Ayia (Agia) Napa and Protaras are located south of the Famagusta (Ammochostos) area on the East coast of Cyprus. Once a peaceful fishing village, Ayia Napa is now, along with nearby Protaras, the coastal area of Paralimni, one of the most popular tourist areas on the island. The area is a true paradise, with golden sandy beaches and crystal clear, calm waters that combines luxury hotels, cheerful atmosphere and nightlife. Agia Napa, on the Southern coast, has amazing natural beauty with hidden bays, impressive cliff views and sea caves. The area of Kavo Greko (Cape GreKo) is a must visit. The most popular beaches of Agia Napa are Makronissos and Nissi beach. Some of the best beaches in Protaras are Fig Tree Bay, Konnos Bay and Pernera Beach.
But there is more to the area. Visitors can also admire numerous Byzantine and Frankish monuments and museums such as the "Thalassa" Sea Museum. Attractions worth a visit are the medieval monastery in the center of Ayia Napa and the Profitis Ilias church located on the Protaras hill, which offers beautiful views of the area especially in the early morning and during sunset.
For a totally different and unique perspective, we recommend you take one of the nature trails. The nature trails that run through the Cape Greko national park. The park is of great ecological value and is home to rare species of flora and fauna. Many of the 36 different species of orchids that grow on the island can be found here.
In the surroundings of Agia Napa and Protaras is the main agricultural production area of the island and is known as Kokkinochoria which means 'red soil villages': Avgourou, Deryneia, Frenaros, Vrysoulles, Liopetri, Sotira, Xylotymbou and Achna, thanks to the their fertile red soil produce high quality fruit and vegetables.
There are those who claim that Cypriot potatoes are the most delicious in the world. The area is also renowned for its strawberries and watermelons, and each of these native products is celebrated with its own festival. The villages are equally renowned for their folk poets and traditional singers, who are considered the most inspired on the island.
Very close to Ayia Napa, Potamos Liopetriou or the Liopetri river is worth a visit. This small fishing enclave boasts an idyllic setting and is ideal if you opt for a day of relaxation and fresh fish at the local restaurants.