If you’re yearning for some time out far from Cyprus’ packed seaside hubs during your August holidays, head out to the bucolic Pyrgos Tyllirias; a truly intoxicating mix of mountains and sea on Cyprus’ northwest coast. And while the seaside community of Pyrgos may only be about a one-hour drive from Polis Chrysohous, the whole area feels infinitely remote. You’ll drive past the tiniest fish taverns snuggling up to the shoreline, you’ll spot lonesome goats traversing the area’s barren yet incredibly rugged countryside and you’ll discover cobalt seas, so clear and pristine, that you’ll wonder why it took you so long to explore this underrated slice of paradise.
1. Check out the new Grape by the Sea
Anyone who has visited Kato Pyrgos in the past will have no delighted in a cool drink come sunset at this seaside haven known as Grape by the Sea; an absolute My Cyprus Insider summer favourite. This summer, the beach bar has returned better than ever, having moved to a nearby and equally dreamy location near Kato Pyrgos park.
Tables and chairs are dotted across an elevated wooden decking and grassy strip, all under a shaded area. There are also deck chairs and bean bags for you laze in as you drink up the sea views. We love the gazebos on the pebbly shore. Order your favourite refreshment, tuck into one of the snacks on the menu and live out the true meaning of summer bliss!
2. Soak up some art & culture at Antiskino Festival
An alternative destination in itself, it’s not surprising that Kato Pyrgos also hosts its own alternative artsy festival. This year, the so-called Antiskino Festival will be taking place between 26 – 29 August, in the leafy grounds of the Kato Pyrgos community park, shaded by towering eucalyptus trees.
They’ll be contemporary theatre performances to enjoy, plenty of music to get your feet tapping, and workshops to get those creative juices flowing. The festival is child-friendly and there’s even a space for camping on the festival grounds.
3. Laze on the lovely Omega beach
If your idea of beachside fun is hiding away from it all on a quiet sandy stretch, immersed in the pages of a good book, then Omega beach should surely tick some of your boxes. Located right beneath the recently renovated Pyrgos Bay Hotel, the beach has been named after the Greek letter ‘Ω’, owing to its shape.
Do keep in mind that although Omega is undoubtedly quieter than most well-known beaches in Cyprus during the summer months, it can get slightly busier during the mid-August holidays, so head here early to secure an umbrella and sunbed.
