Agrotourism in Cyprus

Description:

Agrotourism is becoming more and more popular in Cyprus as many tourists and locals head to the villages to holiday instead of the coastal resorts.
 

In its basic form, agrotourism means tourism in agricultural areas. In Cyprus, agrotourism exists in some of the rural villages depicting how village life was lived. The picturesque, tranquil places with traditional tavernas and coffee shops can be a breath of fresh air to those wishing to get away from the hustle and bustle of the busy towns.

 
In 1995 the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) created a company called the Cyprus Agrotourism Company to develop a program for restoring traditional village houses, studios and apartments.

 
An incentive scheme was launched awarding licenses to run down village properties that had been renovated to the standard set out by the program. Upon gaining the license, the property could then be listed for holiday rentals under the official government run scheme.

 
The properties that are licensed under the scheme all have modern kitchens and bathrooms with the necessary amenities. However, the property has been renovated in such a way to bring out the natural beauty in the architecture and to blend in with the traditional feel of the village.

 
There are stone built houses, traditional one and two bedroom apartments, cosy cottages and tastefully decorated studios available under the scheme. Some of the properties even have their own pool or share a communal pool in relaxing courtyards.

 
As is fitting with agrotourism, the properties are located in tranquil villages inland where local customs and traditions are still in place. Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca and Nicosia have licensed properties in quaint villages. Many of these are in the Troodos area of Cyprus.

 
Agrotourism holidays are the perfect way to spend your time visiting Cyprus if you prefer the slower pace of life and are especially interesting to nature lovers, hikers and cyclists who enjoy the country lifestyle.