Lara Beach is where wild Cyprus truly shines – a remote stretch of golden sand that’s protected as a nesting site for endangered loggerhead turtles. It’s a powerful reminder of how beautiful nature can be when we protect it properly. This isn’t a beach for partying – it’s a place to connect with the island’s natural heritage. CYPRUS’ TURTLE SANCTUARY You absolutely need a 4×4 vehicle to reach Lara Bay – the final stretch of road is unpaved and rough – if hiring a car check the insurance as many companies will not cover any damage on these roads. From Paphos, take the B7 to Polis then follow signs for the Akamas Peninsula – the journey takes around 1 hour 15 minutes. Alternatively, join an organised tour from Paphos or Limassol – this is the easiest way to visit if you don’t have off-road transport. Once you arrive, a small car park sits just above the beach, and you’ll need to walk down a short dirt track to reach the shore. Past information on the turtles, and sometimes even baby turtles under short term care. THE BEACH EXPERIENCE Lara Bay stretches for over a kilometre, with soft golden sand and water that ranges from pale blue to deep sapphire. Swimmers will love the clean, clear conditions, though the water can be cooler here than on more sheltered beaches. Most importantly, this is a protected area – you must stick to designated paths and avoid disturbing the sand dunes where turtles lay their eggs. Moreover, volunteer wardens patrol the beach during nesting season (May to October), and they’re always happy to share information about these incredible creatures. There are no sun loungers or umbrellas available – this is a wild beach, so come prepared with your own equipment. You’ll find basic toilet facilities near the car park, but no other amenities on the shore itself. For those who love nature, keep an eye out for migratory birds overhead and lizards scurrying across the sand dunes. FOOD & DRINK OPTIONS There are no restaurants or kiosks at Lara Beach, so you must bring all your own food and water. Pack a picnic with local favourites like tzatziki, pita bread, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers – eating with your feet in the sand is an unforgettable experience. Also, bring plenty of water – the sun is strong here, and there’s no shade apart from what you bring yourself. If you forget supplies, the nearest shops are in Polis town or Coral Bay, around 20 minutes away by car. Always bring a cooler box with ice packs to keep drinks cold – it makes all the difference on hot days. BEST TIME TO VISIT The best time to visit is outside nesting season – from November to April – when you can explore the entire beach freely. During nesting season, you will see cages protecting turtle nests – it is VERY important not to go near or disturb these nests. You may be very privileged and watch the turtles from a respectful distance, when the wardens are helping them by releasing to the sea. Also, early morning is the best time to come – you’ll avoid the heat of the day. Finally, check the weather forecast before you go – heavy rain can make the access road impassable even for 4×4s.
Cypriot BBQ – Delicious, Must Try!
Discover Cyprus through its famous BBQ dishes—souvla and souvlaki. Enjoy smoky flavours, traditional tavernas and the island’s best grilled meats on your next trip. Discover Cypriot BBQ: Souvla, Souvlaki and the Taste of Real Cyprus If you love good food and want to experience proper local flavours on your holiday, you have to try Cypriot BBQ. Cyprus takes grilling seriously—big portions, bold flavours, and that smoky, irresistible smell drifting from every garden and taverna on a Sunday afternoon. Whether you’re exploring villages, beachside restaurants or mountain taverns, you’ll spot those rotating spits and know you’re in for something amazing. Souvla: Cyprus’ King of the BBQ Let’s start with souvla, the star of any Cypriot barbecue. Think large chunks of pork, lamb or chicken slow-roasting on huge skewers over charcoal. The meat cooks slowly, turning until it’s crispy on the outside and unbelievably juicy inside. Souvla is often saved for special occasions—family gatherings, Sunday lunches and feast days—but you’ll also find it in many traditional tavernas, especially outside the busy tourist strip. If you want a proper taste of Cyprus, this is it. Order a plate, add a cold beer, and you’re basically living like a local. Souvlaki: Small, Tasty and Perfect Any Time Then there’s souvlaki, the everyday favourite. These are smaller skewers of pork, chicken or sometimes sheftalia (Cypriot sausage), cooked over an open flame until they’re tender and smoky. You’ll find souvlaki everywhere—street corners, beach kiosks, market stalls and restaurants from Paphos to Protaras. The classic way to eat it is stuffed in a warm pitta with salad, tzatziki, onions and a splash of lemon. It’s simple, delicious and perfect after a morning on the beach. Why Cypriot BBQ Belongs on Your Holiday Itinerary Trying local food is one of the best things to do in Cyprus, and Cypriot BBQ gives you a real taste of the island’s culture. The portions are generous, the flavours are bold, and the atmosphere—especially in traditional tavernas—is unbeatable.Whether you’re staying in Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca or Ayia Napa, you’ll never be far from a grill sizzling away. Follow your nose, grab a plate of souvla or souvlaki, and enjoy Cyprus like the locals do.
Polemi Tulip Festival
Each spring in Polemi village, Paphos, they hold a Tulip Festival. This celebrates the wild tulips which grow throughout the valley. The day also features local dancing, singing, crafts and food. A wonderful chance to participate in traditional Cypriot life. Experience the Polemi Tulip Festival in Paphos, Cyprus! If you’re visiting Cyprus in spring, the Polemi Tulip Festival is an absolute must-see. Every year, this charming Paphos village bursts into colour as thousands of wild red tulips bloom across its fields—creating one of the most beautiful natural sights on the island. The festival celebrates Polemi’s long tradition of tulip growth with local food, music, dancing and a proper Cypriot village atmosphere. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy authentic culture while soaking up unforgettable views of red and yellow tulip carpets, hunting the nearby vineyards and fields for the tulips in the wild is a popular activity at the end of March and beginning of April. And, it is not just the tulips – the countryside is full of wild flowers, enjoy them where they are though, no picking! Whether you’re into photography, nature walks or discovering hidden gems in Cyprus, the Polemi Tulip Festival delivers something truly special. It’s family-friendly, relaxed and incredibly picturesque—ideal for a spring day out. Don’t miss it!
