Famagusta

Although the actual city of Famagusta was a popular destination for tourists in the 1960s, it now remains under Turkish occupation since 1973.

The "free" Famagusta area to the south however has become the main destination for summer holidays due to its extensive sandy beaches and nightlife in the Agia Napa and Protaras areas.

Due to the rich red colour of the soil, this area has always been known as Kokkinohoria (red soil villages). It is an area also renowned for its potatoes and large quantities are exported world wide. They also cultivate tomatoes, cucumbers, watermelons and strawberries.

Landmarks of the area include the fishing harbour and historical Monastery of Agia Napa, scattered small churches in the surrounding villages of Dherynia, Frenaros and Avgorou and Paralimni Town. Visitors around the world come to enjoy the fascinating combination of traditional rural life and all the elements of an established tourist centre in the Paralimni and Ayia Napa areas.

If you are in the mood for a true Cypriot delicacy then simply venture out to any of the surrounding villages where traditional tavernas offer both excellent food and great value for money .Family run taverna are usually located in a traditional property which has been completely restored to its former glory.

The villages of this area are equally renowned for their folk poets and traditional song performers, who are regarded as the most inspired on the island.

AVGOROU VILLAGE

The village of Avgorou combines old Cypriot charm with modern day culture. Vast green fields and beautiful scenery surrounds the area whilst within the village you can find a range of shops and local amenities

Due to its central positioning on the east coast,thisvillage is in an ideal locationwell within reach of the neighboring towns. The beaches of both Ayia Napa and Larnaca are only a 15 minutes drive and Larnaca airport is just 25 minutes away.

Church of St. Peter and Paul

Its double-sided 17^th century icons depicting St John the Divine and St. George.

Ethnographic Museum/Pierides Foundation

Off the beaten track but definitely worth visiting. The building itself is of traditional architecture and it houses a collection of jewellery , woodcarvings, silverware, ceramics, metalware, embroideries woven lace textiles and much more.

DHERYNIA VILLAGE

Dherynia a small, friendly village of timeless age with a rustic centre and many of the original buildings are still in traditional old Cypriot style.

Situated on the outskirts of the town of Paralimni, away from the main tourist area but still only a ten minute drive from the sandy beaches of Protaras and Ayia Napa while the motorway leading to all the other cities is literally around the corner.

Dherynia is fast becoming the hot spot of the east coast and although it is a traditional Cypriot village it has all modern amenities - banks, restaurants, schools, supermarkets, a few classy boutiques and other small shops.

The tavern-style restaurants located in Dherynia do on occasional nights offer live Greek music,and offer a cheaper meze without compromising their quality.

The village is also right next to the city of Famagusta and this makes it a great investment. The return of this beautiful city to its rightful owners is in the foreseeable future and since Dherynia is within a stones throw of Famagusta, the value of properties in the area is expected to substantially increase more than any other location.

Folk Art Museum

This museum is in fact a traditional Cypriot house filled with household items and farming tools from bygone days. The main bedroom is also complete with a traditional wedding bed and lace curtain canopy.

FRENAROS VILLAGE

Frenaros, a traditional Cypriot village with its inherent charm and hospitality is where you can mix with the locals and enjoy the traditional local tavernas that have been in the same families for generations and yet, you are less than fifteen minutes from the town of Paralimni and Agia Napa and all the beautiful beaches you could wish for.

The village has its own small Byzantine churches, Ayios Andronikos and the Archangelos Michail WHICH date back to the 12th century. The church of Ayia Marina has some interesting frescoes painted by different artists.

All amenities are found all within the village center.

LIOPETRI VILLAGE

One of the best acclaimed seaside fish tavernas can be found here in Liopetri. The simple décor of most of the tavernas should not be misleading as the food is excellent and the owners most welcoming.

Traditional basket weaving is carried on in Liopetri.

Achna Dam offers a rare glimpse on migratory birds such as the Glossy Ibis in March/April and October.

Potamos Liopetiou is a photogenic inlet where fishermen mend their nets by day, before setting sail in the evening.

VRYSOULLES VILLAGE

Vrysoulles is located 10km away from the town of Paralimni and 5km from the occupied town of Famagusta. It offers amenities of a small village that include supermarkets, restaurants, pubs and schools.

A well know secret amongst the locals are the excellent restaurants. First-rate food, service with a smile and outstanding prices.

The village is quiet and is really for people who are looking to retire in a peaceful environment.