POLIS
Area: Cyprus


Location:
In NW Cyprus, 70 miles NW of Limassol. 23 miles N of Paphos airport.

Telephone code from UK:
357 26

Position:
Set in green rural area, about half a mile from coast at mid-point of wide Chrysochau Bay. Akamas Peninsula with its nature reserve lies to W.

Description:
A small agricultural town with a population of around 1,800, Polis is a cheerful, bustling place with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. It is built around a charming central square which is surrounded by restaurants, tavernas, cafes and bars. Most of the buildings are traditional Cypriot or _ if built more recently _ adhere to the same architectural principles so the town has a typically village rather than resort feel. There are a number of interesting buildings dotted around, including the Greek Orthodox St Nicholas' Church which sits at the heart of the town.

Suitability:
Couples, families and nature enthusiasts. Generally, holidaymakers wanting a more typically Cypriot experience.

Accommodation:
Mostly small aparthotels in A to C category. A couple of centrally placed hotels.

Shopping:
No more than 20 shops, mostly situated in centre and comprising small souvenir outlets, minimarkets and leather, gold, silver and lace shops. A fruit and vegetable market is held every day in town square, where you can buy locally grown oranges, lemons and olives.

Beach:
Nearest beach is half a mile away at the camping site, set attractively among eucalyptus trees and reached via citrus groves. It is a mix of sand and shingle and offers safe bathing, changing rooms and a restaurant/bar.

Entertainments:
Daytime: archaeological museum; 16th-century St Andronicos' Church with its medieval frescoes. Nature trails. Tennis. Water sports and boat trips at Latchi. Nightlife: a disco and half a dozen bars located around village centre.

Eating:
Around 15 eateries, predominantly traditional tavernas and fish restaurants offering locally caught produce.

Public-transport:
Hourly bus service to Paphos and three times daily to Baths of Aphrodite (Mon_Sat in high season). Taxis also available. Car and bike rental.

Local-excursions:
Half day: Baths of Aphrodite, the famous pool where the Goddess of Love was said to bathe; Kathikas with its vineyards and traditional wineries; Peristerona with a Byzantine museum; nature reserve at Akamas Peninsula; numerous nature trails and walks. Full day: Nicosia, the capital; Troodos Mountains sightseeing tour; Paphos history tour; daily boat trip to Fontana Amoroza, a dry spring with a beautiful beach.