Cyprus By Car - Amazing Road Trip To Akamas, Paphos

Last Updated on January 3, 2024 by Tia

Cyprus by car, is the absolute best way to experience incredible Cyprus. From the cities, paradisiacal beaches, picturesque villages, and everything in between.

And when you are talking about exploring Paphos Cyprus by car… well it gets a whole lot better!

Table of Contents

Authors Note: Save The Planet

Akamas is an environmentally sensitive area, which should have been protected a long time ago – back when Cyprus entered the EU in 2004. As I have mentioned in numerous articles, irresponsible tourism often leads to the destruction of nature’s wonders, and Akamas is a part of this too. You can read more about it here.

When visiting such areas of immense beauty and wild nature, it is important to proceed with caution. Firstly, make sure your trip is eco-friendly.

Keep all rubbish in your backpack or car and dispose of them safely.
If you are a smoker, Carry a portable ashtray – the Cyprus heat often leads to fires and many of them are caused by cigarette buds!
Drive safely, to avoid destroying precious flora and fauna
Hike, walk, or use bicycles wherever possible
Do not Litter the oceans – carry a stainless steel water bottle to also keep your water cold.
Refrain from disrupting the wildlife. If you witness turtle hatching, please do not queue up for a photo opportunity – that is simply cruel!
Read my guide on how to practice responsible tourism and ethical travel

Because this is not just any road trip!! Wild, unspoiled nature, and incomparable beauty. This is Akamas, this is Paphos and THIS is our Cyprus, which we must, by all means, protect, for ourselves, but also for the next generations!

In Paphos, we take on Cyprus by car seriously and travel many kilometers! Particularly, Pomos, Poli Chrysochous, Akamas, Neo Chorio, Arodes, Lysos, and Ayii Anargyroi!

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

Old wooden blue door i found in a village in Paphos whilst exploring Cyprus by car

Unspoiled, jaw-dropping beaches, views that take your breath away, wild nature safari, warm smiling people, and wonderful hotels and cottages!

No matter how many days you vacation in Paphos, it is never, ever enough! And that is why I bring you my personal favorite places to explore Cyprus by car right here!

the top of the world! views from the peak of a mountain whilst exploring Cyprus by car

Can you travel to Cyprus by car?

It is best to fly into Cyprus before embarking on your Cyprus road trip. However, if you are adamant about bringing a car, you could take a ferry from Greece or the Uk into Cyprus. Bear in mind that this will take 1-2 weeks in transit and cost you a few hundred euros in customs too!

Cyprus By Car – Is it easy to drive around Cyprus?

Yes it is! Because Cyprus used to be under British occupation, all roads and highways have English signs and are in great condition to drive on too. The only narrow streets you will find are in the villages (that are totally worth a visit by the way!).

The distanced arent too large – you can drive from one end of the island to the other in less than 4 hours – but there are literally thousands to do in between!

The only place I would recommend to ditch the bag and get a quad of a baggy is in some parts of the Akamas Peninsula. Keep reading for more info on that!

driving a buggy on an akamas safari whilst discovering Cyprus by car

Are cars cheap in Cyprus?

To be perfectly honest – nop. If your goal is to explore Cyprus by car, then I would suggest renting an SUV. That way, you can safely visit forests, cities, and villages too.

An SUV during the summer months (high season) will set you back 50 euros per day without petrol. So that quickly adds up! Hence why I almost always recommend a road trip between 4 people as that puts the cost down a lot.

Also, please bear in mind that the public transportation system in Cyprus is practically non existent.

There are a few buses here and there – and special shuttles to the airports in Larnaca and Paphos etcetera. For info, you can read about it right here. So for a successful road trip, peace of mind, and comfort I would highly recommend renting a car!

Do you drive on the left in Cyprus?

Yes, in Cyprus we drive on the same side of the road as the UK. You can legally drive here with a full and valid UK driving license.

To rent a car in Cyprus, you must be at least 21 years old and you must have held your license for three years. Drivers under the age of 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

Cyprus By Car – Pomos

First up on your Cyprus By car itinerary should be Pomos! This village, lies about 20 km afar from Polis Chrysochous, on the way to Akamas peninsula.

It is a laid back, peaceful village and one of the remaining unspoiled and undisturbed areas of Paphos.

But this little gem boasts amazing coastline views and beautiful sandy beaches. The result? Well, an epic start of a road trip!

whilst exploring Cyprus by car, make sure you stop at pomos beach in Paphos

Dragon’s Cave – Pomos

First up is Dragon’s cave – a rocky area with a beautiful beach, just a few kilometers from the little port of Pomos.

According to tradition, it is told a dragon lived in the cave and protected the area from evil! There are a few steps that will take you down to the cave. You will love taking pictures of the intricate cave, rock carvings, and rocky beach!

