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 sunk 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.

Located right next to the Cabrillo National Monument, this historic lighthouse sits atop a hill that offers incredible views of the various areas around San Diego Bay. It no longer operates as a lighthouse but is open to the public as a museum.

If you want to keep busy during your holiday, Hamilton Island Water Sports offer a selection of fun activities like fishing, snorkelling, parasailing, tube rides, speed boat adventures, water-skiing and wakeboarding.

Hala Sultan Tekke, situated on the west bank of the Larnaca Salt Lake, about 6 km southwest of Larnaca, is a mosque and tekke complex that holds significant importance in Islam. The mosque was built just before 1787, and its current structure was completed in 1816. The complex is set amidst a beautiful garden and stands as a symbol of tranquillity. Ranked as the fourth most important holy place of worship in the religion, the mosque is built over the tomb of Umm Haram, the foster-mother of the Prophet Mohammed and wife of Ubada bin al-Samit, a high-ranking officer who led raids against Cyprus in the 7th century. While visiting the mosque, take the opportunity to explore the picturesque Larnaca Salt Lake, located just a short five-minute walk away.