10 Hidden Gems To Uncover In West Cyprus

Famed for its wild and rocky coastline, the quiet and idyllic west coast of Cyprus isn’t just about seaside lazing. Peel yourselves away from the sun loungers and discover the best of rural Cyprus, from awe-inspiring religious landmarks to traditional villages home to generations of wine makers.

Evretou village

Leave the west coast hubs of Polis Chrysochous and Latchi and head towards the village of Evretou, home to the third largest dam on the island which many mistake for a lake. If you explore the surrounding countryside, you’ll come across the pretty, medieval Skarfos Bridge, built by Venetians in 1618 next to an old water mill.
Paphos District of Cyprus, located six km southwest of Lysos

Val’s Place, Gialia Village

For a magical sunset view with a cocktail, look no further than Val’s Place in the village of Gialia. With unobstructed views across the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea, this hippie haven is big on homegrown produce and all things organic. Try one of their delicious homemade smoothies, the spoon sweets (fruits soaked in syrup) and the cheese and charcuterie platters.
8875, Gialia, Polis, Paphos, Cyprus

1. Ditzimin Museum, Droushia

Museum

If you want to understand local life and traditions, then be sure to add this weird and wonderful place to your Cyprus bucket list. This quirky museum dedicated to ‘Droushia’s life and culture’ contains many silk and cotton fabrics, traditional costumes, handmade baskets, old tools, antique furniture and tools for bread-making.
Opening hours: 9am–6pm.

Vasilikon Winery, Kathikas village

Located on the breezy slopes of the Troodos Mountains, the Vasilikon Winery is a fantastic place to sample some of the island’s best red, white and rosé, with grapes picked from the family vineyards. There’s also a little museum that sheds light on Cyprus’ rich winemaking history which dates back almost 6000 years. Vouni Panayia is also a treat to visit, with many indigenous wines, including whites: Xynisteri, Promara and Spourtiko and reds: Maratheftiko, Yiannoudi and Ntopio Mavro.
Vasilikon Winery, Kathikas village, Cyprus, (+357) 26 633500
Vouni Panayia Winery, Pano Panayia village, Cyprus, (+357) 26 722770

Avakas Gorge, Akamas Peninsula

While most locals know about the Avakas Gorge, only the most adventurous take the time to explore this stunning natural wonder on foot. Hidden deep in the Akamas Peninsula Nature Reserve, this magnificent limestone gorge rises to a height of 30 metres (98 feet). The reserve is home to a whopping 530 indigenous plants, including 35 rare species so keep your eyes peeled for wild flowers and herbs as you explore.
Avakas Gorge Rd, Peyia, Cyprus

Where to stay?

If you want to enjoy a holiday in pure style on the west coast, the five-star Anassa Hotel is famed for its dreamy and unique hillside location. Just five minutes from the little fishing village of Latchi, the secluded resort lies on landscaped gardens dotted with local herbs, trees and flowers, and has been meticulously designed to resemble a Mediterranean village, complete with whitewashed buildings and cobbled paths weaving through the complex.

To find out more and book your stay at Anassa Hotel, visit Sovereign’s website or call 01293 765 003. Sovereign is offering a 10-night holiday to Cyprus, from £2,149 per person, including a week at Anassa Hotel, return flights from Gatwick, airport fast pass and private resort transfers.