name suggests, Spain’s Sun Coast largely makes for brightly-lit rides which, depending on when you visit, can get a little hot, so bring a hydration pack! One such Costa del Sol cycle starts from the small hillside town of Mijas.

Study a few maps then make for La Cala Golf Course, a popular spot for golfers that’s south of Mijas. The route entails a mixture of arid single-track and two-lane roads, suited to either hybrid bikes or cross-country models. Like all great bike rides, it’s a mixture of ups, for a challenge, and downs, which leave you with a little more time to enjoy the stunning Andalusian views. Once you get to the river near the golf course, stop for a picnic, made up from the kitchen of your self-catering holiday rental, then prepare to do it all again on your way back to Mijas.


Image by Antonio, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Spain – Costa Blanca

Many professional cycling teams use the Costa Blanca as a training hub in the winter. The smooth surfaces here appeal to road cyclists who thrive on gradual climbs, speedy descents and flat stretches.

One of the most renowned climbs in the region is known as the Coll de Rates. You can easily access it from nearby towns, like Javea and Calpe. From Coll de Rates, make your way to the village of Parcent, where the route starts off with a light incline until you reach the summit. Soak up the verdant views of the surrounding region then replenish with a refreshing drink and get ready for a leisurely cruise back down.


Image by Phillip Capper, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Greek islands – Crete

If you’re ever struggling to tackle a Greek hill, promise yourself a big platter of mezes when you finish your ride to spur you on. Other than the end-of-ride meal, however, Greek island cycling makes for unbeatable holiday memories on routes you’ll always remember, many of which are found on Crete. A lot of Cretan roads are large and quiet, too, resulting in a wholly tranquil experience when you’re speeding across the island.

While it’s perfectly easy to trundle along these roads at your own pace, a real test of endurance is to brave the near-90km journey from Chania through the inland hills to the stunning village of Kallikratis. From here you’ll be able to see much of the island’s enticing coastline. Make sure you bring a camera, then capture the moment with a panoramic shot which’ll always remind you of your Crete cycling holiday. If you don’t fancy doing it over again, though, get a holiday companion to drive over and take you back to your villa rental.


Image by Andy Montgomery, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Cyprus – Paphos

Cyprus serves cyclists a selection of island routes for many different preferences. The city of Paphos and the surrounding resorts of Coral Bay are home to road and off-road paths suited to everyone from the everyday commuter to the endurance junkie who craves another fix of kilometre-rich coastal roads.

For a real challenge, cycle into the Troodos mountain range from Paphos. The journey itself is roughly 65 kilometres and is mostly downhill, making for a highly enjoyable and breezy trip. It’s suited to both road and off-road cyclists – just make sure your trusty steed is fitted with a good set of brakes for when you need to stop!

Take the time to soak up gorgeous Cypriot views, like that of the Diarizos river, which you’ll encounter along the way. It’s the fourth largest river on the island, although every twist and turn makes for a serene spot for a sandwich and a bottle of water. Failing that, you can always dip your feet in the river to help cool off before hitting the road again!


Image by Tomasz Huczek, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Mediterranean destinations have all the right ingredients for a cycling holiday – sun, scenery and a fair whack of sandy strips where you can put your feet up after a long day of pedalling!

Thinking about bringing your beloved bicycle on your next getaway? Here’s how to go about taking it onto an aeroplane.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

Good snorkelling holidays for villa-loving travellers

Good snorkelling holidays for villa-loving travellers

Holiday rentals provide the perfect basecamp for snorkelling getaways. Hiring a villa gives you the freedom to prepare your own packed lunches and dinners, and you’ll have plenty of room to store your snorkels, flippers and wetsuits.


Image by Lance, used under CC License (CC by 2.0) 

Good snorkelling holidays unlock a country’s most enthralling secrets. Pack your underwater camera and get ready to delve deep in some of these top destinations…

Costa del Sol, Spain

Costa del Sol is blessed with tepid waters bustling with marine life. On top of that, there’s plenty of sun-kissed beaches where you can set up camp before a few hours of snorkelling. Visit Maro beach, near the town of Nerja, and try to find its fascinating underwater cave if you’re feeling daring.

The shores surrounding Las Yucas and La Viborilla beaches, near Benalmadena, house a wide range of fish such as tuna, bonitos, and dolphinfish.

Costa Blanca, Spain

Like Costa del Sol, the Costa Blanca is a snorkelers’ paradise. Explore the region’s shorelines and you’ll quickly find that it’s simply brimming with underwater life. Granadella Cove, near Javea, has notoriously clear waters. Not only that, it’s quite sheltered so younger snorkellers can see the bay’s treasures, too.

The Algarve, Portugal

Portugal’s Algarve coast comprises playful Atlantic waters and warming sands. It’s also home to the famed Ria Formosa lagoon, one of the country’s many natural wonders. Here you’ll find one of the largest populations of seahorses in the world – wipe down your face mask and prepare to dive amongst them.

Cyprus

If you visit Cyprus during summertime, you might encounter beautiful green and loggerhead turtles on the island’s western coast. The island’s Cape Greco National Park is well worth a visit, too, complete with some of the clearest waters in the region and picturesque in every sense of the word.

Corfu, Greece

The Greek island of Corfu has plenty of spots for a good snorkelling holiday. Its pebbly beaches tend to have clearer waters, but you might want to wear a wetsuit or flippers to protect your feet from the jaggier rocks! Keep your eyes peeled for a diverse range of silverside fish, alongside flathead mullet and painted combers.

Pula, Croatia


Image by Christoph Sammer, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Croatia’s idyllic Adriatic coastlines are the envy of the world. Pula houses some of its finest and along with these renowned views, it has a number of great snorkelling spots.

Take Brijuni National Park, a short boat journey from Pula. The waters of these 14 small, protected islands are alive with flora, fauna and old Roman artefacts. In Verige Bay, on the western coast of the park, you can get a guided tour to explore submerged archaeological sites. Take full advantage and get excited for a day of underwater education.

Whether you’re travelling as a family, with friends or with your partner or spouse, a snorkelling holiday provides an unrivalled way to get to know a country’s ins and outs. Uncover exotic species of fish or simply paddle around and let the waves wash over you – underwater getaways are always ones to remember.

Have a look at some of the Villa Plus offerings in these hotspots and let your snorkelling dreams come to life.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.