Cyprus activities

Passed over by golfers a few years ago, Cyprus is fast becoming a popular golfing spot, largely due to recent development and its superb year-round climate. If you're keen to experiment or enjoy a few rounds, there are three stupendous, world-class courses on the island, all within easy reach of Paphos. The newest is Aphrodite Hills, a glorious 18-hole course and academy, spread out on two plateaus above the Mediterranean. Just north of Paphos is the island's oldest course, the 18-hole Tsada, set amid the grounds of a monastery and to the east of the city, is the prestigious 18-hole Secret Valley Club, located in a lush green valley. Guests are recommended to hire a car.

Twitchers will love Cyprus! Located on a migration route between Europe and Africa, the island attracts large numbers of travelling birds - about 200 different species - and is home to a vast array of resident birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The pine-clad Troodos mountains are home to Griffon vultures, whilst the island's salt lakes, which fill in winter, play host to over 10,000 pink flamingoes, making for a spectacular sight. Cyprus also boasts two homegrown species, the Cyprus Pied Wheatear and the Cyprus Warbler. Between April and September you may be lucky enough to spot such beautiful species as the colourful bee-eater and golden oriole. Take your binoculars!

Whether you're a beginner or expert, Cyprus is a wonderful place to dive, thanks to its warm seas and the surprising underwater world hidden around its coast. What's more, the waters are transparent, so you'll see everything in larger-than-life clarity and colour. All the main resorts have clubs offering PADI diving courses and equipment rental to get you started, and once you're out there, there's the chance to view an amazing diversity of marine life, from bright, soft coral to turtles, stingray, tuna and barracuda. More advanced divers will love the many caves, rock walls and tunnels, and the opportunity to explore the famous wreck of the Zenophobia, a huge ferry that sank off Ayia Napa.