For British travellers dreaming of escaping the chilly, damp winter weather, a Mediterranean paradise offering 22-degree warmth and English-speaking convenience is merely a four-and-a-half hour flight from London.
A Winter Sun Paradise
Cyprus emerges as the ideal winter destination, boasting year-round sunshine that sees flowers beginning to bloom as early as March. With fewer tourists during the winter months, visitors can explore popular attractions without facing the long queues that characterise the peak summer season.
The island caters perfectly to families, offering numerous family-friendly hotels and a diverse range of activities from scenic hiking trails to fascinating cultural and historical sites.
From Party Beaches to Mountain Peaks
For those seeking vibrant nightlife, Ayia Napa stands as one of Europe's premier party hotspots. Meanwhile, relaxation seekers can bask in the island's impressive 300 days of annual sunshine.
Venturing inland reveals the stunning Troodos Mountains, where breathtaking scenery unfolds and charming villages like Omodos nestle in the valleys below. This picturesque village offers traditional restaurants perfect for refuelling after mountain trekking, plus a monastery welcoming visitors for tours.
In an unexpected twist for a Mediterranean island, Cyprus features a ski resort in the Troodos Mountain Range. Situated on Mount Olympus and operating from January to March, holidaymakers can drive directly to the slopes, enjoying several picturesque viewpoints along the journey.
Cultural Treasures and Unique Experiences
Don't miss exploring Nicosia, Cyprus's divided capital. Following the 1974 civil war, the island split into two states: the Greek Republic of Southern Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The border, known as the 'green line', runs directly through Nicosia, making it the world's only divided capital city. Tourists can cross the border at several designated points.
Local producers in the Troodos region offer commandaria, a fortified sweet wine that's a regional favourite, available directly from locals' doorsteps for just €2-€5 (£1.61-£4.23).
Additional must-see attractions include underwater waterfall hikes, turtle conservation stations, the legendary Aphrodite's Rock, the ancient Tombs of the Kings, spectacular snorkelling adventures, Akamas Peninsula National Park, historic castles and rejuvenating wellness retreats.
