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Cyprus – The Path of St. Paul & St. Barnabas

Prices from £2,149 pp

Single Supplement £449

Next available tour:

Tour leader: The Revd Mary Bowden

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Staying in five-star beach hotels with meals and drinks included

St. Barnabas was a prominent early Christian figure and disciple of Jesus Christ. According to tradition, he was born in Cyprus and became a follower of Jesus during the ministry of John the Baptist. He is first mentioned in the Bible in the book of Acts, where he is described as a “good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith.”

On this twin centre pilgrimage we stay three nights in northern Cyprus near Famagusta close to where St. Paul first stepped foot on Cyprus in 45 AD, known at the time as The Kingdom of Salamis. It was once the island's most important port city and a gateway to trade with the ports of the Levant, from where the Silk Road merchants carried their goods to Western Europe.

We continue to Larnaca following the same route as St. Barnabas and St. Paul, nearly 2.000 years ago, where we stay for four nights. We visit the ancient city of Kition and visit the Church of St. Lazarus named for the New Testament figure Lazarus of Bethany, the subject of a miracle recounted in the Gospel of John, in which Jesus raises him from the dead. According to Eastern Orthodox tradition, sometime after the Resurrection of Jesus, Lazarus was forced to flee Judea because of rumoured plots on his life and came to Cyprus. There he was appointed by Paul the Apostle and Barnabas as the first Bishop of Kition (now Larnaca).

We also 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.

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Itinerary

  1. Travel to Cyprus (D, DR)

    Morning: meet your Tour Leader at Heathrow and check-in for your direct flight to Larnaca.

    Afternoon: arrive in Larnaca where you will be met by your Local Guide and escorted to your luxury five-star spa hotel, just over an hours drive away in Famagusta across the border in northern Cyprus. On route enjoy an introduction on Cyprus and the local area. Check-in to your hotel for a three-night stay, relax and enjoy the hotels many facilities.

    Evening: join together in worship and get to know your fellow pilgrims over a welcome drink followed by dinner in the hotel. All drinks and tea or coffee are included each evening, both in the restaurant and hotel bar, until midnight.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, MC = Morning Coffee/Tea, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  2. Kingdom of Salamis & St. Barnabus Monastery (B, MC, L, D, DR)

    Morning: we take a scenic beach walk to the point where St. Paul and St. Barnabas first stepped foot on Cyprus in 45 AD, known at the time as The Kingdom of Salamis. We visit the Sun Mosaic, tour the Temple of Zeus, Roman ampitheatre , baths, and gymnasium.

    Afternoon: included lunch in a local restaurant followed by a visit to the Salamis Kings Tombs and Museum. St. Barnabas is recognised as the founder of the Cypriot Orthodox Church in Salamis. We also visit the Archaeological Museum of the Apostle Barnabas and the church, where his body was located in a small cave and have a short worship.

    Evening: dinner in the hotel with all drinks and tea or coffee included from 6pm until midnight.

    Walking distance: 7km all on smooth, flat terrain. The monastery is 3.5km from the hotel (one hour 20 mins walk) and after the visit to the monastery a taxi can be arranged (at own cost) for those not wishing to walk the return journey.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, MC = Morning Coffee/Tea, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  3. Ancient Sipahi mosaics & Apostolos Andreas Monastery (B, MC, L, D, DR)

    Morning: (remember your swimwear!) part by coach and part on foot today we start with a stroll together to the fishing village of Bogaz and witness the locals bring their daily catch ashore and to market. After an included coffee/tea break we drive to the Karpaz Peninsula to the remains of the ancient city of Sipahi with its variety of mosaic patterns in the ruined basilica floor. Discovered by accident in 1957 the floor shows mosaic sandals, representing pilgrimage, they look exactly like the ones worn today!

    Afternoon: we continue to visit the Apostolos Andreas (St. Andrews) Monastery. It was once known as "the Lourdes of Cyprus", served not by an organised community of monks but by a changing group of volunteer priests and laymen. Both Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities consider the monastery a holy place. As such it is visited by many people for votive prayers. Here we join in worship and the enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach with time to swim before returning to the hotel.

    Evening: dinner in the hotel with all drinks and tea or coffee included from 6pm until midnight.