Pomos Harbour

This small picturesque fishing harbor is great for a little stroll! Although I havent personally tried it, I was told that the food at the restaurant there is very good!

Road trip and discovering Cyprus by car in Pomos harbor, Paphos

Cyprus by car – Akamas Safari

The Akamas National Park lies on the west coast of Cyprus, and it is without a doubt like nothing you have seen before! Untouched by humans and development (at least for now) its immense raw natural beauty will be left with you forever!

The peninsula is as vast as it is beautiful! It covers 230 square km of forest, valleys, gorges, beautiful coastlines, and sandy beaches.

Sitting at the peak of Moutti tis Sotiras mountain on a roatrip of Cyprus by car

The wildlife, as well as the flora and fauna, are abundant in Akamas. There are varieties of rare tulips, trees, birds, butterflies, and reptiles as far as your eye can see!

Akamas is also home to many incredible nature trails – so hikers will definitely plan to say a few days exploring it all!

Apart from hiking the nature trails, you want to explore the coastlines, gorges, valleys and viewpoints. For that, you either need to book an Akamas Safari!

a safari on a buggy is such a fun way to enjoy Cyprus by car

Petrides Rentals – Akamas Safari

Petrides Rentals was a game changer! I honestly had the BEST 5 hours – and visited some places I wouldn’t have known to stop for if it wasn’t for their help!

Petrides rentals is the best place to rent vehicles to enjoy Cyprus by car

We rented a 4 seat baggy, and It felt as sturdy and safe as a car! There are quads too if you prefer those, and maps giving you clear ideas of the numerous routes you can choose to explore Akamas!

me and my buggy on my epic Cyprus by car road trip!

We opted to have a guide with us – and it was the best decision ever!

For starters, it freed me of driving! As a result I could take more photos and videos and simply be in the moment and enjoy it! Secondly, Argyris is a walking Wikipedia of Akamas.

Born and raised in Akamas, the man knows every rock, road, and secret pathway to the best spots!

Moreover, he will happily tell you all about everything you are seeing! Argyri, you are incredible, and I thank you kindly!

me and my knowledgable tour guide and driver on the akamas safari trip!

Simply park your car at Petrides Rentals ( in Poli Chrysochous), rent a buggy or quad, and pick it up on your return!

Ready, set, GO and get ready for an adventure you are unlikely to forget!

Aphrodite’s wild beach

Some of the purest, most beautiful coastline in Cyprus can be found in Akamas, anywhere between Blue Lagoon and Aphrodite’s Baths. Aphrodite’s wild beach is practically opposite the baths, right next to the restaurant.

To get to the beach you have to descend a staircase., which unfortunately means that this isn’t easily accessible for wheelchairs.

The view from above is incredible, and typically, I found other people eyeing up my Instagram-worthy spot on the little white patio to take pictures on haha!

the views from the top of Aphrodite's wild beach in Akamas

The beach itself is gorgeous, with calm waters that make it ideal for snorkeling (something the area is known for). Once you get down there, there are numerous little hidden beaches both blue flag and not, but all as clean and beautiful as each other!

Aphrodite’s Wild Beach isn’t a blue flag beach but it does, however, have an on-duty lifeguard, some sun loungers, showers, and a restaurant.

Baths of Aphrodite

If you didn’t know, Cyprus is also known as the birthplace of the Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love!

Aphrodite was actually rumored to have been born in Paphos, at the famous ”Petra you Romiou”.

In the Akamas Peninsula, just past the Latchi harbor, you can find Aphrodite’s baths and botanical garden

when exploring Cyprus by car, dont forget to stop at the Baths of Aphrodite

This natural grotto is shaded by lush greenery, flowers, and an old fig tree, and legend says, that the Ancient Greek Goddess Aphrodite used to bathe in the waters.

According to Greek mythology, Aphrodite met her lover Adonis here and they fell in love instantly

The site is linked to the Aphrodite Cultural Route, and there is a small nature trail at the entrance of the baths to your left. Don’t worry about missing it, it is clearly marked with signs!

Koufotripis Beach

I fell in LOVE with this spot! Hidden deep in the Akamas Peninsula, on the way to the Blue Lagoon, is this tiny little secret beach. I fell in love with it instantly, but beware! It is indeed tiny, so don’t take a large group over there!

Blue Lagoon -Cyprus By Car

Blue Lagoon is the largest natural bay in Akamas Peninsula and it is located in the center of the famous Akamas National Park.

The incredible blue lagoon, an absolute must when exploring Cyprus by car!

This jaw-dropping lagoon has become one of the most popular spots in Cyprus! The reason? Just look at that dazzling, turquoise water and white sandy beach.

