Europe's 'Island Of Love' Is A Beautiful Mediterranean Gem With Fantastic Beaches And Wine

Some travel destinations feel as though they come straight from the pages of a fairytale. One in particular, with its warm breezes, sun-drenched beaches, and hills draped in vineyards, is a place that feels both mystical and mythical. Long known as the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, Europe's "Island of Love" is a place where history lingers in its ruins, romance lives on its shores, and every corner tells a story. Often overlooked for its flashier Mediterranean neighbors like Italy or Greece, Cyprus is an island that blends natural beauty with a rich and ancient history, and unique cultures and flavors. 

According to Greek mythology, Aphrodite rose from the sea foam off the coast of Cyprus, near what is now known as Petra tou Romiou or Aphrodite's Rock. This stretch of coastline, located between Paphos and Limassol, is not just one of the most romantic spots on the island, but also one of its most-photographed. While the legend may be mythical, the natural beauty here is very real.

Travelers can walk along the rocky shore, swim in the warm Mediterranean waters, or sit and watch the waves roll in with a magical view. Elsewhere on the island, you can walk through thousand-year-old tombs in the morning, lounge on a golden beach in the afternoon, and enjoy fresh-caught seafood with a glass of local wine to finish the day. From its lively coastal towns to the sleepy mountain villages of the Troodos range, Cyprus offers a pace of life that invites visitors to slow down and enjoy the moment. Whether your days are spent exploring ancient mosaics in Paphos, wandering past Venetian walls in Nicosia, or floating in the warm waters near Ayia Napa, Cyprus is a place that showcases both cultural depth and natural beauty.

Luckily for beach lovers, Cyprus is overflowing with miles of golden sand, dramatic cliffsides, secluded coves, and the cleanest water in the world for swimming. The southern coast near Limassol and Larnaca is dotted with long stretches of beach perfect for sunbathing, and in the west, Coral Bay and the Akamas Peninsula boast rugged cliffs and turquoise waters ideal for snorkeling and kayaking.

One of the best beaches in Europe is Fig Tree Bay (also known as Protaras), a postcard-perfect stretch of beautiful white sand and clear, shallow waters. A tiny islet just offshore adds to the charm, and you can wade out to it on a calm day. Nissi Beach is a lively, palm-lined beach renowned for its white, powdery sand and dazzling blue waters. During summer, Nissi is the ultimate party destination, with beach bars, live DJs, and dancing into the early hours. That said, it's not all nightlife — visit this beach early in the morning or during off-season and you'll find a tranquil paradise.

Another option for those seeking entertainment is Mackenzie Beach, a large space with tons of bars, restaurants, facilities, and events. It's also close enough to Larnaca airport (Cyprus's larger airport) to take a quick taxi ride. Makronossis Beach, located about three miles east of Ayia Napa and not far from Nissi Beach, is a beautiful hidden gem, with a main beach and three individual coves. It's also located close to the Makronissos tombs, an interesting archaeological site consisting of 19 excavated tombs from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Makronossis Beach offers the quiet that both Nissi and Mackenzie lack, without compromising beauty. With shallow waters, a number of water-sports to choose from, and a laid-back atmosphere, it's the perfect beach for families. 

While beaches are probably the first (and maybe only) thing to come to mind when you think of Cyprus, believe it or not, it's said to be the oldest wine producer, dating back more than 5,000 years. Thanks to its sunny climate, mountainous terrain, and native grape varieties, Cyprus produces wines that are distinctive, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition.

Though they produce different varieties, Commandaria is the star of the show in Cyprus. This sweet, amber-colored dessert wine is made from sun-dried white and red grapes, and it's long been enjoyed by the likes of kings, crusaders, and emperors. In fact, legend has it that Richard the Lionheart served it at his wedding in Cyprus, referring to it as the "wine of kings and the king of wines." Beyond Commandaria, Cyprus has a multitude of indigenous grape varieties you won't find anywhere else in the world, like Xynister, Maraktheftiko, Mavro, Spourtiko, and Yiannoudi. 

The best way to experience Cypriot wine is to head to the Troodos Mountain wine villages, also known as the Krasochoria. These picturesque hilltop towns, like Omodos, Koilani, Arsos, and Vouni, are surrounded by vineyards and home to family-run wineries. Visitors can take various wine tours, including quick tastings in Aiya Napa and full-day excursions. Most vineyards are small and artisanal, blending ancient techniques with modern equipment. Some of the top wineries to check out include Zambartas Wineries, Vlassides Winery, Tsiakkas Winery, Lambouri Winery, and Ayia Mavri Winery. If visiting in late summer or early fall, don't miss the Limassol Wine Festival, held annually since 1961. It's a lively celebration where you can sample dozens of local wines, enjoy traditional music and dancing, and even stomp grapes the old-fashioned way.