Amathus Bay Holidays

Amathus Bay sits quietly on the south coast of Cyprus. Ruins near the village are all that remains of its status as an ancient royal city, said to have been home to the children of the god Heracles. These days, its whitewashed cottages and small portfolio of restaurants attract holidaymakers who want to get away from it all – with the option of a 10-minute drive to energetic Limassol.

The main beach is called, appropriately, Sands. The long, dune-backed stretch is seldom busy and the shallow waters are great for paddling or swimming. There’s also a beach bar with a grassy sun terrace for kicking back with a drink. You can take the short trip to Limassol Beach if you fancy stepping it up with some watersports.

Overlooking the bay are the Troodos Mountains, Cyprus' largest mountain range. Well-worn trekking trails reward walkers with wildlife, waterfalls and picturesque picnic spots – not to mention old villages, monasteries and inspiring views. You’ll need the right footwear for the trails, but this is also a great area for casual strolls.

Paphos, a 45-minute drive away, is home to a Medieval castle and the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, goddess of love. She and Adonis are said to have met in another of the town’s attractions, the Adonis baths and waterfall – the waters are rumoured to have anti-ageing powers. The well-preserved 2,000-year-old mosaics at the harbour are a stunning counterpoint to the bustling modern promenade.