7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Limassol
Summary: Planning a quick weekend getaway is a great way to save money while still seeing new places. Here are 7 fun weekend getaways for digital nomads living in Limassol.
Limassol, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful coastline and dynamic cultural scene. Digital nomads living here can enjoy the perfect blend of work and leisure, with plenty of opportunities for weekend getaways that offer relaxation, adventure, and a chance to explore the rich history and natural beauty of the island. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven destinations that are perfect for a short trip from Limassol.
Paphos
Paphos is a coastal city on the southwest of Cyprus, known for its archaeological sites and rich mythology, including the birthplace of Aphrodite. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning mosaics and historical ruins that transport you back to ancient times. The harbor area is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and you can enjoy the local cuisine at one of the many seaside restaurants. For nature lovers, the nearby Akamas Peninsula offers hiking trails with breathtaking views.
How to Get There: The best way to get to Paphos from Limassol is by car or bus, with the journey taking about 1 hour.
Travel Tip: Don't miss the Paphos Archaeological Park, where you can see some of the most intricate Roman mosaics in the world.
Where to Stay: The Elysium Hotel is a popular choice with a stunning pool that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea.
Where to Eat: For a taste of local seafood, visit Laona Restaurant, known for its fresh fish dishes and traditional Cypriot meze.
Troodos Mountains
The Troodos Mountains offer a refreshing escape from the coastal heat, with pine-scented air and picturesque villages dotting the landscape. In winter, you can even ski at Mount Olympus, while the rest of the year is perfect for hiking and exploring the local wineries. The area is also home to several Byzantine monasteries and churches with stunning frescoes.
How to Get There: Driving is the most convenient way to explore the Troodos Mountains, with the journey from Limassol taking about 1 hour.
Travel Tip: Visit the Kykkos Monastery, one of the richest and most lavish monasteries in Cyprus, with a museum that houses religious artifacts and icons.
Where to Stay: Casale Panayiotis is a boutique hotel that offers a traditional experience with modern comforts.
Where to Eat: Try the local trout at Psilo Dendro, located in the village of Platres, known for its fresh mountain cuisine.
Larnaca
Larnaca, with its laid-back vibe and palm-fringed promenade, is a great place to unwind. The city is home to the stunning Hala Sultan Tekke mosque and the Larnaca Salt Lake, which is a haven for flamingos in the winter. The Finikoudes Beach is perfect for a day of sunbathing and swimming, while the city's diving sites offer the chance to explore underwater treasures, including the famous Zenobia shipwreck.
How to Get There: Larnaca is easily accessible from Limassol by car or bus, with the journey taking about 45 minutes.
Travel Tip: For a unique experience, visit the Kamares Aqueduct, an impressive 18th-century structure, especially beautiful at sunset.
Where to Stay: The Radisson Blu Hotel features a rooftop pool and bar with panoramic views of the city.
Where to Eat: To Kafe Tis Chrysanthi's offers a cozy atmosphere and is famous for its traditional Cypriot pastries and coffee.
Kyrenia (Girne)
Just a short trip north to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Kyrenia (Girne) is a charming harbor town with a stunning backdrop of the Kyrenia mountain range. The town's castle and shipwreck museum are must-visits, and the harbor is lined with cafes and restaurants perfect for enjoying the view. The nearby Bellapais Abbey offers a glimpse into the island's medieval past.
How to Get There: Kyrenia is accessible by car, but remember to bring your passport as you'll be crossing an international border. The journey takes about 1.5 hours from Limassol.
Travel Tip: Explore the ruins of St. Hilarion Castle, which is said to have inspired the fairy tale castles of the Brothers Grimm.
Where to Stay: The Rocks Hotel & Casino offers luxury accommodations and entertainment options.
Where to Eat: Niazi's Restaurant is a local favorite, especially known for its full kebab, a selection of grilled meats and meze.
Kakopetria Village
Kakopetria is a picturesque village nestled in the Troodos Mountains, known for its traditional architecture and cobblestone streets. It's an ideal spot for those looking to experience the Cypriot countryside and enjoy some peace and quiet. The village is also a great base for exploring the nearby Solea Valley and its many Byzantine churches.
How to Get There: The best way to reach Kakopetria is by car, with the journey from Limassol taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Travel Tip: Visit the old part of the village, known as Palia Kakopetria, to see the preserved traditional houses and the ancient watermill.
Where to Stay: The Mill Hotel combines rustic charm with modern amenities and features a cozy fireplace for chilly mountain evenings.
Where to Eat: The Linos Tavern offers a variety of Cypriot dishes and is known for its warm hospitality and homemade desserts.
Agros Village
Agros is a hidden gem in the heart of the Pitsilia region of the Troodos Mountains. This village is famous for its rose products, including rosewater and rose-scented sweets. Visitors can tour the local rose factory and learn about the distillation process. Agros also offers opportunities for nature walks and visits to traditional meat-curing workshops.
How to Get There: Driving is the most practical option to get to Agros, with the journey from Limassol taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Travel Tip: In May, the village hosts the Rose Festival, celebrating the rose harvest with various events and activities.
Where to Stay: Rodon Hotel and Resort offers comfortable accommodations with views of the surrounding mountains.
Where to Eat: The Agros Tavern is a must-visit for its traditional Cypriot cuisine and the chance to try the village's famous rose-infused delicacies.
Avakas Gorge
For the adventurous digital nomad, Avakas Gorge offers a spectacular hiking experience. The gorge is located within the Akamas Peninsula and features dramatic rock formations and a diverse range of flora and fauna. The hike through the gorge can be challenging, but the stunning natural beauty makes it a rewarding endeavor.
How to Get There: The best way to reach Avakas Gorge is by car. It's about a 1 hour and 45 minutes drive from Limassol, and the last part of the journey is on a dirt road, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
Travel Tip: Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as the hike can take several hours and there are no facilities within the gorge.
Where to Stay: For those looking to stay nearby, the Anassa Hotel offers luxury accommodations with stunning views of the Akamas Peninsula.
Where to Eat: After a day of hiking, enjoy a hearty meal at the Last Castle (Viklari), known for its simple yet delicious barbecued meats and salads.
Whether you're looking for a cultural experience, a nature escape, or just a relaxing weekend by the sea, these destinations around Limassol offer something for every type of digital nomad.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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