Peyia

General Visiting

View across part of PeyiaI will never forget my first trip to Cyprus. I flew into Paphos and as I stepped outside of the airport, luggage in hand, the first thing that caught my eyes as the bright sunshine beamed down on me, was the sparking blue Mediterranean Sea. I knew immediately that this was going to be a trip that I would never forget.

Peyia Village

We had hired a car and it was just a 30 minute drive to our accommodation in the Cypriot village of Peyia. We had decided to stay in Peyia because of its location. It was ideal for us with Paphos and the lively resort of Coral Bay nearby but it also had the benefit of being in a friendly village environment.

Coral Bay BeachPeyia is surrounded by stunning scenery with the mountain Ayios Yeoyios acting as an impressive backdrop to the village. The mountain is in the most Southern part of the Akamas Peninsula. Staying in Peyia really made us feel like we had the best of both worlds, nature and nightlife.

The village itself has a few convenient facilities and amenities including bakeries, butchers, supermarkets, banks and a chemist. There are also some fantastic taverns, restaurants and cafes, some of which can be found around the pretty village square with its stone pavements and picturesque fountains. The restaurants and taverns are really fantastic. We sampled the Cyprus Meze on many occasions and enjoyed a Mexican themed night at Sophie's family run restaurant. There's plenty of variety to suit all tastes.

Coral Bay CoastlinePeyia has many modern facilities including wireless Internet access in some of its restaurants and bars however there is no denying the history of the area. On the outskirts of the village there are the renowned ruins of two Christian basilicas with fascinating mosaic floors which date back hundreds of years.

The village itself had some wonderful traditions including the 'Peyia Vrisi' (the village spring). This is where the Peyia villagers used to gather at the spring water. The village girls would collect the water using their red clay pitchers and the local men would meet to watch them. It was said that the drinking of the spring water made the girls beautiful. The vrisi is often visited by newlyweds today making Peyia an ideal destination for weddings.

Peyia Gardens

Peyia GardensWe were lucky enough to stay in a luxurious two bedroom cottage on a small resort called Peyia Gardens. We stayed in cottage B2 which was just perfect for us.

There is something really special about a self-catering holiday especially if you like your independence and you are as lucky as we were to stay in a house that was extremely comfortable with modern amenities.

The main bedroom has a balcony overlooking one of the two swimming pools on the resort. The house was next to the smaller pool, which added an element of privacy, but the main pool was still easily accessible.

Fortunately the house was air-conditioned which is vital in the summer months of Cyprus when temperatures can often reach into the 30s°c. The private garden terrace led out onto the communal gardens and the swimming pool. We spent many an evening on the terrace sampling the local wines and enjoying the warmth and atmosphere of a Cypriot night.

Peyia Gardens is in such an ideal location, with the Akamas Peninsula behind the resort and a view out towards the sea to the front. I will certainly be staying here again.

Coral Bay

Coral Bay was either a short drive away or long walk away from where we were staying. Taxis are readily available so even though we hired a car we were all able to sample the local drinks on our evenings out here whilst soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

We also enjoyed many days relaxing and playing on Coral Bay Beach which has been described as the most popular beach in the West of Cyprus and has been awarded a European Blue Flag.

The soft sands and sheltered clear blue seas are ideal for families and sun lovers alike. You can also enjoy the many activities that can be found on the beach from jet skis and windsurfing to pedalos and banana boats.

Things to do in and around Peyia

There's a variety of attractions and activities just a short drive from Peyia. These include:

Agios Georgios. The ancient Christian Basilicas, which date back to the 6^th century.

Avakas Gorge. Located in the Akamas Peninsula this gorge is ideal for walkers and offers fantastic plant life and breathtaking views. The gorge was formed thousands of years ago and is made out of limestone. It is approximately 3 kilometers long, reaches up to 30 meters in height and can be slippery in some parts.

Aphrodite Water Park. Is fabulous fun for all ages with many water rides and attractions including the family rafting, the relaxing lazy river and the thrilling black hole chute.

Viklari (The Last Castle). This seasonal restaurant is well worth a visit for both its ambiance and spectacular views. The restaurant is located on the remains of an old castle and is well known for its simple but delicious menu of barbecued chicken and pork and the locally produced wine. A wonderful place but please note it may not be suitable for vegetarians.

Coral Bay Karting. Great fun for the family. Adult and child karts available with a specially designed 2 seater kart for 1 adult and 1 child.

Maninji Island. Popular dive site. Beautiful scenery, cliffs, caves and corals.

Minthis Hills Golf Club, Tsada. Superb 18 hole golf course in an excellent location and benefiting from fabulous views. Superb facilities including the clubhouse restaurant and bar, changing rooms, tennis court, pro shop, driving range, putting green and PGA pro instructor.

Of course there are many other things to do in the surrounding area of Peyia. A hike or a jeep safari, a boat trip from Paphos harbor or visit the many fascinating archaeological sites nearby such as the Tomb of the Kings.