CYPRUS SUNSETS
The best places to watch the sunset in Cyprus
A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE
Whilst most take the Cyprus sunset for granted, others are often found travelling across the island to witness the spectacle from different viewpoints. Several also state that they are not limited to coastal areas, and that they have recorded several grand sunsets across the whole island. When asked why they do this, most sunset seekers agree that the endearing and truly magical Cyprus sunsets, once recorded, help to create lasting memories.
THE WESTERN COAST
Sunset seekers and tourists are constantly on the search for the best location to record the event. Although the western coast of the island, which offers completely unobstructed, fiery views of the sun sinking directly into the sea, is widely considered the best area to observe a stunning Cyprus sunset, several other places offer both unique and equally beautiful experiences.
CREATING ENDEARING MEMORIES
Indeed, some truly amazing places to observe a Cyprus sunset exist across the island. All of these places offer a unique viewpoint of this natural phenomenon with their dramatic scenery and beautiful settings for photos at dusk. With this in mind, several people constantly strive to discover where these places are and this helps to create the most memorable and unique environment for a sunset.
RECOMMENDED VIEWPOINTS FOR SOME STUNNING SUNSETS
A LIST OF THE BEST PLACES TO WITNESS A SUNSET IN CYPRUS
Here are some suggestions for various locations across the island, spanning coasts, hills, and mountainous areas that offer some of the best sunsets throughout the year.
FAMAGUSTA DISTRICT
CAPE GRECO
A day here can also be spent taking in some of the fantastic trails in the Cape Greco National Park. With its most stunning panoramic views, the rewarding sunset here is definitely worth waiting for.
LOVER'S BRIDGE
This can be found on the south-eastern tip of the island. This showstopper uses a natural rock formation that conveniently sits high up across naturally eroded coastal cliffs. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this natural stone arch seems to frame the sunset perfectly. This backdrop perfectly offsets a stunning array of colours as the sun gently kisses the horizon. The blend of fiery reds and calming purples perfectly shimmer above the peaceful Mediterranean waters, making this place truly special at sunset.
LARNACA DISTRICT
FINIKOUDES PROMENADE
A convenient urban sunset spot that is enhanced by the palm tree-lined promenade. The western view of the setting sun setting over the LARNACA FORT creates a truly iconic signature Cyprus sunset. Burnt orange and deep red hues that seem to gently kiss the Mediterranean Sea are often observed here as the sun slowly sinks into the sea.
STAVROVOUNI
This inland area, which translates to ‘crossed mountains’, in Greek, offers a stunning viewpoint at sunset. Described by many as simply out of this world, this vantage point features a natural mountainous setting. The sky from this elevated viewpoint seems to be lower than normal. This often creates something that looks more like a large-scale work of art. As the sun takes its final bow behind the mountains, the colours, high up in the foothills, are further enhanced by the stunning natural rural countryside that adequately frames the scene.
LARNACA SALT LAKES
The unique sunsets here often transform into a shimmering golden oasis. As the sun takes its leave, it bathes the shallow lake in a soft, golden light. The white salt deposits then sparkle and tend to reflect the beautiful, gentle colours at sunset, creating yet another unique experience. The presence of flamingos during the winter, as well as other migrating birds, often creates a unique scene that truly distinguishes this place. These lakes often serve as a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, who also often appreciate the stunning sunsets here.
PAPHOS DISTRICT
PEYIA SEA CAVES
Off the beaten path, this location is often described as a grand fairy tale setting at sunset. Offering some truly stunning views, peace, tranquillity, solitude and seclusion, the whole area is often transformed into a warm, golden, dreamy setting at sunset. As the fiery red sun lowers, several rays of red hue begin to play with both light and shadow within the caves. These seem to enhance the blues of the sea, which also reflect kindly on the sky. The famous EDRO III shipwreck can be seen in the distance, adding to the surreal scenery.
APRODITE'S ROCK
The goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite, is said to have been born at this location. Whether this legend is believed or not, it does not detract from the fact that this is quite a formidable place to witness a truly stunning sunset. The viewpoint from APHRODITES ROCK is further enhanced by its secluded beach setting. This landmark creates a unique feature against an awe-inspiring sunset backdrop. The sea below at dusk often seems to sparkle, helping to enhance the sunset here.
ALSOS BEACH
The sea caves here, along with the gentle shoreline and rock formations, glow with great ambience at the golden hour. This helps to create a truly stunning place to witness a sunset. The sun here at dusk seems to soak up the beauty of its surroundings, and because of this, the viewpoint here is further enhanced by its secluded beach setting. This also helps to create a magnificent backdrop.
CORAL BAY
The clear sea, headland views, and steady sunset silhouettes over the water help to create a fairy tale setting here at sunset. Closest to the setting sun in the west, this location has often been described as a plethora of colour at sunset. The deep reds tend to play with the deep blue of the sea, creating rich purple hues that seem to enhance this picture postcard setting.
AKAMAS
Sunsets here are often more dramatic. This is mainly because of the area’s westerly vantage point and the unspoilt natural rural landscape. The unobstructed views of the natural coastal setting help to create one of the most beautiful, serene places to watch the sun go down.
PAPHOS MEDIEVAL CASTLE
The castle in the picturesque Paphos harbour is magnificent at any time of day, but there’s something rather magical about it at sunset. Spending sunset at a nearby harbour bar or restaurant allows for a well-earned drink or meal while watching the beautiful display in the sky.
PYRGOS TYLLIRIAS
The secluded beaches on the north-west coast of Cyprus offer yet another area that has natural, unobstructed views of the sun setting. This secluded coast often portrays sunset scenes of biblical proportions.
LIMASSOL DISTRICT
AKROTIRI SAND DUNES
Sunsets here are often defined by the silhouettes of kite surfers, who are often found riding the waves of the dunes regularly while the sun sets. Although the sky here is often painted with several warm colours, it’s the kite surfers that seem to add an extra layer of excitement. This often helps to create a somewhat unique scene that seems to enhance the sunset here.
KOURION
The warm colours at sunset, as well as the unique surroundings of the Curium archaeological site, often help to create memorable scenes. The sky at sunset is often enhanced by the ancient, dramatic ruins of the amphitheatre. With this in mind, a uniquely Cypriot scene is often created by the ancient structures in front of the setting sun. The coastline’s dramatic cliffs also play a role in creating yet another unique backdrop. The timeless scenary here is guaranteed to deliver an amazing and awe-inspiring experience to all visitors.
GOVERNOR'S BEACH
A dramatic sunset set against folded sand and gentle cliffs often creates endearing, memorable sunset moments. Sunsets here are further enhanced by the coastline’s gentle cliffs that also help to create a unique backdrop.
ENAERIOS PIER
The pier itself, which is greatly enhanced at sunset, is located in the heart of the coastal City of Limassol. Also popular for wedding photos, the pier has also become a somewhat romantic spot in itself. Although very close to the city’s lively nightlife, it is often a peaceful and serene place at sunset. As it gently stretches out to the sea, the pier often helps to create the feeling that seems to make people closer to the glorious sun at sunset.
TROODOS PEAKS
Watching a sunset from an elevated area is really special, and Troodos Peaks is one of the highest places to observe the event on the island. It’s well worth the journey up the mountain roads to visit this tranquil spot and take in a wonderful sunset. With views of the treetops and mountainous surroundings, it is also truly a fantastic location for a quiet moment of reflection.
