- Cyprus
- Polis
A small town on the Northwest end of Cyprus, Polis is a quiet resort famed for its exclusivity and the high standard of its hotels. The nearby town of Latchi is famed for its harbour and fish taverns while the Akamas Peninsula Nature Reserve is hugely popular for its stunning vistas and tranquil setting.
The climate is typically Mediterranean and due to its location, can work out to be one of the hottest parts of the region during the summer. Summers are hot and dry (they can be completely rainless from May - mid-September) and the summer skies are generally cloudless and bright for up to 13 hours a day. Inland, the Troodos and Kyrenia mountain ranges are refreshingly cooler. During the winter months, the weather is still pleasant with temperatures hitting the high-teens and mid-20s.
To see one of the last areas in southren Cyprus that has been untouched by developers, take a boat ride to Akamas Peninsula where you can take a dip in the blue lagoon. For a bit of history, check out The Neo Chorio or Peristerona Villages. Here, you’ll see traditional houses and women weaving and you can try a delicious home-cooked meal. If you’re looking for photo opportunities, check out the Peristerona Gorge, Evretou Dam and the Byzantine Museum where you’ll find picturesque and breathtaking views and a little bit of history.
Whether you’re looking to escape the crowds and relax among others on holiday, you won’t be short of a each in Polis. For a view of the seabed and crystal clear waters, take a boat trip to Blue Lagoon, found in the Akamas Peninsula. Nearby, you’ll find Lara Beach, a nesting ground for Green Back Turtles. Just a few kilometres from Latchi Harbour, you’ll discover the stunning Argaka Beach, which was offically deemed a region of natural beauty. For sea and mountain views, head to Latchi Beach and for a more traditional beach experience, complete with sunbeds and umbrellas, visit the popular Polis Municipal Beach.
There are many places to eat and drink in Polis but, you could also pack a picnic and drive to Agios Merkurius near Argaka or Smigies, the most popular picnic site found near Neo Chorio village. There are also many local wineries to visit while in Polis.
Polis is far out from all the main party areas in Cyprus, so nightlife isn’t as extravagant here. Beach bars and pubs can still be found serving cocktails, though.
Take a trip to Latchi village and try out a new water sport like scuba diving, water skiing on the back of a jet ski, kayaking, or paragliding. There are also places to go go-karting and mountain biking in Polis and, for avid walkers, take a trip to Akamas or the forest above Argaka.
It may be off the beaten track, but Polis is still well-connected. Local buses are available to get you around town and to other villages for very reasonable prices. Cyprus also has an excellent taxi service, all with air conditioning. Cars are also available for hire, but if you want to be more environmentally friendly, hire a bicycle instead!