Amazing coves, coral reef life, fish, aquatic life, and shells are abundant here, so snorkeling is a must!

How to reach Blue Lagoon

Seeing as this is a huge attraction in Cyprus, there are daily boat trips to Blue Lagoon from Latchi Harbour. Blue Lagoon is a 45-minute sail from there, and you can choose a half-day, full-day, or sunset tour!

Of course, you can also access Blue Lagoon while on your Cyprus by car adventure – ie on your Akamas Safari! You will definitely need a quad, buggy, or four-wheel drive car for the ride. It is off-road and adventurous, but definitely doable!

Please bear in mind there are two ways of accessing the lagoon by car.

exploring Cyprus by car by visiting blue lagoon in Paphos

Fontana Amoroza

Cyprus By car – Moutti Tis Sotiras

WOW! Moutti tis Sotiras is 370m high and it rises directly above Akama’s north coast – dishing out, out of this world views of Akamas and Paphos right in front of your eyes!

exploring Cyprus by car by hiking the highest peak of Sotira

It’s very difficult to explain the feeling of being there, with no sound around but the wind blowing in your ears and the sun giving life and color to what’s in front of you. It’s almost humbling, as you feel so small in the grand scheme of it all!

The mountain is made of limestone, and the road to it is rough. I suggest doing it with a quad or buggy as part of your Akamas Safari!

Latsi Harbour

Latchi harbor is a gorgeous port, where the fishermen still bring in the fresh catch of the morning!

It is practically unheard of, to go to Latchi and not eat fish! Therefore, a little stop at the many tavernas around the harbor is just the ticket for those hungry bellies!

A traditional Cyprus fish meze should set you back around 24-35 euros per person. The menu is fixed into many smaller plates to share (think tapas, but better!) If a restaurant charges more, don’t eat there, and find somewhere else!

There are also a few kiosks for essentials, but keep on driving to Polis if you require something else.

Poli Chrysochous – otherwise known as Polis is the closest town, situated just 2km away. There you can find large supermarkets, and a larger choice of restaurants, etc.

Ayii Anargyroi Natural Healing Spa Resort

me in the gardens of Ayii Anargyroi Spa Resort

Relaxation, wellness, and luxury! The Ayii Anargyroi Natural Healing Spa Resort offers a unique escape to an oasis of thermal baths and spas, beautiful flower and fruit tree gardens and fish ponds.

The Rooms

The rooms are dreamy and made for relaxation! The hotel is completely renovated with stone, wood, and earthy colors – a perfect blend of traditional and modern.

The bungalows at Ayii Anargyroi Spa Resort

The beds are impossible comfortable, the views are impecable, and at my bungalow, both the jacuzzi and the shower use thermal water, so essentially, you have your own private spa in your room!

Everything is decorated in style, plenty of wood and white colors soothed my eyes. I was instantly relaxed upon entering this bungalow (I stayed in number 46).

You will find yourself drawn to the serenity of the room! Some jacuzzi time, book reading in the veranda amidst the sounds of birds chirping, and of course, deep, blissful sleep.

me in an outdoor jacuzzi taking a break from my Cyprus by car road trip

The Spa

At the spa, we experience the magic of the area’s thermal waters, which give life to our joints and muscles! It really is a special and one-of-a-kind experience.

The spa is huge and just stunning. There are three treatment pools with natural spring water in varying temperatures for kinesiotherapy, rheumatology, and phlebology.

in the oasis of the Ayii Anargyroi Spa Resort

Moreover, there are medical spa treatments for conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, gout, and joint pain. Additionally, you can choose wellness treatments including face and body care, massage therapies, fitness and physiotherapy.

A little note that’s worth mentioning! The relaxation/meditation room after the spa is one of the most beautiful ones I have seen in Cyprus. Given the fact I travel so much, this says a lot!

The Food

Well, take a look at any one of my articles, and you won’t be surprised I’m talking about food..again! Yeap, you knew this was coming! I loved the food here, and I tried both the breakfast, lunch and dinner service.

Breakfast is different at Ayii Anargyroi. There is a small buffet of breads, nuts, cheeses etc (basically a continental breakfast) that everyone helps themselves to.

Additionally, upon being seated, there is an a la carte menu to choose cooked dishes too. There are options like fried eggs, poached eggs, omelets, and chocolate crepe.

In fact, you can choose one than one hot dish per person. And it is all included in the price of your breakfast. Don’t forget to up your vitamins with a delicious fruit smoothie!

As a responsible traveler who advocated for ethical tourism, I applaud this initiative as it keeps gluttony at bay ( and helps my waistline escape my greedy eyes).

