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 Beaches, great food, nature and culture – the perfect family holiday destination
Local Knowledge
Maria Anastasi Editor, The Art of Living
The monastery of Ayia Napa is thought to have been built around the 15th century. The first thing to do when visiting this great place is to step inside the courtyard and pleasantly lose yourself within the serenity of the building. It’s a world away from Ayia Napa, the loud party town down the road.
Top Tables
Milijis
Milijis is a traditional Larnaca taverna serving classic Greek-Cypriot cuisine. The owners have been in the business since 1932 and are known for delectable dishes cooked in their wood-fire oven. A perfect introduction to the many joys of local food. 42 Pigiale Pasa Avenue, Larnaca, +357 24 655 867
Moti Mahal
It’s not hard to find a decent fish restaurant or traditional taverna in Larnaca, but finding authentic Indian is next to impossible, which is why stylish Moti Mahal is justifiably popular. If the traditional Indian dishes (and some creative variations) don’t appeal or if you’re not starving, opt for a platter of appetisers, or simply a drink on the sunny terrace. 52 Phinikoudes Promenade, Larnaca seafront, +357 70 004 484
Zanetto’s
Without a recommendation you’d walk right by this traditional eatery in Nicosia’s old town, and without a reservation you’d find yourself waiting for a while. While the ramshackle exterior and seemingly tiny interior are off-putting, once inside you’ll be pleased to see the crammed room opens onto large buzzy dining rooms, crammed with locals and friendly waiters delivering the tastiest mezedhes in Cyprus. 65 Trikoupi Street, Nicosia Old Town, +357 22 765 501
Suitcase Fillers
Cyprus Handicraft Centre
This handicrafts centre is the best place to buy traditional souvenirs. The quality of workmanship is superb; you’re assured it’s an original handmade item and not a cheap rip-off. Expect everything from exquisite Lefkara lace and embroidery, and traditional Lefkoniko woven textiles, to pottery, ceramics and carved wood. 25 Themidos Street, Limassol, +357 25 305 118
At Your Leisure
Pierides Foundation Museum
This impressive display of archaeological finds, Byzantine treasures and traditional costumes, jewellery, crafts and weapons was once the private collection of the Pierides family, who started collecting these wonderful things to prevent them from being removed from the country. The museum is situated in their former Larnaca home, an elegant colonial-era building. 4 Zinonos Kitieos Street, Larnaca, +357 24 814 555
Don’t Miss This
Cyprus 4-Day Challenge
Need a workout? The Cyprus 4-Day Challenge packs four gruelling road races into four days and is one of the most popular running events in Europe. It comprises a 6km time trial, an 11km mountain run, a cross-country half-marathon, a 10km run in Paphos and a well-deserved party on the last night. www.cypruschallenge.com
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