Children’s Activities
Due to Cyprus’ location at the crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe,
the island has attracted tourists for thousands of years. With so many
fascinating and fun places to see and visit, children will never forget their
trip to Cyprus.
 Aphrodite Water Park
This famous water park in Paphos attracts in excess of 100,000 visitors every
year and is growing in popularity. Many attractions and facilities can be found
here including numerous water slides, swimming pools, eateries, sun beds and
changing facilities with lockers. It is the perfect place for kids to release
some energy and whether you are young, old, can swim or not, there will be
something to entertain you. A visit here is an ideal way to cool down during one
of the island’s very hot summer days. For more information, visit:
www.aphroditewaterpark.com
 Bird Park
This is a very exciting and educational park, home to many tropical birds
including parrots, eagles, ostriches and flamingos. Educational talks on world
birds are often held here as well as daily parrot and owl shows. Other animals
can also be found here including crocodiles, snakes rabbits, chickens and
donkeys. There is an on-site vet to look after the animals and it is possible to
adopt an animal, which helps to fund the park. The park is also home to a snack
bar, gift shop and an art gallery. For more information, telephone: +357 26 813
852
Coral Bay Karting
This go-karting track in Paphos is a fun day out for all members of the family.
There are activities for all ages including the 500 metre circuit, kid’s
go-karts, a games centre and a children’s playground. If you want to eat lunch
here, there is a snack bar serving a range of hot and cold snacks, and a smaller
kiosk serving food. For more information, call: +357 29 445 001.
 Cyprus Donkey Sanctuary
The Lemesos sanctuary is run by a British couple who have dedicated their lives
to working and caring for donkeys. Donkeys are very gentle and any child will be
very excited at the prospect of feeding them carrots. Carrots need to be bought
at the sanctuary, but all profits go towards the donkeys’ upkeep. For more
information telephone: +357 2594 2623
Ocean Aquarium
This is an experience that everyone can enjoy. Ocean Aquarium in Ayia Napa
offers a journey through rivers, lakes and oceans found throughout the world.
Over 400 different species of sea life can be seen here including sharks, eels
and beautiful coral reefs.
Crocodiles can be found basking in the swamps outside, while penguins can be
found in their own house having fun in Antarctic temperatures. There are
beautiful gardens surrounding the park as well as ponds filled with fish,
turtles and ducks. For more information telephone: +357 23 741 111.
Activities and Sports
Cyprus is not renowned for its outdoor activities or sports, but there is plenty
of opportunity to partake in many pursuits. Winter sports are on the
rise in Cyprus and it is becoming increasingly popular with skiers
looking for a winter break. There are also ample nature trails and treks as well
as water sports, fishing and climbing.
Rock Climbing
Much of the coastline around Cape Gkreko is surrounded by rocky coves, which are
perfect for adventurous rock climbers. It is vital to always use proper safety
equipment and to contact the rock climbing club on: +357 22 441 366.
Hiking and Trekking
Hiking and trekking throughout Cyprus is very popular with visitors. There are
many unspoilt national parks and nature trails that are ideal for exploring. The
Troodos Mountains offer spectacular scenery, views and trails including the
Atalante, Kaledonia and Persephone trails. The Akamas area offers a number of
walking trails such as Aphrodite and Adonis, while many other stunning trails
can be found in the forests of Machairas and Limassol.
Visit this website for further information about
hiking and trekking in Cyprus.
 Water Sports
There are an abundance of opportunities for water sports while in Cyprus.
Windsurfing, paragliding and swimming are all popular pastimes among both locals
and tourists, while courses are available for kite-surfing, which is increasing
in popularity here. The golden beaches and crystal clear waters are perfect for
water sports and for relaxing afterwards. Recommended beaches include Geroskipou,
Dasoudi in Larnaca and Dassoudi and Germasogeia in Limassol.
 Winter Sports
Cyprus is establishing itself as a winter sports destination, with Mount Olympus
and Troodos providing ideal locations and weather for skiing. Many hotels and
tour operators offer off-peak incentives for those travelling in winter.
Tourists are accepted at both locations as temporary members and have the option
of hiring ski equipment.
Dining
Like everything else in Cyprus, food reflects the divide between north and
south. In the north, you’ll find mostly Turkish cuisine; while
in the south, you’ll find mostly Greek food. The whole of the
island however offers delicious fruit, mezze (variety of tapas-like
small plates) and kleftiko (very slow cooked tender lamb dish).
Major resorts provide restaurants offering cuisine from throughout the world.
There are no licensing hours in Cyprus, so evening meals out
can carry on late into the night. The Cypriots love to eat and evening meals are
the highlight of the day for many. People often dine with their
family, all gathering around the table to enjoy traditional mezze and indulge in
some wine drinking, which is often homemade. Local Cypriots do not tend to put
as much emphasis on breakfast and lunch as they do on dinner, apart from during
public holidays, when feasting is common.
Food is good value for money, especially local cuisine,
although in the big resorts, restaurants tend to charge more. For real
authentic Cypriot food at a very low rate, it is best to head away from
the main towns and cities into the rural areas of the island. A service charge
is added to all bills, but tipping is still appreciated and is left to your
discretion.
Traditional Cypriot food specialities include: tava, a
tasty stew of meat, herbs and onions; dolmades, vine
leaves stuffed with mince and rice; kebabs; stifado, a beef stew cooked
with wine, vinegar, onions and spices; kleftiko, and loukoumadesi, Cyprus
doughnuts served with syrup. Southern cooking is very similar to Greek
cooking, using lemons and olives, whereas the northern style resembles
Turkish cuisine.
Visit this website for further information about
food and drink in Cyprus.
Shopping
Cyprus is a fantastic place to spend your hard-earned money. Across the island,
you will find fantastic gift shops, exquisite jewellers and
beautiful lace shops. The lace here is all handmade and although it may be more
expensive in the resort areas of the island, it is still very good value for
money.
The art of jewellery making dates back to ancient times in Cyprus. You will find
a mix of contemporary and traditional styles on sale, although for authentic
pieces, you will have to travel to areas that aren’t so popular with tourists.
Most of the jewellery here is unique and makes for a great gift, or
alternatively you can splash out and treat yourself. Prices usually reflect the
quality.
Silver spoons and forks are a traditional gift of Cypriot
hospitality and are a lovely souvenir, as are local wines and brandies.
The most popular areas for tourists also offer the most opportunities for
shopping. You will find numerous gift shops, boutiques and handicrafts
shops spread throughout Paphos, Ayia Napa and Limassol.
Visit this website for further information about
shopping in Cyprus.
Shops are usually closed on Wednesdays and Sundays. Opening
hours for all other days are from 08:00 to 13:00 and 16:00 to 19:30 in the
summer and from 08:00 to 13:00 and 14:30 to 18:00 in the winter.
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