Villa Oceania

Villa Oceania enjoys a wonderful rural location in the Peyai Hills above Coral Bay and Paphos. The views are astonishing across the hillside and towards Paphos and the coastline. Just below the villa is the charming village of Peyai with its wonderful array of shops, restaurants and cafes. The village of Kathikas is also close by with its fabulous wineries and its ancient church.

Coral Bay is a lively coastal town with rustic tavernas, friendly bars and a fabulous Blue Flag sandy beach. The beach is backed by limestone cliffs and the turquoise waters are very inviting. There are shuttle buses that run from Coral Bay to the peaceful Potima Bay. Fifteen minutes drive south along the coast and twenty minutes directly from the villa is Paphos. It is a fascinating place with something for everyone. History lovers will enjoy discovering the mosaics that date back 2000 years at the Kato Paphos Archeological Park and the Tomb of the Kings is marvellous. Paphos Castle is a Byzantine building right on the water. The Paphos Archeological Museum is very interesting with artefacts excavated from fifteen sites that tell the story of the island from the Neolithic age. In the evenings, the Old Town comes alive with alfresco dining, buzzy bars and lots of tourists wandering down Agiou Antoniou Street. The market is wonderful and great for picking up little gifts. Paphos’ modern harbour is packed with bars and restaurants. You might like to stop at Aphrodite’s Rock Brewing Company. The west side of the island has been brewing beer for thousands of years. This craft pub and microbrewery was the first on the island using English brewing traditions to create authentic artisan ales. A tour is available on weekdays.  

Lara Beach is within easy reach of Villa Oceania. You will discover soft, golden sand and crystal clear waters though you may need to rent a 4 by 4 car to reach the beach. It is the breeding ground of the endangered Green turtle and Hawk’s Bill turtle. There are three official nature trails through the Akamas peninsula, the Adonis, Aphrodite and Smigies trails. They are interwoven with rocks, gorges and valleys and offer stunning views of the curved coastline, cliffs and boulders.

Polis and its neighbouring harbour village Latchi on Chrysohous Bay are definitely worth a visit. Latchi boasts a string of fine fish restaurants where you will dine in style with panoramic sea views. The Baths of Aphrodite can be found near Latchi. You will discover a natural cavern that features a caved shallow pool surrounded by ferns and a large fig tree. A natural spring supplies the pool water and according to myth, Aphrodite would bathe in the pool and it is where she met her great love, Adonis. The waters are rumoured to hold special rejuvenating powers.

If you decide to head to the Troodos Mountains for a day to escape the heat, in the foothills you can visit the beautiful 12th century Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery. It contains a museum celebrating Byzantine art and there is a beautiful sculpture of the Virgin Mary crafted from pure silver. The monastery enjoys sensational views from the Paphos Forest, gazing out over hillsides covered in cedar and cypress trees. Within the cool forests of the Troodos mountains you will discover some spectacular churches. Ten have been awarded World Heritage Status in recognition of their incredibly detailed and vibrant Byzantine frescoes.

Read more about Paphos

Paphos, a coastal city in the southwest of Cyprus, is a destination steeped in history, culture and natural beauty. Renowned for its archaeological treasures, vibrant atmosphere and stunning landscapes, Paphos offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that cater to all interests.

One of the city's most significant attractions is the Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans over one hundred acres. Visitors can wander through ancient ruins dating back to the Roman period, including well-preserved mosaics depicting scenes from Greek mythology. Paphos Castle, perched on the edge of the harbour, adds a touch of medieval charm to the city's skyline, offering a glimpse into its rich history. For those seeking a cultural experience, the Tombs of the Kings is another archaeological marvel. This necropolis, carved into the rock, served as the final resting place for high-ranking officials and nobles during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The intricate architecture and grandeur of the tombs provide a fascinating insight into the city's past.

Paphos is not just a haven for history enthusiasts. It also offers a vibrant waterfront sprinkled with cafes, restaurants and unique shops. Paphos Harbour is a hub of activity, where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, embark on boat trips or indulge in delicious fresh seafood at the local tavernas.

Families have fun at the Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark, a sprawling attraction featuring thrilling water slides, lazy rivers and dedicated play areas for younger children. The park provides a refreshing escape from the Mediterranean sun and promises a day filled with laughter and excitement for the whole family.

Venturing beyond Paphos, the Akamas Peninsula National Park beckons nature lovers. This protected area boasts diverse landscapes, including rugged cliffs, dense forests and pristine beaches. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bike or even on a boat tour, enjoying the unspoiled beauty of the Mediterranean coast. A short drive leads to the charming village of Kouklia, home to the Sanctuary of Aphrodite. This ancient site, dedicated to the goddess of love and beauty, features the remains of a temple and an archaeological museum. The village itself exudes traditional Cypriot charm, with narrow streets and local artisans showcasing their crafts. Heading eastward, the town of Polis Chrysochous offers a quieter atmosphere and access to the stunning Akamas Peninsula. Here, visitors can explore the Baths of Aphrodite, a legendary spot where, according to mythology, the goddess of love bathed. The surrounding trails and viewpoints provide breathtaking vistas of the rugged coastline. For those interested in a more cosmopolitan experience, the city of Limassol is a bustling hub of modernity. The Limassol Marina, with its luxury yachts, upscale boutiques and waterfront dining, provides a fabulous contrast to Paphos's historical charm.

Paphos is a wonderful destination. Whether exploring ancient ruins, enjoying family-friendly attractions, lazing on the beach or discovering nearby towns and cities, Paphos offers an enriching experience for all who visit.