No longer a quiet fishing village, the Agia Napa/Protaras area has become a haven for young single and married holiday makers.
Napa (as it is affectionately known) attracts clubbers from all over Europe and beyond who like nothing better than partying through the night at one of the many lively venues.
Thrill seekers are catered for with heart-stopping fairground rides, bungee jumping and helicopter rides. The beaches offer many varied waters ports such as parasailing, diving and jet skins, while Water world Water Park is considered one of the best in Europe. Off season, the area is much quieter but there’s still plenty to do. The rugged Cavo Greko area offers excellent views and cycling and hiking tours make the most of the surrounding countryside.
Places to Visit
Agia Napa Monastery
The former fisherman’s village has a Venetian monastery, built in the Gothic style. The 16th century church is hewn from rock and courtyard features a 16th century marble fountain. The sycamore tree near the south gate is said to be 600 years old. Since 1978, the complex has been used as an ecumenical centre.
Agia Mavri
A monolith is the western part of Agia Napa. The middle of this pillar has a hole and it is said that anyone suffering from ill health will be cured if passed through the hole.
Agia Thekla
A chapel located between Agia Napa and Sotira Village, there is a cave nearby called The Catacomb of Agia Thekla. This is not a catacomb, but a cave or tomb that was carved into the rock.
Agios Epiphanios
A chapel devoted to the Byzantine Bishop of Salamis. It is sited above Paliochori, a Byzantine settlement destroyed during the Arab invasion of 632 to 964 AD
Cultural Centre of Occupied Ammochostos
Evagorou 35, Deryneia Village
Tel: 23740860
A centre promoting the cultural arts of the area. Hosts art exhibitions as well as dance and film events. Also has a small permanent display of artefacts. Contact the centre direct or the Cyprus Tourism Organization head office for current events info.
Metamorfosis tou Sotiros Church & Ecclesiastical Museum
In the centre of Sotira Village
Tel: 23923932
The church of the Transfiguration – Metamorphosis. This was originally a much larger building. An inscription over the south door states that it was rebuilt in 1553.
Things to do
Cycling
Telephone the Cyprus Tourism Organization on 22691100 for further information.
Three trails in the Agia Napa/Cavo Greko area.
Fun Fairs
Nissi Avenue, behind McDonalds
An assortment of rides – from the gentle to the terrifying!
Thalassa Municipal Museum of the Sea
Centre Agia Napa Town Hall. Tel: 23816366
A variety of marine life is on show here.
Hiking
Telephone the Cyprus Tourism Organization on 22691100 for further information.
There are nine hiking trails in the Paralimni/Cavo Greco area.
Waterworld Water Park
Agia Napa
At the ‘gateway to Agia Napa on Agia Thekla Road.
Diving
Telephone the Cyprus Federation of Underwater Activities on 22754647 for further information.
There are several professional diving centres in the area.
Karting
EMW Go Karts
Agia Thekla Road (next to Waterworld Water Park)
Tel: 23724444
Festivals
“Kataklysmos” Flood Fair – June
At Limanaki (Harbour)
Contact Agia Napa Municipality Tel: 23816300
Kataklysmos, which coincides with the day of the Pentecost, is a religious and popular feast celebrated only in Cyprus. The celebrations of this feast last several days and take place in all seaside towns and resorts.
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