In the footsteps of Aphrodite

According to Greek mythology, Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, was born from the white foam of the sea and rose from the waves off the coast of Paphos. It may be thanks to her that the island was blessed with shimmering shores, rolling mountains, picturesque fishing ports and quaint mountain villages. This experience trip will whisk you through both traditional and modern Cyprus, introducing you to a rich cultural heritage and overwhelming natural beauty.

Day 1: Departure to Paphos - Limassol

Depending on your flight, your trip will start in Larnaca or Paphos. From here you will head towards Limassol where you will stay in one of our Caractère hotels for two nights. Limassol has been called 'city of parties' since ancient times and is still a vibrant city that epitomises both old and modern. The island's maritime capital has a beautiful marina and a cosy old centre where strolling is a pleasure. Enjoy your first 'mezze' on a cosy terrace.

Day 2: Limassol - Kourion - Amathous - Akrotiri

Limassol is situated between two important archaeological sites, the ancient city kingdoms of Amathous and Kourion. Beautiful mosaics, ancient villas and an impressive amphitheatre adorn the Kourion ruins while at the Amathous site you can discover remains of the temple of Aphrodite. You can take a break on the Akrotiri Peninsula. At Akrotiri Salt Lake, you can observe numerous birds of prey, flamingos and cranes that use the lake as a stopover on their way from Africa to Europe. The region around Limassol is a hallmark of Cyprus' wine industry. The hillsides of the Troodos Mountains create the town's green backdrop. The hillside villages are known as 'Kraaochoria' or wine villages. They uphold the traditions of winemaking and to this day produce the island's best wines. Round off your day with the sweet dessert wine of Commandaria, one of the oldest wines in the world.

Day 3: Limassol - Nicosia - Troodos Mountains

From Limassol, you will head towards the capital Nicosia. This cosmopolitan city is a cosy mix of old and new. Besides a traditional old centre with winding streets that take you back to the Middle Ages, there is also a completely new part with plenty of interesting museums, galleries, trendy bars and restaurants. Through the countryside and numerous mountain villages you will drive all the way to the Troodos Mountains. Here you can literally go back in time. In the green heart of the island, you will enjoy endless views, forests and valleys. Visit traditional villages and wine-producing communities and observe their unique traditional customs. You will stay here for two nights.

Day 4: Troodos Mountains

Today you will enjoy the silence and nature. Put on your hiking boots and try one of the countless hiking trails. Some are already more spectacular than others. Visit Mount Olympus - not to be confused with Mount Olympus in Greece - and the dozens of Byzantine churches and monasteries where you will see the most precious frescoes. In the evening, enjoy traditional Cypriot dishes.

Day 5: Troodos Mountains - Paphos Forest - Cedar Valley

You will leave the Troodos Mountains and continue to Paphos Forest. Here you will make a stop in the beautiful mountain village of Cedar Valley and visit the famous Kykkos Monastery. You will stay in Paphos for three nights.

Day 6: Akamas Peninsula

Driving between orange fields, you will head to the Akamas Peninsula, which is a huge nature reserve. This is where you will still discover numerous pristine beaches where sea turtles nest. Go snorkelling in the crystal-clear water and go for a walk in the magnificent nature. If you prefer something more intensive, you can also hike through the Avakas Gorge, one of the most beautiful in Cyprus. Also be sure to visit the Baths of Aphrodite.

Day 7: Paphos

Paphos consists of an old and new town, whose central point is the harbour and the medieval castle. Stroll through the cosy streets and behold numerous historical monuments in the Kato Paphos district. Walk in the footsteps of Aphrodite or enjoy a beach day.

Day 8: Return home

From Paphos or Larnaca, you will head back home. Do you need a few more vacation days? Then you can extend your stay at one of our Caractère hotels of your choice.