Your host village

Leave the hectic pace of your life behind in a part of Cyprus that is close to nature and far from the madding crowd. Beautiful sunsets, clear warm waters, and quet are just some things that the north western tip of the island has to offer.

With the Troodos mountains as a backdrop opening up into the majestic sweep of the Chrysochou Bay, the Polis area is a place which has remained untouched by time. It offers much to see, with the Akamas peninsula to the west, Pomos to the east and many picturesque villages nestling in the hills in between.

With its mild climate and the indisputable charm of the natural landscape, the Akamas peninsula, designated to be a national park, is one of the most inspiring places for appreciating nature. It is an area of natural wilderness where pineclad cliffs plunge into turquoise waters giving way to private sandy coves.

Polis Chrysochous lies on the western coast of Cyprus, 1km from Chrysochous Bay, in what is the most attractive spot on the island with its natural beaches, the unspoilt beauty of the Akamas peninsula, and the Baths of Aphrodite, where the Greek Goddess of love and beauty, is said to have bathed.

Polis, although being a small town has an air of holiday charm combined with history and a beautiful natural environment. The picturesque restored square in the heart of the town and the charming winding alleys with traditional houses add its unique character. To the east of Polis lies MARION an ancient city, a Kingdom of Cyprus founded around the 10th century BC by Athenian settlers.

Later a new city known as Arsinoe was built by Ptolemy Philadelphos on the site of the present town of Polis. During the Frankish period its name changed to Polis Chrysochous.

The latter name comes from the Greek word "Chrysos" which means GOLD, because of its wealth. East of Polis close to the beach is the picturesque fishing harbour, Latchi which is famous for its fresh fish. Further to the north is the Akamas peninsula - a paradise for nature lovers and walkers.

About Cyprus

Cyprus is the largest island in the Mediterranean. It is situated at the crossroads of three continents - Europe, Asia and Africa. This geographic position has played an important part since antiquity in the island's turbulent history. A country's cultural heritage is the most important living treasure of its people. It is through this that its identity can be expressed and an awareness of its historical continuity through time can be created.

Today Cyprus is a modern country that effortlessly marries European culture with ancient enchantment. Here you will discover a compact world of alluring beaches and fragrant mountain peaks, vineyards studded with olive trees and ancient ruins that stir the imagination, citrus groves and old stone villages where sweet wine flows as freely as conversations at the local café. A carefree place where a sense of timelessness is magnified by the kindness of the people.

You can find more about Cyprus by visiting the official website of the Cyprus Tourism Organisation at http://www.visitcyprus.com