Aaahhh, Cyprus. Your warm weather, fantastic beaches, and luscious waters draw us in. Your long history, incredible food, and amazing colors keep us happy. Alas, your crowds tend to make us rethink heading there. But recently I heard about some secrets you’ve been keeping from travelers. And I’m about to spill on 5 of these off the beaten path gems – so get ready!

Small villages. Latchi is a small fishing village that boasts a beautiful marina, delicious seafood, and amazing views of the countryside. However, you can get this from any number of private villas in Cyprus, in small towns. It’s worth it to slow down, relax, and enjoy yourself.

photo: Glen Bowman

A little mythology (and a waterfall). Imagine yourself in history as Aphrodite, bathing in a gorgeous pool and waterfall with your love Adonis (sigh). Fast forward to today – alas, no Adonis or Aphrodite, but you CAN splash in the Adonis Baths and Waterfalls in Paphos. Look for a sign that says, “Ladies infertile who wish to become pregnant touch Adonis’s appendage and have many children thereafter.”  While you’re in Paphos, check out the Roman Mosaics.

Mosaics, Paphos. Photo: Institute for the Study of the Ancient World

A National Park. Either Akamas National Park or Greko National Park, to be specific… in Greko, you can take a nature trail entitled Aphrodite’s cultural route. Should we even ask? At Akamas, there is much to see – such natural beauty, incredible scenery, and rugged terrain. Take a look…

See the ruins in Kourion. Near Episkopi, you can see quite extensive ruins (including beautiful mosaics!). There are public baths, a temple of Apollo, a necropolis, the House of Gladiators, the House of Achilles, and a huge forum that has been restored. You can attend the International Festival of Ancient Greek Drama there!

Photo: Glen Bowman

Wineries. Did you know that there are (yes, count them) 6 wine routes in Cyprus – and over 40 boutique wineries? AH. Yes. My kind of trip…

Photo: Leonid Mamchenkov

What are your favorite places to visit in Cyprus? Please share!