AYIA NAPA AND THE LOCAL AREA

The word Napa means wooded valley and in ancient times this area was covered with thick forest. According to legend, a hunter found an icon of the Virgin Mary in a cave and the present monastery, built in 1500AD, was built around this cave.
Not so long ago Ayia Napa was a small fishing village with a population of a few hundred. Following the Turkish invasion of 1974 Famagusta lost all the revenue from the tourist industry and Ayia Napa was born.
Over the years Ayia Napa has developed into a popular holiday resort due to its beautiful crystal clear blue beaches with golden sands and many tourist attractions. It is also very well known for its magnificent night clubs and bars which cater for people of any age.

There are extensive golden sandy beaches in the Ayia Napa area. All beaches in the Ayia Napa area have been awarded the EU Blue Flag for their cleanliness and brilliant facilities. Facilities for all water sports are provided including water skiing, wind surfing, pedalos, jet skis, parachutes, scuba diving and more. The crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean offer sunbathers and swimmers a virtual paradise. One of the most famous of Ayia Napa's beaches is Nissi Beach. Close to Nissi Beach is the Water World Water Park which offers a full days entertainment for all the family.

Take a day away from the beach and explore another world, away from the discos and pubs of the lively Ayia Napa. Cape Greco is a popular place to cycle and walk along the nature paths. The magnificent beauty of the mountain sea cliffs combined with the indigenous flora of Cape Greco is impressive.

Ayia Napa Harbour has had a complete facelift with its fountains and cobble stoned pathways and quaint cafes and restaurants that overlook the Mediterranean. Take a cruise from the harbour around the Ayia Napa coastline. Family cruises are available on a daily basis.

For the shopaholics among you take a stroll down any winding street and you will be impressed by the vast variety of attractive items. Ayia Napa can easily accommodate the shopping needs of just about everyone in every capacity.

When the sun goes down in Ayia Napa there is a special ambience that attracts people of all ages and persuasions. There are colourful charming taverns offering traditional island dishes as well as restaurants specialising in French, Italian, Mexican, Arabic, Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Cafes, bars and clubs are lively and plentiful. There is also a wide choice of hotels offering excellent evening entertainment.

A fine casual atmosphere, good food, great entertainment and a warm and friendly hospitality make anywhere you choose to spend an evening in Ayia Napa a memorable occasion.