protaras

protaras
Protaras (Greek: Πρωταράς) is a predominantly tourist resort which comes under the administrative jurisdiction of Paralimni Municipality in Cyprus. In ancient times, where Protaras is now located, stood the old city-state of Leukolla. The city possessed a small safe harbour where the Athenian Demetrius Poliorketes sought refuge in the year 306 BC, lying in wait for Ptolemeos, one of the successors of Alexander the Great. In the ensuing battle, Ptolemeos was defeated and fled to Egypt, leaving Cyprus in the hands of Demetrius for a short time. Protaras is also referred to as "the land of windmills", maintaining the nostalgic quality of the past.
Protaras has clear sky-blue waters and sandy beaches, the most well-known of which is Fig Tree Bay. It has expanded into a modern holiday resort of considerable size with tens of high capacity hotels, hotel apartments, villas, restaurants, pubs and associated facilities. Protaras has a reputation of catering more for family and Cypriot tourism. Cape Greco is a 10-minute drive from the centre of Protaras, and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island.

Thursday, June 11, 2015

CAPE GREKO NATIONAL FOREST PARK

Explore the multitude of intriguing nature trails lined with pine trees and a diverse botanical splendour whilst pausing to take in the spectacular views from the sea cliffs looking down to the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Many benches are spread out along these trails to take a break from the walk and admire the surroundings in stillness. One of these nature trails forms part of the European Long Distance Trail E4, running from Cyprus to Gibraltar. Then there’s the Aphrodite nature trail which stretches 2 km along the North-East coast of Cape Greko which doubles up as a Cultural Route due to the mythical birth place of Aphrodite. A lovely monument to visit is the tiny white washed church of Agoi Anargyroi with steps that lead down to the sea where there is a place where Holy water runs. Another trail leads to the ‘Cyclops’ cave where there is a picnic site close by.
Specially made cycling paths are strewn throughout. Cyprus has the ideal climate for cycling all year round with low annual rainfall and light winds. Thirty foot high limestone cliffs have caves which have been hewn by Mother Nature. Taking a boat trip along the coast you will see that they are really striking, which is why they have been aptly named the ‘Palaces’. Cape Greko has warm sea temperatures ranging from 16oC to 28oC and visibility reaching up to 40 metres. For this reason, and not to mention the wonderful scenery and the marine life, this area is very popular with divers.

Sea Caves

 Sea Caves

There are many caves along the coastline from Agia Napa to Cape Greko National Park. Many people come here to snorkel and the locals come here before the crack of dawn to fish. The Palace caves and the Smugglers caves are deep passages in to the cliffs which are only accessible from the sea. Some extend as deep as 240 feet in to the rock. During calm seas and at low tide it is possible to swim and even walk in to most of them. Although they have a rock-strewn environment the waters are wonderfully clear. Boat trips regularly pass by daily. There are spots of deep water amongst the rocks where spirited folks engage in the extreme sports of cliff diving/jumping.


 Konnos Beach

 Konnos Beach

Situated four kilometres east of Agia Napa on the road between Cape Greco and Protaras, Konnos is the last beach delineating the boundaries between Agia Napa and Paralimni. Konnos is one of the most splendid beaches in Cyprus. It is merely 35 metres wide and 200 metres in total length and is well sheltered from strong winds ensuring hardly any waves. Covered in fine lush golden sand and with sun beds and water sports on offer, Konnos is a wonderfully charming and one of the most picturesque beaches on the island and a relaxing place to spend the day. Access to the beach is easy. The beach is accessible by car, motorbike and bicycle, and on foot. 


 Cavos - Cape Greko

 Cavos

Look down on to the Mediterranean Sea in its beauty from high vantage points on the cliff that rests on the top of the cape and take in the panoramic views. Cape Greco, also known as Cavo Greco. It is a part of Ayia Napa Municipality. 


 Ayioi Anargyroi Chapel

 Ayioi Anargyroi Chapel

One of the few buildings in Cape Greko National Park is the small chapel dedicated to Agioi Anargyroi. Below this small white chapel is a hermit’s cave which is mentioned in local legend. The chapel is a popular spot for wedding photos.

 Monachus Monachus Arch

 Monachus Monachus Arch

The bridge is located just outside the hotel 'Ayia Napa'. The crystal clear waters of the Cape Greco sea shore are amazing. They seem to be like blue mirrors reflecting the sun's light and they provide the perfect backdrop for photographs. 

 Kamara tou Koraka

 Kamara tou Koraka

Kamara in English means arch, and this arch is situated at Cape Greko on the south-eastern tip of the island. It has a height span of 50 feet and is 23 feet wide, located along the small road in to the cape.

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