    Walking distance: 5 km in total all mostly flat with some gravel terrain at the ancient sites.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, MC = Morning Coffee/Tea, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  4. Famagusta Old Town, Larnaca & St. Lazarus Church (B, MC, L, D, DR)

    Morning: checkout and depart for the short drive to Famagusta which possesses the deepest harbour of the island. During the Middle Ages (especially under the maritime republics of Genoa and Venice), Famagusta was the island's most important port city and a gateway to trade with the ports of the Levant, from where the Silk Road merchants carried their goods to Western Europe. We will have the opportunity to tour the walled city, enjoy an included coffee/tea stop and then visit Othello's Tower, the Venetian Palace and the best Gothic architecture in Cyprus including the Cathedral of Agios Nikolaos, as well as the dungeon of the great Turkish poet, Namik Kemal.

    Afternoon: continue to Larnaca following the same route as St. Barnabas and St. Paul, nearly 2.000 years ago. We visit the ancient city of Kition and visit the Church of St. Lazarus named for the New Testament figure Lazarus of Bethany, the subject of a miracle recounted in the Gospel of John, in which Jesus raises him from the dead. According to Eastern Orthodox tradition, sometime after the Resurrection of Jesus, Lazarus was forced to flee Judea because of rumoured plots on his life and came to Cyprus. There he was appointed by Paul the Apostle and Barnabas as the first Bishop of Kition (now Larnaca). He is said to have lived for thirty more years and on his death was buried there for the second and last time. The was built over the reputed (second) tomb of Lazarus. after, continue to your five-star beach hotel and check-in for a four-night stay.

    Evening: meet your fellow pilgrims and stroll together for dinner in a local restaurant with one glass of beer, wine or soft drink and tea or coffee included.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, MC = Morning Coffee/Tea, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  5. Lefkara Village & Machairas Monastery (B, MC, D, DR)

    Morning: we take a scenic drive through the Troodos Mountains to the picturesque village of Lefkara. Known for its Cypriot folk needlecraft and lace making, the famous “lefkaritiko” can be witnessed by observing and meeting the friendly locals around the village with its characteristic Cypriot houses. After, we continue to the only organic olive farm on Cyprus surrounded by beautiful scenery with its ornate garden. Learn about the olive oil making process as well as enjoying a tasting.

    Afternoon: after, continue a scenic drive through the mountains to Lazania and the historic Machairas Monastery, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Set in a beautiful valley at an altitude of about 900 metres the monastery was founded at the end of the 12th century and houses the miraculous icon of Panagia (the Virgin Mary) of Machairas, which is attributed to Agios Loukas (Apostle Luke) the Evangelist.

    Evening: dinner in a local restaurant with one glass of beer, wine or soft drink and tea or coffee included.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, MC = Morning Coffee/Tea, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  6. Ancient Kourion & Limassol (B, MC, D, DR)

    Morning: drive to Ancient Kourion, defiantly perched on a hillside, with a sweeping view of the surrounding patchwork fields and the sea. Admire the impressive view of the substantial city ruins as well as the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Cemetery of the Gate of Amathus, the House of Duelists, the House of Achilles, Roman agora and the stoa, with its colonnade of 16 marble columns which sits alongside the early Christian basilica.

    Afternoon: continue to Limassol and tour the Old Town, the picturesque fishing harbour and marina. We take a stroll through the ancient castle, see the wedding hall of Richard the Lionheart, who married in Limassol, when he married Berengaria of Navarre, the only Queen of England who never stepped foot in England. Also, we visit and the traditional Ottoman baths that are still in operation today and finish at the marina for free time to wander and shop.

    Evening: dinner in a local restaurant with one glass of beer, wine or soft drink and tea or coffee included.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, MC = Morning Coffee/Tea, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  7. Paphos, St. Paul Pillar Church & Mosaic Museum (B, MC, D, DR)

    Morning: 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 time for lunch (at own cost) 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.

    Evening: farewell dinner in a local restaurant with all drinks and tea or coffee included in a local taverna.

    Walking distance: 7km all on city streets and sights and flat.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, MC = Morning Coffee/Tea, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  8. Return to the UK (B)

    Morning: after breakfast depart for Larnaca Airport, bid farewell to your Local Guide and check-in for the flight back to the UK.

