• BREAKFAST AT THE HOTEL

LIMASSOL VISIT

Discover the must-see historical landmarks and immerse in the bustling atmosphere of the new city of Limassol. Limassol is only second to the capital Nicosia by size. And it has a lot to offer in terms of exploration and leisure. First off, you will travel to the archaeological site of Amanthous (interior visit), a city founded in 1100 BC and later named a UNESCO Heritage Site. As you amble between the remains of the Temple of Aphrodite and early Christian basilicas, contemplate the story of Theseus. The ancient hero is believed to have left the pregnant Ariadne to be taken care of in Amanthus after he defeated the Minotaur. Your next destination will be the Medieval Limassol Castle (interior visit). Erected by the French in the 12th century and rebuilt by Ottomans four centuries later, its fortifications have seen their fair share of history. You will step inside and marvel at the interiors where Richard the Lionheart held a lavish celebration of his marriage to Berengaria of Navarre. After the dive into history, you will take a stroll along the lively marina that lies to the west of the Castle. The tour will continue to one of the most beautiful Mediterranean parks, Promenade Molos, and Limassol Agora offering unique gastronomic and shopping opportunities.

• LUNCH AT TRADITIONAL TAVERN

VISIT TO KOURION

Time-travel to the unique and ancient civilization of Kourion that no longer exists.. Kourion (interior visit) was an influential city state until 365 AD, when a horrible earthquake put an end to its flourishing and rendered it into oblivion. You will marvel at the imposing Greco-Roman theater that was later restored to its former glory and mosaic floors depicting scenes from ancient life. Alongside the ruins of an early Christian basilica, you will discover the Sanctuary of Apollon Hylates (interior visit) who was worshiped by Kourionians. Some of the items that were found in the temple are exposed in the Kourion Archaeological Museum.

VISIT TO KOLOSSI CASTLE

Discover the trails of the Christian military orders’ presence in Cyprus at Kolossi Castle (interior visit). Located 14 km off Limassol, the former crusader stronghold was founded by Grand Master of the Hospitallers Louis de Magnac in the 16th century. His coat-of-arms still survives on the walls of the castle, even though the original fortification rose three centuries earlier. At some point, the Knights Templar took over the castle to return it back to its original owners a few years later. As you walk through the dark pebbled corridors, you will hear the same echo the original inhabitants of the castle heard every day. It doesn’t take much imagination to picture Medieval commoners buzzing about, carrying sugar and wines, which represented Cyprus’ main exports at that time.

• OVERNIGHT IN THE HOTEL