A centre of culture and commerce for many ancient civilizations, Cyprus has seen human populations for over 12 thousand years.
A range of influences has left an impression on the island, with Cyprus being ruled by Assyria and the Roman Empire in addition to several other empires.
The modern history of Cyprus has left the island divided in two parts, with the Northern area separate from the rest of the island.
Cyprus has rich and varied inland regions.
The landscape of Cyprus is diverse, with large open coastal bays and tall cliffs, and sandy beaches, mountain regions and fertile rolling countryside.
In autumn, the yellow and orange of citrus fruits contrast marvelously with the blue of the sky and sea.
The most famous animal on Cyprus is the Moufflon, a shy mountain sheep that can be seen at a charming nature reserve at Stavros tis Psokas in the Paphos forest.
Stretching across the west side of Cyprus are the Troodos Mountains, offering a range of outdoor activities such as walking and even skiing during the winter.
For walkers the countryside is wonderful, with some stunning summer scenery and packed full of areas of historic interest including mountainside monasteries and idyllic villages full of rustic charm.
A great way to enjoy Cyprus holidays is to go self-catering, especially when combining your sight seeing with a cycling or walking tour.
Cyprus villas have a reputation for being top class and luxurious.
When you're after a real taste of the authentic Cypriot atmosphere, there's no better way than to wind down after a day on the beach or exploring the cultural and artistic history of the island than to relax in stylish, quality accommodation.
The Troodos Mountains will highlight to visitors the Byzantine way of life lived out there, with many sites of cultural and archaeological importance to be explored, including Byzantine churches, art and architecture.
Although places like the Canaries may be more favoured by cyclists and Mallorca by walkers Cyprus also has favourable options.
Across Cyprus, the opportunities to explore by foot and by cycle are rich and varied, and allow the visitor to minimise their ecological footprint on this beautiful island, whilst enabling them to discover the culture, landscape and wildlife in their own time.
Along the coast of Cyprus, there hotel, villa and guest house alternatives in places with stunning coastal views, where there are also fantastic ranges of water sports and activities to enjoy.
With white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, idyllic coves and a smattering array of sea life and rock pools to explore, the coast of the island is diverse and wonderfully varied.
Culture and history are lined across the coastline of Cyprus, with some excellent locations for bird spotting and more energetic activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, and mountain biking.
Eating out in Cyprus is a world of colour and flavour, with some excellent cuisine in the towns, and some great restaurants in the tiny fishing villages along the coast.
Many hotels or villas in Cyprus are friendly, family run establishments, with a range of amenities and facilities to suit groups with young children.
With a responsible, eco-sensitive approach now being increasingly taken by Cypriot businesses, it is possible to enjoy a truly green and environmentally aware stay in Cyprus, away from the crowds and enjoying the real, genuine, charming Cyprus.