Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Agrotourism (accommodation in rural properties) dates back to the 1990s when the Cyprus Agrotourism Com-
pany (CAC), concerned at the continuing local exodus, sought to protect the heritage of traditional homes by sup-
porting their conversion into atmospheric accommodation for tourists. Aside from hiking, cycling and winter ski-
ing, other promoted activities may include haloumi cheese making, olive picking, horse riding and organised ex-
cursions to Byzantine churches. There are around 100 properties, located primarily in the foothills of the Troödos
Mountains, as well as throughout the districts of Nicosia, Larnaka, Lemesos and Pafos. For an excellent colour
brochure listing agrotourism places to stay, contact the
Cyprus Agrotourism Company
(
%
2233 7715;
www.agrotourism.com.cy
;
PO Box 4535, CY-1390 Lefkosia) or check the online listings.
ECOFRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION
In 2014 the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) determined minimum mandatory sustainability standards for ho-
tels located throughout the Republic. These included supporting local agriculture, using Cypriot products and ser-
vices (as far as possible) and reducing energy and waste use. This is another giant eco-stride for a country already
recognised for its unequalled commitment to solar power in Europe.
Camping
In the South there are only four licensed camping grounds, all with seasonal opening
times: there are two in Pafos, one in Lemesos and one in Troödos. All have hot showers, a
mini market and a snack bar. The North has even fewer camping grounds, and facilities
aren't as good as in the South. Costs are similar, however.
Private Rooms
Domatia
(private rooms for rent), advertised by the word
camere,
are not common in
Cyprus; in fact, the practice is officially discouraged by the CTO. However, in Agia Napa
you'll see signs advertising rooms, and occasionally come across them in the more popu-
lar mountain resorts such as the Troödos Mountains and the Pafos district in the South.
Unsurprisingly, the rooms are exceedingly cheap, generally hovering around €15 to €20,
and meals can often be provided. If you don't see any obvious signs, consider asking in
the local taverna or bar.
Hotels
In the main southern resorts, many hotels deal primarily with package-tour groups.
However, individual travellers can usually still find a room even in 'resort' hotels. Quality
