Ayia Napa
Take a trip along the East Coast of Cyprus and you’ll find holiday options awaiting you that will suit every taste. Like many other parts of the island, this stretch of coastline offers a mix of fine beaches, and historical sites, and one resort that’s famous throughout the world: Ayia Napa was named after a 16th monastery located in its centre, and was once nothing more than a quiet fishing village. The Ayia Napa of today, is one of the clubbing capitals of the world, attracting a host of sun seeking party animals every year, to its array of sandy daytime haunts, and vast collection of pubs, clubs, and bars.
Ayia Napa is said to offer some of the best sandy beaches and clear waters in Cyprus, so it’s no surprise they get very busy during peak season, so nearby Cape Greco is also an option for sun seekers, and those who want to get back to nature, as it’s also a national park, packed full of flora, fauna, and hiking/cycling trails. For those looking for more adventurous activities Ayia Napa is home to the Waterworld Water Park, Adrenaline Park, with its white knuckle rollercoasters, and Parko Paliatso, which is suitable for younger children.
Along with the 16th Century Monastery from which Ayia Napa takes its name, other historical treasures are on display in one of the town’s several museums. There’s the Pierides Museum of Marine Life, a unique attraction for Cyprus, a Folk Art Museum, and Thalassa Museum, dedicated to Sea History. The Cypriot culture is also celebrated every September through an international festival of music, exhibitions, and folk shows, held at the town’s monastery.
Eating, drinking, and shopping are also well catered for in Ayia Napa, and although not as high on Cypriot tradition as some resorts, there are places you can experience traditional food and drink, especially ‘Meze’, a mix of small dishes, and seafood, which comes in fresh from the pretty harbour. There’s also a heady mix of English specialities, fast food outlets, and shops stocking souvenirs, jewellery, and cheap electrical goods.
Day moves swiftly into night in Ayia Napa, and, as it’s the party capital of the island, it’s not the place to be if you want a quiet night out! Top name DJ’s and Promoters regularly host club nights here during the season, and there’s a vast choice of bars and clubs for you to dance the night away in. They include The Play Club, Castle Club, Club Piazza, and The Guru Club.
When it comes to choosing a base from which to explore all the above attractions, there’s a choice of beachfront hotels in the resort centre, or some in quieter locations, around a 20 minute walk from the action. Transfers to these from the airport are around 1 hour. Flights from the UK will land at Larnaca Airport, and take around 4 hours 30 minutes. Easy access then, to a destination where you can chill by day, and party by night, but is it your ideal place for a holiday?
