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VILLA PETRA
Villa Petra, Mandria, Paphos, Cyprus
Mandria is a small village where the hustle bustle of city life seems far away.  The
beach is within walking distance and offers the chance to swim and sunbathe, or
take a leisurely stroll along the unspoilt coastline.  The village provides the basics
for each day.  There are two tavernas
, two restaurants and a supermarket, also a
church and a bank.  Nearby you will also find a fruit and salad kiosk with local nuts
and olives, and a petrol station.
Head east from Mandria, either on the motorway or the more scenic minor
road, and you will reach Petra Tou Roumiou - the famous legendary
birthplace of Aphrodite.  According to Greek mythology Aphrodite is said to
have risen from the white foam of the waves, floating on a sea shell.  There
are viewing areas alongside the minor road , or wander down to the shore
and soak up the atmosphere, this spot is particularly beautiful at sunset.
Paphos town is an archaeological gem.  At
various times in history the town has been
settled by Greeks, romans, Phoenicians,
Assyrians and Egyptians - all of whom left
their mark.  The ancient port has a well
preserved fort with Roman remains
behind it.
West of the town is the Tombs of the
Kings, well worth a visit.

For those who prefer more modern
facilities, the port today is full of luxury
yachts, and is lined by bars and
restaurants.  There are large stores and
smaller shops further back from the
waterside, and the narrow streets are well
worth exploring.  
All the beaches in Cyprus are municipal, ie none are owned by
hotels or individuals, and are therefore accessible by anyone.  

Watersports have become very popular around Paphos, and
several companies now offer a variety including fishing, sea
cruises, windsurfing, waterskiing and sailing.

Close to the villa you will find a waterpark and go-karting.

With many months being dry and warm, golf is very popular, and
there are three good golf courses within fifteen minutes drive
from the villa, with more planned for construction.

The Troodos mountain range provides a change to beaches and
pools.  Here you will find many unspoilt villages, nature trails and
high altitude flora.  For those who enjoy cycling, there are tracks
and companies providing bikes for hire.  During the winter
months skiing is possible on Mount Olympus.

Or you may prefer to discover the local winery and sample some
of the local wine.  

Almost in the centre of Cyprus is Nicosia, the capital and the last
divided city.  The Cyprus Museum contains one of the best
archaeological collections in the Mediterranean and the venetian
walls which almost completely surround the old city and dating
from the 16th century are worth a visit.

Between Paphos and Limassol are some quiet, secluded
beaches.  Limassol's old town attracts visitors with its mix of
contemporary shopping and restored 19th century architecture.  
There are a castle, museums and four wineries offering tours.

The motorway also provides easy access to Larnaca and the
eastern coast and resorts including Ayia Napa and Protaras.