Sports in Cyprus
Cyprus is rapidly becoming a sporting destination. Its location, climate, Mediterranean waters and the facilities on the island play host to a range of sports. If you are sporty here are some activities you may wish to try during your stay.
It is also an emerging golf destination, a place to enjoy the game all year round in the perfect Mediterranean climate.
There are currently four 18 hole courses to choose from on the island.
Cycling
The ideal climate makes it possible to explore the island’s stunning countryside on two wheels all year round. Mountain bike Cyprus offer tours, bike hire (road bikes and MTB’s), route information and support. Also great for road cycling, Cyprus has recently become a popular training area for pro cycling teams.
Running
The climate, diversity of terrain, compact size of the island and the costal paths make it perfect for running. Marathons and half marathons are organised regularly, attracting local and international athletes.
Scuba Diving
Cyprus waters provide good conditions for diving. PADI diving schools are dotted around the island with water providing good visibility and underwater challenges including caves and wrecks. The wreck of the Zenobia, a Swedish liner that went down in 1980 is a hugely popular dive site and often listed in the top 10 wreck dives in the world.
Watersports
Warm seas, flat conditions in the morning and wind most afternoons place Cyprus among the better European destinations on the water sport’s calendar. Kite-surfing, wind surfing, sailing, water skiing, water boarding & jet skiing are available throughout the island from April – November.
Triathlon
Cyprus has everything triathletes require for a comprehensive training programme. The island boasts five 50 metre swimming pools with the best being at Geroskipou sports centre next door to the state of the art running track at the municipal stadium.
Trail running, cycling and sea swimming can easily be practised in the stunning Mediterranean backdrop. There are many triathlon events hosted throughout the year, including an annual half iron man.
Walking
A great climate and a variety of walks on offer make Cyprus a beautiful walking destination: Georges, Peninsulas, Mountainous and coastal walks are all in abundance and some spectacular views can be found from all. We’d recommend escaping to the Troodos Mountains in the hot summer months where it is on average five degrees Celsius cooler.
Annabel Croft Tennis Academy on the resort.
High quality tennis coaching for novices and families.
Call: 26 828 122
Golf
Aphrodite Hills
Tel: 26 828 203
Aphrodite Hills is the best course on the island. It occupies two plateaux, carved out of the forest of carob and olive trees, with most holes having a view to the sea. The natural topography is gentle, but there is enough movement to give each hole a distinct personality.
The perfect resort course, this means that it requires thought.
18 holes, par 71/70, 6299 metres.
Secret Valley Golf Club
Tel: 26 27 4000
Located just down the road from Aphrodite Hills towards Paphos, secret valley was the second course on the island to be established, however it was recently renovated in 2012/13 and was re opened, vastly improved, as a Tony Jacklin signature course in Sept 2013.
The course plays beautifully and is hidden in a scenic valley surrounded by natural Cypriot flora, yet still offering sea views: and the lake between holes 11 & 12 is a feature in itself. Playing to par 71, at a length of 5700 yards, it is one of the most challenging courses on the island so caution is recommended, don’t try to drive too long or you might regret it!
Minthis Hills Golf Club (Tsada)
Tel: 26 642 774/5
Founded in 1994 on the hills of Tsada, the Donald Steel course was renovated in 2006/7 by Mackenzie & Ebert which improved it greatly.
It plays to a par 71, measures 5828 metres and is a fun course for all standards of player, with great variety between holes, tree-lined fairways and the new 13th green surrounded by water provide a challenging round, set in a tranquil and picturesque hilltop location.The setting and clubhouse are equally stunning and make for a beautiful day’s golf, highly recommended and well worth a visit.
Elea Estate Golf Club
Tel: 26 202 004
Located between Paphos International Airport and Paphos town, the newest golf course in Cyprus is impressive. The challenging course, designed by the legendary Sir Nick Faldo, incorporates numerous natural features and boasts stunning views of the Mediterranean.
It plays to a par 71 and measures 6775 metres. The clubhouse is well worth a visit for lunch, open to non-golfers.
TOP TIP
Ask courses about their twighlight deals, they often work out great value- especially in peak periods.