Pafos is located on the southwest coast of the island and is sheltered from the north by the Troodos mountains. It has a temperate climate, one of the healthiest in the Mediterranean. Beautiful countryside, a cosmopolitan resort, historical sights as well as sporting activities, the Pafos region has something for everyone at any time of year. Pafos, with its pleasant harbour and medieval fort, combines a dynamic holiday resort with spectacular countryside, unspoiled nature and sensational history. The region offers the possibility of enjoying both sea and mountains, as well as getting a taste of the island’s culture with its many archaeological sites. Feel the romance floating through the air in the place where Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty, once roamed. Swim in the sea by the rocks known as Petra tou Romiou, where she was believed to have risen from the waves, make a pilgrimage to her sanctuary at Kouklia, or visit the grotto near Polis where she supposedly bathed. Whatever you desire: activity, tranquillity, good food, fine wine, spas, nature, bird watching, scenic walks, golf, culture — the Pafos region offers it all.

The “Grand House” of El Castell de Guadalest or “Casa Orduña” was built after the great earthquake of 1644, which devastated the region and demolished the buttress of the castle. It was built by the Orduñas, a family of Basque lineage. They came to the kingdom of Valencia with the Infante Fortuna de Navarra; they later went into the service of the Cardonas, admirals of Aragón. D. Sancho de Cardona received the title of Marques of Guadalest in 1543. As the family enjoyed the complete confidence of the marqueses, they were sent to Guadalest and served as guardians of the fortress and governors of the estate for almost three hundred years.

Perhaps the area's most important archaeological site, the Ambrosio Cave contains drawings that date back two millennia, and is a curious attraction for those not threatened by its murky insides (inhabited by dozens of bats and various eerie cavernous creatures).