The legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, Cyprus is a beautiful land of undulating contours bathed in almost luminous sunshine where glittering Mediterranean waters lap golden shores. Inland, rocky plains give way to hills and 'kokkinokhoria', or 'red villages', so called because of the red-tinged local soil. Punctuated by windmills, these sleepy towns offer a fascinating glimpse into everyday Cypriot life and stand in real contrast to the effervescent coastal resorts of Protaras and Ayia Napa - the latter of which has earned itself an international reputation for great nightlife and stands shoulder to shoulder with Ibiza as a premier Mediterranean clubbing destination.