    Afternoon: arrive at Heathrow and say goodbye to your Tour Leader and new-found travelling friends.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, MC = Morning Coffee/Tea, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

Essential Information

Included excursions & walks

  • Kingdom of Salamis Bay guided walk
  • Visit and worship in the St. Barnabus Monastery
  • Ancient City of Sipahi and mosaics tour
  • Visit and worship in the St. Andrews Monastery
  • Famagusta Old Town and St. Nicholas Cathedral tour
  • Visit and worship in the St. Lazarus church
  • Lefkara village tour and organic olive farm with tasting
  • Visit and worship in the Machairas Monastery
  • Ancient City of Kourion tour
  • Limassol Old Town and harbour tour
  • Walking tour of Paphos’ old town Kato Paphos
  • 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
  • Morning coffee/tea daily and drinks with meals

Included meals & drinks

Meals: a full luxury buffet breakfast each morning, three lunches and all evening meals. Two lunches will be a packed lunch and the other taken in a local taverna. During your three nights in Famagusta, dinners will be in the hotel and for the four nights in Larnaca you will eat in traditional family-run tavernas with the final evening including Cypriot music and entertainment.

Drinks: welcome and farewell drinks. For the three nights in Famagusta all drinks, bottled water, tea and coffee are included from 6pm until midnight. For your four nights in Larnaca we include a glass of beer, wine or soft drink as well as water, tea or coffee with your dinners. For the farewell dinner unlimited beer, wine or soft drinks as well as water, tea or coffee are included.

Our team in Cyprus

On arrival you will be met and each day will 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 will arrange optional in the hotels as well as at some sites during your included excursions. They will escort all excursions and be available for any queries.

Your journey

The flights are direct to Larnaca from London Heathrow with British Airways.  Regional flights to Heathrow 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.

Outbound journey

Flight BA0664 departs Heathrow: 06:45                   arrives Larnaca: 13:25

Return journey

Flight BA0665 departs Larnaca: 14:20                       arrives Heathrow: 17:25

Length of flight to Larnaca: four hours and 40 minutes

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

Your hotels

FAMAGUSTA: SALAMIS BAY CONTI BEACH RESORT & SPA (5*)

Located on the shores of historical Salamis Beach with its fine golden sands and crystal clear water. The area is known for being the habitat of the famous Caretta turtles, where you can observe them while swimming, sunbathing or walking on the beach. Its a 20 minute stroll to the small town of Agios Sergios with its local amenities.

Hotel facilities: private beach, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, steam, sauna, tennis courts, spa and wellness centre, beauty salon, hairdressers, on site mini-market, gift shop, pool bar, beach bar and lounge bar with nightly entertainment.

Your hotel room: spacious modern rooms with a balcony and sea or pool views with air-conditioning/heating, fridge/minibar, kettle and complimentary WiFi.

Hotel bathrooms: walk-in shower, hairdryer, ample towels for the pool and a range of complimentary toiletries.

 

LARNACA: RADISSON BEACH RESORT (5*)

Set on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounded by idyllic beaches, the Radisson Beach Resort Larnaca offers everything you need for the perfect island getaway in an uplifting seafront setting. The hotel is within walking distance of idyllic beaches, cafes, bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops, and just a short 5km drive from the city center. Taxis are readily available.

Hotel facilities: private beach access, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, fitness centre, spa, wellness centre and beauty shop. Pool bar, beach bar and lounge bar with nightly music.

Your hotel room: spacious modern rooms with a balcony or terrace with garden or sea views with air-conditioning/heating, fridge/minibar, iron and ironing board, tea and coffee facilities and complimentary WiFi.

Hotel bathrooms: walk-in shower, shaving mirror, hairdryer, ample towels for the pool and a range of complimentary toiletries.

 

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. However please note that for entry to northern Cyprus six months validity is required so please ensure that your passport is valid for six months after your return home. 

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.

April 12 - 22;   May 18 - 28;   September 21 - 30;   October 18 - 28;   November 12 - 22

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  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 and 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 The Path of St. Paul & St. Barnabas Departing From Heathrow Prices from £2149 pp The Revd Mary Bowden 17/04/2024 for 8 days Download brochure Book now Make an enquiry
A Pilgrimage to Cyprus The Path of St. Paul & St. Barnabas Departing From Heathrow Prices from £2149 pp Call for Details 06/11/2024 for 8 days Download brochure Book now Make an enquiry

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