Car Hire Polis - Mini guide to Polis
Polis is a charming quiet beach town offering pleasant beaches and a varied landscape. Located in the unspoiled northwestern region of Cyprus, Polis is renowned for its Cypriot hospitality, culture and cuisine.
Polis’s coastal and mountain areas are its main attractions. Hiking is particularly popular and the region contains a network of nature trails as well as the infamous Bath of Aphrodite - a waterfall and pool where legend says the goddess escaped to bathe when not entertaining lovers. The area is also famous for its wines; Polis’s Vouni Panayia Winery is a popular destination, its vineyards offering sweeping views.
Away from the popular seafront, the small township of Polis is centred on its pedestrian-only plaza lined with quaint cafes serving thick Cypriot coffee. The area is home to some fine buildings dating to the beginning of the 20th century and the centrally located archeological museum is particularly interesting.
Leisure time can be filled with many activities including windsurfing, sunbathing and sailing. In the evenings, Polis offers a host of cafes and restaurants, although most offer traditional Mediterranean fare. Particularly renowned is the traditional Cyprus 'meze' - a revolving buffet consisting of small portions of cold and hot dishes.
Exploring the surrounding region is rewarding but not for the faint hearted. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for the many unpaved roads. Worth the effort is the scenic Lara Beach where loggerhead turtles lay eggs during the summer. The impressive canyon of Avakas Gorge is located nearby. For a glimpse of traditional village life, Kathikas in the Akamas Heights offers local crafts, produce and authentic taverns.
Paphos International Airport, 50kms from Polis, is the most convenient for those arriving by air and is served by several major airlines from Europe. Daily flights are available from Athens (1 ½ hours) and London (4 ½ hours). During the summer, buses regularly run between Paphos and Polis. Ferries also connect Cyprus with the Greek Islands and Athens’ Piraeus Port.
