Once sleepy fishing villages, the fabulous beaches of fine white sand of Agia Napa and Protaras, and the coastal area of Paralimni with its hundreds of windmills, nowadays buzz with life. This area is known collectively as the Kokkinochoria, “red soil villages,” because of the rich red earth in which Cyprus’ famous potatoes are grown. Culture lovers can explore the medieval churches found in villages like Sotira or go around the folk art museums displaying rural artefacts in Deryneia and Avgorou. Children will love the Marine Life museum or the new Sea Museum, “Thalassa”, in Agia Napa, which has an amazing replica of a 4th-century trading ship which sank off the coast of Kyrenia. Or you could stop at the tiny estuary known by the locals as Potamos and watch the fishing boats haul in their catch in their multi-coloured baskets. Spend the day sunbathing at the beach, swimming in warm turquoise waters or taking a short cruise along the coast. Some of the best snorkelling and diving spots are at Cape Greco, the national forest park, with its secluded coves and rocky outcrops, impressive cliff-top views and sea caves. In the evening, dine at one of the many restaurants, especially the local ones in Paralimni, or jive to the latest sounds at one of the numerous nightclubs.

The Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath art gallery is a perfect destination for an afternoon of culture. Here you will find an eclectic collection of Indian and international contemporary art alongside lavish gold-leaf works, Mysore-style paintings and folk and tribal art from across the subcontinent. Do not miss the galleries devoted to the Russian master Nicholas Roerich and his beautiful paintings of the Himalayas.

With its gardens, natural greenery and views of the bay, the exceptionally long Promenade du Clair de Lune offers one of the finest coastal walks for visitors to Dinard. Parts of the promenade are set directly on the cliff rocks (the promenade itself is completely secure).

This beautiful villa, built in neoclassical style between 1893 and 1896, is open to the public via guided tours. It houses different exhibitions and from its location on the edge of a cliff, it offers breathtaking views of the bay from its peaceful terrace.