Fly from Nice to Larnaca

Cyprus is a land of culture. Or rather, cultures, because its local history was written by the Greeks, the Romans, the Venetians... as well as the Phoenicians and the Ottomans. That explains the wide variety - in Larnaca and many other places - of columns, bell towers, minarets and fortified towers that offer some memorable outings.

But its rich heritage is not the island’s only attraction - far from it! It has another, equally enticing treasure up its sleeve: nature! Luscious and abundant, Cyprus delights its visitors with vast beaches and crystal-clear waters, stunning, sun-drenched landscapes and long hikes through green mountains.

These life-affirming moments, to be experienced as a couple, with family or friends, merge into other memories after sunset, when you make your way to a taverna or souvlatzidiko, the typical local bistro. As your stomach rumbles invitingly after a beautiful day spent outdoors, share local fruit and seafood, allow yourself to be tempted by down-to-earth, deliciously flavoured dishes with Greek, Italian and Lebanese influences. Here, simplicity nourishes contentment!

• Take advantage of the gentle winter sunshine, the balmy spring evenings or the fresh summer nights to stroll along the seafront, between Larnaca marina and the Ottoman fort. Take a break on the terrace of a local taverna, to enjoy a drink by the sea. Relaxation at its finest!
• Get reacquainted with a well-known biblical figure: Lazarus, who was raised from the dead, was the first bishop of Larnaca. The tomb of this faithful follower of Jesus (empty of the Saint’s remains) lies under the Church of Saint Lazarus, which has presided over the old city for more than a thousand years.
• Visit the Umm Haram sanctuary (Hala Sultan, in Turkish). This majestic site boasts a mosque and a minaret overlooking Larnaca Salt Lake. It is also acknowledged as a holy site for Muslims, because it houses the tomb of Umm Haram, maternal aunt and early follower of the Prophet Mohammed.
• Admire the pink flamingoes which, from November to March, strut around Larnaca Salt Lake. This Natura 2000 site is crossed by a four-kilometre walking trail, offering an exceptional hike through local fauna.
• Travel through history by stopping off at several key sites. First stop: the Pierides Museum, an impressive private museum with a vast collection stretching from Paleolithic times to the Venetian rule. Next, head for the Archaeological Museum of Larnaca District, which is just as enriching as its privately-owned counterpart. Explore the vestiges of Kiton, the city’s ancestor (a site which is better suited to passionate archaeologists, given its poorly preserved state).
• Walk along Mackenzie beach, one of Cyprus’ finest, with its one-kilometre stretch of fine sand. In the summer season, dive and swim in its shallow waters. When the air gets a little cooler, take a stroll along the shore, admiring the efforts of the many kitesurfers who head there.
• Hire a car to drive out to Cape Greco, the easternmost point of the European Union. Beyond that status, it is a magical spot, with its marine caves and cliffs shaped by a crystal-clear sea. Hikes and unforgettable sunsets guaranteed.
• Treat yourself to a day trip to Limassol, one of the most popular destinations among tourists who come to Cyprus. Meander through its craft markets, visit its Medieval castle and the interesting little museum it houses. Discover the ancient remains of Kourion, the most impressive on the island.
• Once you’ve reached Limassol, it’s only a short journey to Pétra tou Romioú, or Aphrodite's Rock, the birthplace of the goddess of love. If the sea is calm, why not swim out to this large rock? Well worth the effort, since according to legend, swimmers will be blessed with eternal youth!
• Stop off at a Cypriot vineyard or, at the very least, make sure you taste the island’s wines. What’s the star product? Commandaria, a sweet dessert wine that dates back to ancient times, making it the world’s oldest named wine!