About Paphos and the Area
The resort of Aphrodite Hills is situated among the hills between the major towns of Paphos and Limassol.
Less than two kilometres away is one of Cyprus’s most well known landmarks, Petra tou Romiou, though more commonly known as Aphrodite’s Rock. Legend has it that this was the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of love. The coast here is dominated by dramatic white cliffs, contrasting beautifully with the turquoise sea.
Pissouri
A few kilometres away is the charming village of Pissouri. The main village has a number of lively tavernas surrounding the village square, and there are several fish restaurants down by the beach. This sandy, blue-flag beach has excellent facilities, making it ideal for families.
Paphos (Pafos)
The Paphos district is one of the greenest and most varied areas of Cyprus. The town itself is only 20 minutes from Aphrodite Hills. A great selection of cafes and restaurants can be found down by the charming harbourside. The promenade leads to the medieval fort that overlooks the sea front. Next to the fort is the entrance to the Paphos Archaeological Park which contains some of the finest mosaics to be found in the Eastern Mediterranean. Nearby is the equally fascinating ‘Tombs of the Kings’, which date from the 4th century BC. In the hills overlooking Paphos can be found the Agios Neophytos monastery, which was founded in the 12th Century by a Cypriot hermit.
The Akamas peninsula, to the north of Paphos, is a beautiful and largely unspoilt area definitely worth a visit. You could start your visit at the stunning Avakas Gorge, and then continue on to the scenic Lara Bay. This protected beach is where the endangered Loggerhead turtles take refuge to nest. Heading towards the mountains, one can visit a number of delightful villages, such as Akourdalia, Kathikas, Letympou, Goudi, and Kritou Tera, where it’s possible to experience some authentic local cuisine.
The Coral Bay area provides some of the best beaches on the western side of the island. Located around 8km west of Paphos town, it is a perfect area for families. Another good family beach is ‘Sodap’ beach, by the old winery in Kato Paphos.
Limassol (Lemesos)
The city of Limassol is only 20-25 minutes away and it is the 2nd biggest city on the island. Limassol is known for being a really lively city, with good nightlife, trendy cafes and restaurants. It’s also reknowned for its shopping. The Fassouri Water park just outside Limassol is a great family outing. This water park has been shortlisted as one of the top 3 in Europe. For fine dining and a night out, the ‘Carob Mills’ complex is ideal.
Kourion
Kourion is one of Cyprus’s most important archaeological site. This ancient kingdom in parts, dates back to the 2nd century BC. It is situated on a plateau with impressive views of the coastline below and sea cliffs .Aphrodite Hills is only 15 minutes. The magnificent Greco-roman amphitheatre is still used for concerts and theatre performances. Also impressive is the Agora, the public baths but also the Sanctuary of Apollo which is 3kn away from Kourion.
The sea-front of Limassol has been well developed and it offers a good number of lovely family beaches.
Alternatively, you could head for the beach of Avdimou which is only 15minutes away from the resort. This long beach is rather scenic and has a couple of charming fish taverns. Parts of it are pebbly and others sandy. The luxurious Aphodite Hills 'Zias Beach Club' occupies a small portion of the beach. The great facilites combined with the friendly staff and the free shuttle bus service to and from the resort, guarantee the most satisfyng and relaxing day by the beach.
Limassol District
Amongst the nicest parts of this district is the wine region which sits on the foothills of the Troodos range. This wealthy region is characterised by the white limestone landscape and rather scenic villages. Whilst exploring the vernacular architecture, you should also taste local delicacies like ‘soutzioukos’, a local sweet made of nuts and grape juice. Good villages to visit are: Omodhos, Lofou, Vasa, Vouni, Kilani and Lemithou.
The Troodos mountain range
One of the great things about Cyprus is the big variety in landscape and great range of activities it can offer to visitors. The proximity between the slopes of Troodos and the shores of Limassol means you can spend the morning skiing and by lunchtime you could be having a dip in Limassol before enjoying a meal at a taverna by the old port.
The drive to the peak of Troodos (Mount Olympos, 1952 meters) takes under an hour from Aphrodite Hills. In the summer these beautiful pine and cedar covered mountains offer a refreshing retreat from the heat. If you fancy a bit of exercise, you could explore one of the numerous nature trails. Alternatively you could visit one of the nine Unesco World Heritage sites found around Troodos or even visit one of the most charming villages in Cyprus, Kakopetria.
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