Cyprus is a hot spot for Brits who enjoy year-round warmth and a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. We look at why the western corner of the island is so popular with expats and holiday homeowners…

Location and landscape
Paphos is the westernmost district of Cyprus, the beating heart of which is the district capital and one of the island’s most popular tourist resorts, Paphos town. The bulk of the population and resorts are in the southern and western parts. Most of the north-western tip comprises the Akamas Peninsula, a conservation area, while the north-east is wooded mountains. One gem in the north, bordering Akamas and on the Bay of Chrysochous, is the pretty town of Polis, less developed than the south and home to picturesque fishing town Latsi.

Complementing Paphos’s scenic landscape are its cultural and historical sites, including famous Aphrodite’s Rock, hence ‘Aphrodite’s Isle’. Paphos town, with its ancient harbour and ruins is a designated UNESCO Heritage Site, and home to the Paphos Archaeological Park and Tombs of the Kings. A short drive inland from the town takes you into green foothills dotted with some wonderful, unspoilt villages. A few kilometres north of town is the popular resort of Coral Bay, with its idyllic beach (main photo).

Notable buying spots
For the buzz of a large beach resort, Paphos town ticks all the boxes. The main touristy area, closest to the beach and best for holiday rentals, is Kato Paphos. Also popular is Universal, a more residential neighbourhood but still central, while up the hill near the old quarter is the more affordable Pano Paphos area. Coral Bay attracts those whose prefer a smaller resort community, and the neighbouring village of Peyia is a favourite with expats.

A safe distance from the bright lights but still just 5-10 minutes’ drive from Paphos town centre, are a collection of small villages or residential areas. Especially popular with retirees and families, these include Chloraka, Konia, Tala, Armou or Emba. Further inland into the hills, villages like Tsada, Kathikas, Stroumpi, Kallepia or Polemi, offer a more tranquil lifestyle. The Polis areas has a similar appeal.

The lifestyle
The subtropical Mediterranean climate sets the tone in Paphos. On the coast, you can revel in an outdoorsy, beach lifestyle pretty much all year – even in January the mercury hovers in the mid-teens. Just beware that villages in the hills above the coast have micro-climates, so while summers are less humid and less stifling, winters are chilly.
Paphos town is a year-round working community, fusing a lively modern seafront, complete with night spots, with a traditional old quarter and commercial areas. Catering equally for holidaymakers, expats and local Cypriots, it offers every type of amenity, including hospitals, schools and shopping malls. Life in Cyprus also retains familiar hallmarks of its colonial past. You drive on the left, English is a second language, you can shop in British stores, such as M&S, there are many expat-run businesses, and of course there is still a British military base.

The out-of-town villages are ideal for expats in search of a local Cypriot lifestyle amidst peaceful surroundings. Most have essential amenities, including a local taverna and coffee shop, but Paphos town is usually still an easy drive away.
Besides the beach, Cyprus is a paradise for all types of water sports. It also suits golfers, being home to most of Cyprus’s golf resorts, including Aphrodite Hills, Minthis Hills, Secret Valley and Elea.

Property
In Paphos town, prices start from around €90,000 for a one/two-bed resale apartment in Panos Paphos, but budget from €125,000 for a more central property in Kato Paphos or Universal. For a well located new property, expect to pay €150,000 upwards. Two/three-bedroom townhouses in the Paphos town area start from around €150,000, likewise in Polis. In the villages, €200,000-€250,000 is a good starting budget for a modern detached villa or converted stone character home.

Getting there
Unlike most other island tourist destinations, Cyprus is lucky enough to have two international airports. One is at Paphos while the other larger one is at Larnaca. Paphos International Airport is located around 10 kilometres south-east of Paphos town, making it a 25-30 minute transfer to the centre. Despite Larnaca International Airport being in the eastern half of the island, it is still only a 90-minute drive from Paphos town, so is still a viable option for flights.