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Cyprus

Cyprus’ Akamas Peninsula

Prices from £1,799 pp

Single Supplement £269

Next available tour: 28-09-2024

Tour leader: The Revd Alison Shaw

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Flights available from London and Manchester

A week staying in a small and friendly family-run beachside hotel, with its own intimate private family chapel, overlooking the azure blue waters of the Mediterranean. We take a walking tour of the seventh century old town of Paphos the regions capital and UNESCO World Heritage centre. Visited by St. Paul in 45 AD to initiate the Roman proconsul in Christianity, his efforts yielded fruit, but he was arrested, tied and whipped at the stone column in the city. However, with the conversion of the Roman governor, Cyprus became the first country in the world to be ruled by a Christian leader.

Enjoy fairly three gentle walks to Byzantine churches nestled in picturesque villages, passing hillside monasteries with stunning views and tranquil watery bays and inlets where Aphrodite is said to have bathed, all amidst the beautiful, aged forests and flora and fauna of the Akamas National Park. Travel into the foothills of the Troodos Mountains to witness a traditional way of life where ladies still weave cloth and carpets, men while away the hours over coffee and wine and families produce folkloric art.

Our hotel has remained in the same family since 1964 and the owner Gregoria always wished to dedicate a church to Mother Mary. So, in 2013 she had the picturesque little church built, which is perfect for our group worship opportunities.

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Itinerary

Travel to Cyprus (D, DR)

Meet your group leader and check-in at London or Manchester for your direct flight to Paphos Airport less than an hour’s drive to your hotel.

Please note your group leader may fly from a different airport to you in which case you will me met by our airport representative to assist with check-in and met in Paphos and escorted to the hotel by our local representative, where you will join with your Tour Leader and those flying from other airports.

Evening: on arrival meet your guide and transfer to your hotel on the Akamas Peninsula, a picturesque part of the island with valleys, gorges, wide sandy bays and a plethora of flora and fauna. Check-in for a seven-night stay.

Evening: get to know your fellow travellers over a welcome drink overlooking the bay followed by dinner in the hotel with water, tea and coffee included. If arrivals are later welcome drinks will be served the following day.

Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink
Pilgrimage beach walk and Polis Village (B, L, D)

Morning: after a short welcome from your local guide, join together with your fellow guests for the Pilgrim Beach and village walk. You will walk through beautiful Polis Village and bay with great views of the Mediterranean, the local scenery and then visit the Byzantine Apostolos Andreas Church for worship.

Afternoon: included lunch together in a local taverna followed by free time in Polis village before walking back to the hotel to relax, take in the scenery or wander into Lachti the picturesque fishing port just three kilometres away.

Evening: dinner in the hotel overlooking the Mediterranean. The hotel prides itself on its traditional Cypriot cuisine made from fresh local produce. Water, tea and coffee are included with all meals in the hotel.

Total walking distance 10km

Transport is available after lunch to return to the hotel if required to have more free time thus shortening the above distance. Terrain is mostly flat with gentle undulations.

Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink
Foothills of the Troodos Mountains & Fiti Monastery and local cooking class (B, L, D)

Morning: a scenic drive to the foothills of the Troodos Mountains to Fiti with its monasteries and Byzantine churches where you will take a walk to visit some of the churches (including worship) and witness the traditional way of life including ladies weaving and folkloric art. The 19th century church of St. Dimitris, situated in the village square, was constructed in 1857. The altar screen doesn’t look as if it has aged at all with the colours still looking vibrant and fresh.

Afternoon: local cooking demonstration where you will learn about local dishes and enjoy with homemade bread, halloumi cheese and other dishes and get to know the locals whilst enjoying lunch with your travelling companions and hosts. Also, learn about Cypriot honey production and bee-keeping with a tasting.

Evening: dinner in the hotel with water, tea and coffee included.

Total walking distance 6km

This is mostly around Fiti and Lasa with just a couple of slopes to encounter.

Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink
Arodez Village, Kathikas church and wine tasting (B, L, D, DR)

Morning: walk to to the picturesque village of Arodez to visit and worship in the church known locally for its special Good Friday celebrations where the President of the local council assumes the role of Jesus and the villagers then follow in procession. After, continue to the village of Kathikas to visit the church.

Afternoon: after a picnic lunch continue walking to visit a local winery and museum for a tasting before returning to the hotel.

Evening: dinner in the hotel with water, tea and coffee included.

Total walking distance 8km.

Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink
Blue Lagoon and Manolis Bay cruise (B, L, D, DR)

Morning: (bring your swimwear!) we enjoy a relaxing cruise around the stunning scenery of the Akamas Peninsula National Park. Take in views of the beautiful bay called Aphrodite' Bath, a famous mythological site where the goddess of love is said to have visited. Also, see the St. George Church which dates back to the 13th century, a popular pilgrimage site, built on the hilltop overlooking the sea and set amidst natural beauty. There will be the opportunity to swim so do bring your swimming costume!

Afternoon: enjoy an included lunch on board with drinks as you sail Manolis Bay with its azure blue waters, surrounded by overhanging rock formations and famous for being dotted with sea caves. Continue to the Isle of Chamili, better known as the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its clear crystal waters.

Evening: dinner in an atmospheric local tavern with a range of traditional Cypriot dishes to share. All local beers, wine, soft drinks and tea/coffee are included this evening.

Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink
Paphos, Paphos Castle & Mosaic Museum (B, L, D)

Morning: a short drive to visit the ancient capital of Cyprus and UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Paphos. See the Column of Paul the Apostle and take a walking tour through the streets of the old town Kato Paphos built in the seventh century. The remains of villas, palaces, theatres, fortresses and tombs mean that the site is of exceptional architectural and historic value. A stop for short worship is included at the St. Paul Pillar Church.

Afternoon: after an included lunch visit Paphos Castle, the House of Dionysus, a Roman style building and the famous mosaic museum of Paphos. The mosaics of Nea Paphos are among the most beautiful in the world. On return to the hotel you will stop at the Kremiotis Waterfall reached via a short nature trail.

Evening: dinner in the hotel with water, tea and coffee included.

Total walking distance 7km

All on city streets and sights and flat.

Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink
Aphrodite Baths & Adonis Trail (B, L, D, DR)

Morning: a walk full of history, cultures and quaint churches starting first at the St Minas Chapel and then through goat led forest paths to the Adonis Trail. The trail in stages offers beautiful views of the bay and for botany enthusiasts, offers chances to experience a variety of endemic flora including sweet marjoram and the Cyprus sage. Animal lovers can also catch glimpses of foxes, hares, wood pigeons, partridges, and Cypriot warblers. Amidst the wonderous creations we enjoy optional open air worship.

Afternoon: after a picnic lunch continue walking the trail further or return to the hotel by our accompanying coach for those who wish to return earlier stroll the beach or visit the nearby fishing port of Latchi, three kilometres from the hotel.

Evening: round of your week stay with a gala farewell dinner in a local restaurant with live Cypriot music, dancing and entertainment. All local beers, wine, soft drinks and tea/coffee are included this evening.

Total walking distance 10km

Transport accompanies this day should you wish to return to the hotel earlier or shorten the distance involved. Terrain is gentle undulations with one small steep section.

Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink
Depart for the UK (B)

After breakfast bid a fond farewell to your friendly hotel team and local guide and depart for Paphos Airport for the flight back to the UK. Rooms are available until 11:00 and luggage storage and changing facilities are available for those departing on later flights so you can fully enjoy your final hours in Cyprus.

Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

Essential Information

Included excursions & walks

Optional worship in the hotels private chapel and beautiful local churches
Pilgrim Beach and Polis village walk
Foothills of the Troodos Mountains
Blue Lagoon and Manolis Bay cruise
Walking tour of Paphos’ old town Kato Paphos
Kremiotis Waterfall
Adonis Trail Walk
Cypriot cooking demonstration and lunch with a local family
Local wine and cheese tasting
Visit of Paphos Castle
Paphos Mosaic Museum

Optional excursions

None! – all excursions and extras as listed above and below are included

Included extras

Hotel Porterage
Personal audio guiding system
Driver and guide gratuities
All hotel and restaurant gratuities

Included meals & drinks

Meals: full board a full buffet breakfast each morning, six lunches and all evening meals. Some lunches will be packed lunches with some taken in local tavernas. Five dinners will be in the hotel and two in local traditional family-run tavernas with the final evening including Cypriot music and entertainment.

drinks: welcome and farewell drinks. Water and tea or coffee are included with dinners in the hotel. For the two nights out of the hotel all local beer, wine or soft drinks and tea or coffee are included.

Our team in Cyprus

Each day will also be escorted by our knowledgeable local guide who will also offer local advice, hints and tips for you to get maximum enjoyment of your time with us. Also, our dedicated McCabe Faith leader is there solely for our guests and arrange optional worship in the hotel’s private family chapel or garden as well as three locations during our excursion and walks programme. They will escort all excursions and be available for any queries.

Your journey – Direct flights from London or Manchester

The flights are direct to Paphos London or Manchester. Flights include a full 23 kilo luggage allowance and allocated seat. Regional flights to London from some UK airports as well as flight upgrades, for that comfort and ease through the airport, can be arranged at a supplement. An overnight stop in London may be required which we can assist you with. Please enquire at time of booking.

Gatwick (2023) with easyJet

Outbound departs: 07:10 arrives: 13:40

Inbound departs: 14:20 arrives: 17:20

Heathrow (2024) with British Airways

Outbound departs: 11:05 arrives: 17:55

Inbound departs: 19:05 arrives: 21:55

Manchester (2023) with easyJet

Outbound departs: 14:00 arrives: 20:05

Inbound departs: 21:25 arrives: 00:35

Manchester (2024) with easyJet

Outbound departs: 14:45 arrives: 21:30

Inbound departs: 22:10 arrives: 01:10

Flight times are subject to change and confirmed with your final paperwork

Your hotel

The Aphrodite Beach Hotel it is a small family-run hotel with just 48 rooms and is located 500 m from the beautiful, the Akamas Peninsula National Park and right on the beach which is peaceful and secluded. The hotel has remained in the same family since 1964 since being founded by Gregoria resisting offers from developers in order to respect its natural surroundings. Gregoria always wished to dedicate a church Mother Mary as a thank you gift for all the blessings that she received. So, in 2013 she had the picturesque little church built on the site which is the perfect setting for our group worship.

Hotel facilities: there are two restaurants, one in the hotel and one on the beach both offering spectacular views with the backdrop of the Troodos Mountains and Akamas National Park. Sunsets can be enjoyed from the lounge or outdoor terrace and bar.

Your hotel room: double or twin rooms newly renovated with simple modern furnishings. All rooms have air-conditioning/heating, balconies, fridge, satellite television, hairdryer and complimentary WiFi.

Hotel bathrooms: are with shower cubicle or bath-tub, on request, and provide soap, shampoo and shower gel. Ample towels are provided for bathroom and beach.

Your resort area

The surrounding nature is a big part of the food for the soul making this a wonderful week. It is a place where the clear turquoise sea, meets the hills, rocks and cliffs of the Akamas National Park. The uniqueness of the Akamas area is due not only to the indisputable charm of the natural landscape, perfect for walks, bicycle rides, bird- watching, flora, painting, but also to its cultural and mythological wealth linked with Aphrodite and perfect for contemplation and worship.

The small fishing harbour of Latchi it is situated only three kilometers away from the hotel. Latchi with its coastal boardwalk is the picturesque harbour of Polis, known throughout Cyprus for its fresh fish. In the past it served as a small port for shipping carobs. The old stone carob warehouses have been converted into restaurants, fish taverns and boutique stores making it quaint and picturesque and not a tourist trap.

Practical information

Entry requirements

British Citizen and EU Citizen Passport holders can currently enter Cyprus freely with no restrictions or other documentation required. Stays within the EU can be up to 90 days (can be spread over multiple visits) within any 180-day period.

