Polis Chrysochous, Cyprus

The peaceful town of Polis is close to the stunning unspoilt Akamas National Forest Park; an idyllic natural haven that lures swimmers, cyclists, and hikers. Also ideal for birdwatchers and anyone who loves time out in nature, you’ll find plenty of nature trails to explore here including the Adonis trail, Aphrodite trail, Pissouromoutti trail, Smigies trail and the breathtaking Avakas Gorge. And when you need to cool down, there is no better place to take a dip than the pristine waters of Lara Beach.

This gorge within the Akamas National Forest Park was created thousands of years ago by the constant erosive activity of the Avgas River. Considered one of nature’s masterpieces, take a walk through the 1.2km trail, and you’ll be mesmerised by the views and the craggy slopping limestone rocks.

Look out for the centauria akamantis, a flowering plant only found in Cyprus that blossoms in spring. The area is also rich in wildlife and you can often spot foxes, rabbits, owls, hawks, butterflies, and many reptiles. Just be sure to take appropriate hiking equipment with you, as the ground here is uneven. And it’s best not to walk through the area in the midday heat. Instead, enjoy the magic in the late afternoon or early morning when the light piercing through the gorge is simply magical.

This 7.5km trail is one of the most beautiful routes in the Paphos region, with outstanding viewpoints, starting at the Baths of Aphrodite. It’s not an easy trail to walk through, with rugged terrain and sudden changes in gradient. But if you’re fit, the experience will be one you’ll remember forever.

Visit Latchi to devoir a fresh fish feast at one of the many fish taverns and restaurants surrounding the picturesque port. Or make a splash in the crystal-clear waters and enjoy an adventure out at sea.

The Baths of Aphrodite is one of Cyprus' most famous places of interest. Located at the edge of the Akamas National Forest Park, the small natural cave and rock pool is where Aphrodite once bathed and where she is said to have met her lover, the charming Adonis. Interestingly, the water here is believed to have rejuvenating qualities.

If you’re interested in the Byzantine history of Cyprus, pop into the quaint little Church of Ayios Andronikos, near the main traditional square of Polis. The church features unique wall-paintings that date from the 16th century. Take note that the church once served as a Mosque, when the island was under Ottoman occupation.

The path is one of the most beautiful routes one can visit in the area of Paphos. It is circular and the starting point is at Baths of Aphrodite. The length of the path is 7.5 km with an estimated duration of 3-4 hours.

This path has a high degree of difficulty (level of difficulty is 3). The route has difficult terrain with sudden changes in gradient (uphill and/or downhill), course along particularly rough and/or slippery, and/or narrow, and/or steep terrain. It is suitable for adults in generally good to very good state of fitness.

Ancient ruins which are believed to have belonged to a medieval monastery. It is worth mentioning the huge centuries-old oak tree which can be seen at the picnic site, where drinking water is also available.

The trail follows a rising path to the hill known as Moutti tis Sotiras (370m) and offers breathtaking views along the way.

A wonderful picnic site, with an altitude of 200 meters and a capacity of 500 persons. The Nature Trail and Picnic area Smiyies has an altitude of 200 meters and a maximum capacity of 500 persons. It is situated in Polis Chrysochous – Neo Chorio – Akamas road, 7 km from Polis and 2 km from Neo Chorio next to the dirt road leading to Akamas forest.

Have a look at the treasures of the museum and follow the historical development of the area from the Neolithic and Chalcolithic periods to the Medieval period.

If you are interested in the Byzantine history of Cyprus you can drop by the Church of Ayios Andronikos, near the traditional square of Polis. The church has unique wall-paintings which date from the 16th Century. When the island was under Ottoman occupation the Church served as a Mosque.