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Limassol
Limassol is home to the romantic historical story of Richard the Lionheart visiting the city during the Crusades to free his betrothed from the Byzantine sovereign of the time. The subsequent wedding became a party that is legendary still today, which is probably why modern Limassol is still a centre of nightlife and joie de vivre. This lively ambience is also aided and abetted by the fact that Limassol is the centre of winemaking on the island. The city has concentrated its efforts in recent years on mercantile development and modernising its buildings. Unlike other Cypriot cities it has not protected its architectural or cultural heritage, but with its many excellent hotels it does offer a good base for visitors who can head for the hills after whooping it up under the city's bright lights. The foothills of the Troodos Mountains lie north of the city and offer charming country walks that meander through friendly villages. There are also some good beaches on the outskirts of the city, most of which belong to hotels which charge an entrance fee for non-guests. The sandy beach of Avmidou, located on the grounds of the British military base of Akrotiri, is open to the public.
Cyprus Medieval Museum
The Cyprus Medieval Museum is housed in Limassol Castle, which is fourteenth century castle situated over the enchanting harbour and containing an array of interesting historical relics. The castle is renowned for being the place where Crusader Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre, and crowned her Queen of England in 1191.
Address: Limassol Castle, Richard and Berengaria Street; Telephone: (25) 305 419; Opening time: Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm; Sunday 10am to 1pm; Admission: C£1
Troodos Mountains
Visitors can take a stroll along the fascinating trails of the Troodos Mountains, located in the lush interior of Cyprus and offering some enchanting views of the natural landscape. The Artemis Trail is circular, extending four miles (7km) in the Black Pine region through the distinctive sub-alpine flora of the area. Orchids can be found under the pines, and one may spot the rare Epipactis condensata. The Atalanta Trail, six miles (9km) long, starts at Troodos and also offers rich plant life, spectacular scenery and bird watching opportunities. The shorter and easier Caledonia Trail, covering two miles (4km), follows the Kryo Potamo stream about one mile (2km) from Platres, and winds through pine forest, and among plane trees. It also bypasses the Caledonian Falls, which are the only waterfalls on Cyprus. The Persephone Trail, named after the Greek goddess of spring, is about two miles (3km) long and offers lovely views.
Pitsilia
The Troodos Mountain Range is also home to some beautiful unspoilt villages, nestled in the lush foothills in a region called Pitsilia. A rental car or a hired taxi is necessary because public transport is infrequent. Many of the villages make their own wines, and other products such as honey and cheeses. The picturesque houses, painted churches and red-tiled roofs are striking, and many restored houses have been turned into cafes or restaurants.