Most importantly, it reduces the tons of wasted food that hotels all around the world are throwing in the trash every day!

Dinner was phenomenal! -it was served in the outdoor restaurant with views of the pool.

There was a set 4- course menu when I visited the hotel.

I sampled puff pastry with mushrooms, stuffed pepper with feta cheese, and pomegranate and avocado salad!

Then came the mains, a choice between creamy ravioli with cream cheese, and sundried tomato, and lamb with cauliflower puree!

Desserts were fruits, lava cake, and walnut cake. Yum!

Delicious, even more so, with the hotel’s bespoke red wine ”Ierampelos” – which is produced from the owner’s own vineyards!

CHECK OUT THE AVAILABILITY OF AYII ANARGYROI HERE

Argaka Bridge

Instagram-worthy sunset views? Check! Look no further than Argaka Bridge, which’s located 7 km northeast of Polis Chrysochous.

The bridge provides the kind of perfect instagrammable background that will photograph beautifully, at all hours of the day. But like, I said, those sunset views are pretty special!

Sunset in Argaka Bridge, one of the stops in my Cyprus by car road trip to Paphos

Karydhia Cottage Villa, Pano Arodes

If you fancy booking a stay as a group, then Karhydia cottage villa is an excellent choice! I loved my stay here!

Karydhia is a three-bedroom cottage villa with its own parking, sunbathing terrace, and an outdoor pool in the pretty village of Arodes, 3 km from Kathikas.

Inside the villa, you will find 3 rooms with a kitchenette, a dining area, and a living room. The open plan kitchen and dining area are decorated beautifully with traditional Cyprus artifacts from generations past!

The house, although modern, still holds its traditional character with plenty of wood and stone!

The master bedroom is en-suite and has its own shower and WC. The second bedroom has a double bed and the third is a room with 2 single beds.

All three bedrooms have individual and well-working AC units, although I didn’t use mine! Even in June the climate is perfect in Arodes!

The villa can essentially accommodate up to 6 people so it is perfect for families or groups of friends!

You can easily cook here, as the kitchen is fully equipped!

BOOK KARYDHIA COTTAGE VILLA HERE

Pano Arodes Village – Cyprus By Car

The village of Pano Arodes is stunningly positioned on the Laona plateau, at the edge of the Akamas Nature Reserve. It leadss down to the breathtaking Avakas Gorge and the coast.

Its location is perfect, as it’s situated close enough to drive to Kathikas, Polis, Pomos, Akamas and so much more!

exploring Cyprus by car by visiting picturesque villages in the Akamas region

IIts a small and tranquil village filled with plenty of greenery, vineyards, and stone houses. Furthermore, you will find a cute village square that always looks immaculately clean!

Religious tourism is also possible here – as the village is of high importance.

Here you will find what is believed to be the only church in the world dedicated to Agios Kalandionas. The saint just so happens to be the patron saint of Arodes!

Lysos Village – Cyprus By Car

Another sleepy village close enough to Akamas is Lysos, a village with interesting architecture, and comfortable cooler climate.

Paphos airport is 46km and Akamas is 34km drive. You can drive to Paphos for a night out or a summer party in 30 km too.

While in Lysos you can enjoy horse riding at Marias Horse Trekking and delicious Cyprus lunch at Erotokritos Tavern

Marmaras Guest House

If Lysos sounds like your vibe, you could book a stay at Marmaras! This large and beautiful space can be used as a Conference space and/or Agrotourism accommodation.

It is located in the center of the village of Lysos, with modern facilities for conferences.

It has the capacity of hosting up to 15 persons. Of course, the complex can be rented as a whole or separately as studios.

The multipurpose space at the entrance is super modern and inviting. The space can be shared by all private studios, as well as the courtyard.

Many yoga groups and retreats host their events here and I can see why! It’s so tranquil and well organized, it immediately puts your mind at ease!

The Rooms at Marmaras

You have a choice of 4 studios to book! All 4 studios are disabled-friendly too, with a Raised Toilet Lower Sink Toilet with Grab Rails.

Katoi Studio: Katoi studio is the largest studio! It consists of 2 modern rooms that can host up to 5 people.

Makrynari. This is a spacious studio with a fireplace with 1 double bed and a sofa bed for two more people. It can accommodate up to 4 people.

Anoi: Anoi studio is a spacious studio with 2 single beds, and an extra sofa bed that can accommodate up to 2 adults. It also boasts its own wood stove and private small terrace

Palataki: Palataki studio is the smallest but coziest little studio, perfect for a couple, especially in wintertime. The studio has its own kitchenette and fireplace too.

So whether your vibe is Hiking, Cycling, Sea adventures, Nature exploring, Horse riding, or simply stargazing… Keep Marmaras on your mind as your base!