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PEYIA,
Coral Bay Area
This charming village clings to the rugged hills that act a backdrop to
Cyprus ' most photogenic stretch of coastline. A very large, almost
overwhelmingly friendly village, now designated a town with its own
municipality tucked away in the hills. The peculiar rock formations are
unique to the area.
Below glitter the crystal waters of the Mediterranean, while to the north
the silhouetted peak of Agios Georgios which marks the beginning of the
untouched Akamas Peninsula .
However, it's the village's proximity to the resort of Coral Bay (just
five km south west and a 5 minute drive) that first put Peyia on the map. Walking along the
pine-scented streets it's easy to come to the conclusion that Peyia is
still sleeping off all the recent tourist interest. While locals like to
claim that 'in Peyia nothing happens in a hurry', the truth is that
nothing much happens at all. However, it's this sleepy quality that imbues
the village with most of its charm.
Peyia proves a welcome antidote to the bustle of nearby Paphos and is a
great place to while away a relaxing lunchtime with a plateful of meze and
a cold bottle of Keo beer.
If you prefer your afternoons to be a little more active you'll find a
number of local companies offering every white-knuckled pursuit. Local
amenities and sports include cycling, tennis, horse riding, paragliding,
go-carting, swimming and a variety of beach activities. Safaris run
regularly to all parts of the island from here.
A picturesque drive North along winding roads through the Peyia forest and
pretty villages brings you to the Akamas Peninsula and Latchi's beaches,
giving the possibility of countless memorable days out.
Cultural cravings should be satisfied by the two ruined Christian
basilicas found on the outskirts of the village, near the fishing refuge,
(watch where you put your feet as the 'best bit' is the mosaic covering
the floor), while further evidence of Peyia's historic importance comes in
the shape of Roman tombs carved into the cliffs above the sea. Do not
forget to quench your thirst at the picturesque fountains which can be
found in the beautiful stone-paved village square.
Having slumbered through the day Peyia wakes up at night. Taverna tables
groaning under the weight of fresh fish and meat meze fill the central square, the
evening air cools and the village comes alive with the sounds of animated
conversation. Then, all of a sudden, it's very easy to see why Peyia has
become one of the most coveted places on the island to own a holiday home.
There are several coffee shops, grocers and heartily welcoming tavernas,
which provide simple but excellent food at very reasonable prices.
Facilities in Peyia are mainly situated on the main road leading into the
village. You will find a chemist, a bakery that serves delicious bread
first thing in the morning and butchers.
Behind the church you will find Peyia’s answer to Aladdin's cave,
everything your heart desires from yoghurt, milk, bread, olives, frozen
foods, fresh fruit and vegetables. |