Larnaca is rapidly expanding as a tourist resort, not least because of its idyllic Mediterranean location and climate – an obvious attraction for beach and water sports’ lovers. There are also a host of cultural, natural and historical attractions to be found in the city itself and in the surrounding region.
AttractionsUnderstandably, the vast majority of the activity in and around Larnaca involves the sea and the 15 miles or so of beaches that surround the city. Dasoudi Beach is a particular favourite with water sports’ enthusiasts, offering excellent facilities for windsurfing and water skiing. Elsewhere, the other public beaches at Dhekelia, Geroskipou, Larnaca and McKenzie, all offer superb facilities and are very close to amenities including a number of excellent fish restaurants. The Larnaca region is also something of a treasure trove of historical attractions including the District Museum which is within walking distance of the city centre. This is dedicated to the history of Larnaca (or Kition as the ancient settlement was known). The museum houses a fascinating collection of art, ceramics and other relics dating from several thousand years BC through to the days of the Roman Empire. Slightly further afield, the Stavrouvouni (“Mountain of the Cross”) Monastery at a height of some 2,500 feet above sea level and roughly 25 miles from Larnaca is the oldest in the whole of Cyprus. It reputedly houses a fragment of the Holy Cross itself, left by St. Helena. Do bear in mind, however, that the monastery is home to a devout order of monks and, as such, female visitors are not permitted under any circumstances. More “gender friendly”, perhaps, is the UNESO World Heritage Site at Choirokitia. This is some 20 miles or so from Larnaca in the direction of Limassol. It includes the remains of a Neolithic settlement dating from as long ago as 7,000 BC. AccommodationApartments and villas for rent in Larnaca and the surrounding region offer a flexible and cost-effective alternative to more traditional hotel accommodation. They are available in locations and in a price range, to suit most tastes and budgets. One or two bedroom apartments are readily available throughout the area. These can sleep up to as many as six people in total and are located in modern complexes with extensive facilities, almost always including a communal swimming pool. |  The Belltower of St. Lazarus church (the tomb of St. Lazar) in Larnaka |
If you have a larger family, you may wish to consider more spacious three or four bedroom villas. These are invariably well constructed and beautifully furnished. Once again, they are available in a range of both urban and more rural locations.
