Visitors from overseas have been falling in love with the historic and picturesque region of Paphos in Cyprus since the days of antiquity. After all, according to ancient mythology it is the birthplace of Aphrodite – the Greek goddess of love. Could Paphos be the perfect choice for you?

Location and landscape

Paphos is a large region, covering the far western end of Cyprus. Most international buyers concentrate their search on the 50-kilometre-or-so stretch from Peyia, through the town of Paphos and east towards Pissouri.

It has long been a popular choice for British buyers, whether for a holiday home or retirement. You can choose between numerous towns and villages scattered across the area.

The area delivers for property buyers and retirees in three keys areas: history, beaches and the natural environment.

Paphos has enough ancient ruins to excite any history enthusiast. Delve into the region’s diverse heritage at Paphos Archaeological Park. It houses the House of Dionysos with some spectacular Greek mosaics, plus the Tomb of Kings, which are impressive Egyptian catacombs carved into rock.

Paphos boasts a multitude of beautiful beaches – 12 of which are currently enjoying Blue Flag status. A favourite among holidaymakers is Coral Bay. This can get rather busy at the height of summer, but even in the depths of winter Cyprus tends to be warm and sunny compared to the UK, when the beaches are empty.

For a more secluded beach, head out of town towards the Akamas Peninsula, the wildlife sanctuary that occupies the westernmost corner of Cyprus.

As you travel inland you will find Paphos Forest, with traditional villages and ancient monasteries nestled among the trees. This state forest is in the Troodos Mountains and covers an area of 70,000 hectares. You will find an abundance of flora and fauna including Cyprus cedar and golden oak trees, as well as the Cyprus mouflon, red fox and many species of reptiles and amphibians.

Notable buying spots

Paphos remains one of the best areas for value for money. The town offers a great combination of old and new, with a traditional old town (Paleo Paphos) lined with cobbled streets but also an impressive modern harbour and beachfront with bars and restaurants (Kato Paphos).

The town is well-maintained, having had vast sums spent on its infrastructure when European City of Culture in 2017.

Many international buyers also look to the villages hidden in the hills beyond Paphos town. Being at a higher altitude, they tend to be cooler and less humid, making the hot summers more manageable. Some lovely towns and villages slightly further out are Armou, Tala and Peyia.

The small town of Polis, further north, is perfect for nature lovers being right next to Paphos Forest. If you fancy staying closer to the town, consider Chloraka.

The lifestyle

Cypriots tend to be very friendly, loving their café culture and being socially active, usually al fresco in the sunshine. They will go out of their way to make you feel welcome.

Given Cyprus’s close connection with the UK, English is widely spoken and where there are cultural differences the people will be more than happy to explain their way of life to you.

As a popular area for active retirees – and not just from the UK – the Paphos area has plenty to do. From expat walking groups (like the “Cyprus Strollers”!) to art clubs, sailing to golf and MeetUp groups, your brand new social life awaits you.

If you do start to miss home, it won’t be difficult to find your favourite British treats as many supermarkets on the island stock British food and drink.

Property

Rightmove has nearly 6,000 properties in Paphos, with something lovely for just about every budget. One-bedroom apartments start as low as €50,000, but if you have a mega-budget of millions to spend you won’t be short of choice either.

You can find classic townhouses in Paphos villages for €100,000-€200,000, or small villas for under €200,000.

A budget starting at around €250,000 will give you a good selection of large, detached villas with private pools and gardens.

Getting there

One huge benefit of Cyprus over other eastern Mediterranean locations is the handiness of year-round flights via budget airlines. Even better, Paphos has its own international airport. The flight time is around 4 hours 45 minutes and it is possible to find some really cheap flights.