Larnaca

Compared with the hustle and bustle of Limassol, the big-city atmosphere of Nicosia and the beauty and charm of Paphos, Larnaca is often overlooked.

But it would be a mistake to discount Larnaca as it really does have some beautiful places to visit, good beaches and lots of things to do. The first thing you’ll know about Larnaca is that it is where the country’s primary international airport is, and if you’re not on a charter flight, then it’s probably where your holiday begins.

The second thing you’ll notice when you land, is the huge salt lake, which up until the airport got really busy, was a primary source for salt production in the country. Depending on when you land, you’ll also be able to see how much rain Cyprus has had. If it’s quite full of water, then you’re visiting in winter, or we had a good season’s rain. The other reason the salt lake is so important, is that it’s a vital place for migrating birds. If you’re around in the winter months, you’ll be able to see thousand of flamingos, wild swans and other birds making their way south.

One of the most attractive parts of Larnaca though, has to be its palm-lined seafront walkway which is a favourite place for both locals and visitors. Commonly known as “Phinikoudes”, which means Palm Trees in Greek, it’s a great place to have a lovely walk, especially in the warmer months. You can either go in the morning for a brisk  walk, followed by a scrumptious breakfast at one of the many surrounding cafes or restaurants, or you can go for a romantic late afternoon stroll, chased by a refreshing cold drink.

Surrounding the promenade are the Marina and the Fort. While able to berth over four hundred yachts, the marina is not really accessible to anyone other than the owners and crew of the yachts, but the Fort, at the opposite end of the walkway most certainly is. It was built in the 1600’s by the Ottomans and once the British took over, was used as a prison; it’s now used much better as a venue for theatrical and musical events.

For something a little different, head out to the Kalavasos Dam, which is not only a very beautiful and peaceful place, it also allows you to take in some wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. As you drive through the village you’ll be able to see the old abandoned railway and train, a reminder of the copper mines which used to dot Cyprus – in fact, “Cyprus” actually means “Copper” - a reference to ancient times when it was one of the main copper-producing countries in the Eastern Mediterranean. In fact, it’s even said that Cyprus used to supply Ancient Egypt with copper for their pharaohs’ jewels and armour.

And as one of the oldest inhabited places in Cyprus, Larnaca, or Kition, is it used to be known, offers some great tributes and references to its ancient glories as one of the most settled city-kingdoms in ancient times. One of the world’s great philosophers, Zenon, was even born in Kition. But it’s not just about the past; Larnaca is also very much in the present and as one of the more less intense places in Cyprus, quietly gets on with its own business.