Villa Polis

Offering stunning beaches, forests, theme parks and world-class nightlife, south-eastern Cyprus has something for all tastes. With highlights such as the Cape Greco Peninsula and Blue Lagoon, it’s a beautiful region that’s well worth exploring.

Just south of Protaras, Cape Greco attracts water-sports lovers with snorkelling, off-boat swimming and cliff diving among their pursuits of choice. The sea caves and the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon create a dramatic setting that draws many visitors. The Cape Greco National Park is also good for hiking, with its pine forests and rugged countryside giving it lots of variety.

Many more wonderful beaches line the coast, such as Pernera, Kalamies and Konnos Beach. You will often have the chance to try water-sports like scuba-diving and jet-skiing, and many offer well-organised areas for sunbathing and relaxing. Fig Tree Bay is perhaps the most famous of them all, previously voted one of Europe’s best beaches.

Protaras offers all sorts of activities and tours to visitors. You can join organised food or wine tours and try the region’s best delicacies, or hop onboard a boat and explore the sea caves. There are also numerous places to eat, drink and shop, so the resort really has everything you’re likely to need during your stay.

About 35 minutes’ drive from Protaras, the CyHerbia Botanical Park’s beautiful, fragrant gardens and maze are one of the area’s big highlights. In summer, the park hosts a popular Lavender Festival which looks and smells terrific, and there are several other big events staged throughout the year. It’s such a photogenic place, it’s also very popular for photo shoots – if you fancy getting some special pics, this is the place to go.

There are many more interesting things to see around the region. In Larnaca, you will find the calming Salt Lake, an important area of wetland which hosts flamingos and many other birds. A marina, medieval fort and the Church of Saint Lazarus are among this large city’s other highlights, while the nearby Camel Park makes for a fun day out.

Ayia Napa has lots more that will prove popular with kids, with amusement parks, a water-park, casual dining restaurants and sea-faring adventures on its pirate ship and Yellow Submarine. It also offers up some historic sights, like its 16th-century monastery and the 19 ancient Makronissos Tombs. Other points of cultural interest include Ayia Napa’s impressive ocean-facing Sculpture Park.

About an hour’s drive from Protaras, Famagusta is known for its ‘ghost town’ area, Varosha – uninhabited and closed off since 1974 following an invasion by the Turks. Parts of this once-glamorous area are decaying, while some are said to be frozen in time. You’re not allowed in, but you can look from a distance, and many people make the trip to do so

Read more about Pernera

Nestled along the sun-kissed coastline of Cyprus, Pernera offers a perfect blend of tranquillity and excitement. This fabulous coastal resort town comes with crystal-clear waters, golden beaches and a wonderful array of tourist attractions.

The heart of Pernera is its charming harbour, where colourful fishing boats bob on glistening, azure waters. Sprinkled with quaint tavernas and seafood restaurants, the harbour invites visitors to indulge in freshly caught delights while enjoying panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Meandering through the narrow streets, visitors admire traditional Cypriot architecture, with whitewashed buildings adorned with vibrant bougainvillaea and cascading geraniums. One of Pernera's architectural landmarks is the lovely Ayia Triada Church, a small but beautiful Orthodox church surrounded by lush greenery. This religious site, dating back to the 17th century, offers a serene escape for those seeking a moment of reflection and cultural immersion.

Pernera is a haven for water enthusiasts, with its inviting beaches and wonderful choice of water sports activities. Families can embark on thrilling boat excursions exploring the coastline or try their hand at windsurfing and snorkelling in the clear, turquoise waters. For a more relaxed experience, the beaches of Pernera provide the perfect setting for a sun-soaked day with golden sands and gentle waves. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Cape Greco National Forest Park, located just a short drive from Pernera. This protected area is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, featuring scenic trails, sea caves and breathtaking viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean.

Visitors enjoy easy access to several other enticing destinations when staying at Pernera. Just a short drive away, the bustling town of Protaras beckons with its vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options and the iconic Fig Tree Bay, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Venturing further, the ancient city of Famagusta, with its rich history and well-preserved medieval walls, provides a fascinating glimpse into Cyprus' past. Meanwhile, the cosmopolitan city of Larnaca offers a blend of modern amenities and cultural treasures, including the impressive Larnaca Castle and the vibrant Finikoudes promenade. For those seeking an authentic Cypriot experience, nearby villages such as Dherynia and Sotira offer a glimpse into traditional island life, with their quaint squares, historic churches and welcoming locals.

Families spend quality time at the nearby Ocean Aquarium, where a diverse array of marine life, interactive exhibits and entertaining shows promise an educational and enjoyable outing. The aquarium's touch tanks allow children to get up close and personal with sea creatures, creating lasting memories. The Magic Dancing Waters Show is a captivating spectacle combining lights, music and water acrobatics, providing an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages. In the heart of Pernera, a fantastic playground is popular with younger visitors.

Pernera seamlessly blends relaxation, adventure and cultural exploration. From its scenic harbour and historic sites to the array of family-friendly activities and easy access to nearby attractions, Pernera promises a Mediterranean escape filled with lasting memories for all who visit.