Please note your passport must be valid for three months after your return from Cyprus.

Full details of entry requirements and any required vaccinations will be detailed in your final paperwork 14 days before departure.

For the latest and most up to date travel advice including entry requirements please consult the Foreign & Commonwealth Development Office travel advice website.

www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

Health & wellbeing

For travel within the EU you should ensure that you have the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) which is free of charge. You can apply for the GHIC card by calling 0191 218 1999 or applying on line at…

www.nhs.uk/ghic

The level of cover offered by the GHIC card varies by country visited and is only applicable in state-run health facilities. In some countries coverage may just be a partial contribution.

Adequate insurance cover will be required for all hospital emergencies and doctors’ visits.

Climate

In Cyprus the average daily maximum temperature during your stay should be as below. Coastal winds can make the temperature seem cooler and evenings will see temperatures drop by up to 10 degrees.

March: 11 - 19 degrees; April 12 - 22; May 18 - 28; September 21 - 30; October 18 - 28

Clothing

Dress is casual throughout your time in Cyprus. You may wish to take one or two smarter items for the evenings. Casual clothing is recommended in the day-time with evenings being smart/casual. As this tour requires a certain amount of gentle to intermediate walking, we suggest you take a pair of lined shoes or boots with decent grip. Sports shoes or trainers are fine as well as walking boots. It is advisable to bring some warmer clothes and layers for the evenings as well as coastal walks where the wind may reduce the temperatures.

Mobility

There is a certain amount of walking, light undulations with just one or two steep sections and a number of stairs involved on a daily basis during your time in Cyprus so please make sure you pack comfy footwear for this so that you are prepared. Your Local Guide will keep you updated on a daily basis with what to expect the following day. If you are finding it difficult to keep up then please make sure you tell your Local Guide who can help you to find places to rest and relax and then you can re-join the group at a later stage. On two days, for those who wish we reduce the walking by having transport available for those who wish to return to the hotel early.

Some streets in towns and villages that you will visit will be cobbled. We suggest you take a pair of comfortable shoes with good grips or trainers. You must be prepared to be on your feet for up to 90 minutes without the necessity to sit down and walk up to three miles unaided. Hiking sticks are fine.

The McCabe Educational Trust

The McCabe Educational Trust is an independent registered charity with the aim of helping inspiring people we meet on some of our pilgrimages. As ‘the haves’ encounter the ‘have nots’ the Trust has become a practical tool for one to help the other.

McCabe Pilgrimages invite all travellers to become partners in this work. A £20 voluntary donation to the Trust’s work is added to every pilgrim’s invoice and all money raised in this way is given in full to the projects the Trust supports. This scheme is voluntary and confidential with nobody put under any pressure to participate.

Travel insurance

Ensuring that your holidays are appropriately protected is one of our main priorities. That’s why we have specifically chosen Holiday Extras as our *preferred travel insurance provider to ensure that you are protected before and whilst you are travelling. Holiday Extras offer McCabe Travel guests favourable rates for single trip, multi-trip and annual policies.

For more information or to obtain a quote click below for their website

https://www.holidayextras.com/travel-insurance

Or call them on 0800 083 3551 to speak to a friendly advisor.

Please quote AG628 upon calling to receive the best rates

Full financial security

All money paid to McCabe is fully secure. Holidays including flights are covered by our ATOL license from the Civil Aviation Authority, and holidays without flights are protected by our membership of the ABTOT bonding scheme. If a pilgrimage is cancelled, for instance through lack of numbers or for political considerations, McCabe will promptly refund all monies paid.

AITO Quality Statement

McCabe Pilgrimages is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. The Association represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service. McCabe abides by the Association’s Code of Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality Charter.

You can read McCabe reviews on the AITO website here

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Dates

Our Programme	Tour Leader	Tour Dates	Availability
A Pilgrimage to Cyprus from Heathrow or Manchester Cyprus Akamas Peninsula Departing From Heathrow Prices from £1799 pp	The Revd Alison Shaw	28/09/2024 for 8 days	Download brochure Book now Make an enquiry

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