Polis and Latchi - Traditional Cyprus

City of the Golden land

Polis is a small town 37km west of Paphos. Its full name Polis tis Chrysochous, means City of the golden land, after the fertile land that once surrounded the area. On site was once the ancient kingdom of Marion. The whole are is full of Hellenistic Tombs in which imported Attic pottery was found with some older specimens from the 6th tot he 4th century BC.

Here at this western tip of Cyprus one will find peace and tranquillity as nowhere else on the island. Despite the increase in tourism in the last few years, Polis maintains its relaxed pace and calm atmosphere. Its traditional character is obvious from the small houses with wooden balconies and staircases typical of early 29th century architecture.

Nearby is the Akamas Peninsula with beautiful scenery and majestic beache. Here are the baths of Aphrodite, a pool of a natural grotto shaded by a fig tree where according to legend the goddess used to bathe. The nature trails that start from here pass through amazing landscapes of pure nature.

In the same area lies Latchi, a small fishing port and formerly a sponge diving centre. This is the ideal place to get a rest in a taverna just before you move further into the rocky Akamas. Seafood never tasted so good so be sure to ask for the catch of the day. The area is perfect for scuba diving with many diving schools in the area that offer diving courses and organised dives.

The beaches in Polis and Latchi offer the visitor a choice of scenery. Just know that whatever it is you choose to do, this part of the island will always remain deep in your heart.