After the independence of Cyprus in 1960, the Ski Club developed into its modern form, with a ski Federation under the auspices of the FIS, and four regional clubs (Nicosia, Limassol, Troodos, and Famagusta) competing in various skiing competitions. Until 1968, mobile lifts operated by the British Army were used, but in 1968 the first lift owned by the CSC was built at Sun Valley 1. The big lift at North Face was the second to be built, followed by Hermes (Sun Valley 2) in 1973, and Hera (North Face 2) in 1986. Simultaneously, more trails were created reaching 9 by 1986. Each of the lifts has its own base area with a cafeteria, and the various lifts are interconnected by a trail network.
The resort offers four slopes – two on the North Face of Mount Olympus and two in Sun Valley, each has at-bar lift system, equipment rental station and ski schools offering both skiing and snowboarding lessons. The Hera Lift on the North Face and Aphrodite Lift at Sun Valley are more suitable for beginners. Intermediate skiers will feel at home on the Hermes slope in Sun Valley, while advanced skiers will enjoy the Zeus run located on the North Face of Mount Olympus which culminates at 1951m. Snow falls in the Troodos Mountains from mid-December through to the end of March courtesy of the infrequent winter storms that pass over the island. The sport of skiing first appeared on Cyprus sometime around 1934, when a group of people created the first “Mountaineering Club” of the island. Unfortunately, though, the ensuing World War II meant that the development of skiing was delayed for several years.
The Cyprus Ski Club was created on March 2, 1947, and since then it has a leading role in the development of skiing on the island. The first lift was built and operated on the eastern face of Mt Olympus using primitive equipment, while a second lift was built in 1951 near the “Dolphin” restaurant, to the west of Troodos Square (the remnants of this lift, which was powered by the engine of a Ford truck, can still be seen).
Everyone has a different idea of what their perfect beach is, but most know a good one when they see it. Cyprus has a variety of beaches- some sand, some shingle and some a bit of both. The East Coast has mainly sandy beaches with lots of water sports, parasols and things going on but they are more developed with hotels, restaurants and bars. The beaches in the West and the North tend to have more shingle but are generally quieter and more rugged with clear water that is great for swimming and diving. Wherever you choose, many of the Hotels, Villas and Apartment complexes are based on the beaches, with spectacular views over the Mediterranean Sea.
Coral Bay - For travellers staying in the Paphos area, the best beach is Coral Bay, which is shaped like a horseshoe and is made up of golden sand. It has a beachside restaurant, small harbour. The shuttle bus goes back and forth to the town centre all day. Coral Bay is a great place to swim and watch the fantastic sunset.
Pissouri Bay - This bay lies between Limassol and Paphos on the South coast of the island. At 2km long, the bay is made of sand and shingle and there are a variety of watersports on offer here. Unlike other beaches in Cyprus, which have seen a lot of development, Pissouri Bay is laid-back with a Cypriot atmosphere. It is clean and safe and there are a few taverns where you can enjoy some traditional Cypriot food. The Columbia Beach Resort Cyprus is nestled in the white cliffs and boasts spectacular sea views. The nearby Pissouri village has retained its Cypriot character, with taverns, shops, restaurants and bars, and the region is known for growing grapes.
Nissi Beach - Nissi Beach in the Ayia Napa area is an attractive beach with white sand and shallow turquoise waters. There is a small rocky island at one end which you can walk across to and go rocks jumping. It’s fair to say this is a party beach with cafes and pubs playing music and people enjoying a beer or two during the day. Attractive boys and girls parade along the beach and adventurous travellers challenge themselves to the bungee jump at the far end.
Lara Bay - Lara Bay on the Akamas peninsula is a golden bey made of sand and rocks in a rugged area of Cyprus where Green Turtles still breed and lay their eggs. To access this beach you need to go in a 4?4 vehicle but it is really worth it to see the wild landscape and secluded beach. You won’t find parasols or hotels on this beach; Lara Bay is a remote, deserted beach which is perfect if you want to get away from it all.
