Pafos and its environs : Aphrodite’s realm. In antiquity Pafos was the centre of the cult of Aphrodite.Swim in the sea by the rocks known as Petra tou Romiou where the goddess was believed to have risen from the waves, make a pilgrimage to her sanctuary at Kouklia, or visit the grotto near Polis where she was supposed to have bathed. Pafos, with its pleasant harbour and medieval fort, combines a cosmopolitan holiday resort, spectacular countryside and historical sites. It was the capital of Cyprus for 600 years in ancient times and its archaeological legacy is such that UNESCO put the whole town on its World Cultural Heritage List. The intricate floor mosaics in villas dating back to the Roman period depicting scenes from Greek mythology are considered among the finest in the Eastern Mediterranean. Equally impressive are the underground Tombs of the Kings carved out of solid rock and decorated with Doric pillars.

The Troodos Mountain : Beneath the whispering pines.Take a trip into the mountains for a refreshing break from the heat of the central plains and the coast. Rising to almost 2000 metres above sea level, the Troodos peaks provide panoramic views and place to go skiing in winter.Charming villages, some with cobbled streets and preserved folk architecture, nestle on terraced slopes amid vineyards and orchards of almond, hazelnut and cherry trees. Stop off at one of the cafes or restaurants next to a burbling mountain stream and try one of the preserved fruit desserts served as a typical island welcome, or dine on the locally produced rainbow trout, a speciality in the region.

Spend the day walking along one of the many nature trails, resting at a picnic site along the way, or visit the Visitor Centre in the Troodos forest park area.