CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE!
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT
The management of the Polis Campsite recently passed into the hands of the local municipality after a lengthy legal battle. The Polis Chrysochous Municipality, in collaboration with the Department of Forestry, soon closed the campsite and then conducted a general clean-up operation of the immediate area. Although the campsite and its facilities remain closed the blue Flag Beach remains open to the public. Â
A NEW VENTURE
The Polis Chrysochous Municipality has since outlined a program of regeneration works earmarked for the site. Private investors will also be involved and they are currently in talks with the municipality to run the ailing campsite as a new joint enterprise.Â
A POPULAR DESTINATION
The campsite has been a popular destination, attracting visitors from all over the world wanting to experience the beauty and tranquillity of the Polis Chrysochous and Akamas areas. For years, it has provided simple, easy, relaxing accommodation for nature lovers, backpackers, families and day-trippers. The site has seen visitors return to it year after year. These visitors have often been drawn to the relaxed atmosphere, freedom of choice, beautiful surroundings, and most importantly, its cost effective hospitality.
FRAGRANT EUCALYPTUS TREES
Nestled amongst fragrant eucalyptus trees by the sandy blue flag beach, the campsite has been a feature of the area for many years. It has provided a simple, easy retreat for holidaymakers on a budget. The campsite itself has been in operation for several decades and many have used it as a base for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The campsite had a simple, but full range of facilities that included tent pitches, caravan and motor home spaces, and basic amenities. These included toilets and showers. Although staggered improvements were made over the years, the standards fell well short according to the local municipality.Â
A LEGAL BATTLE
The Cyprus Tourism Organisation originally opened the campsite to the public in the early 1980s. and Ever since then, a private manager has run the site. In 2011 however, the local municipality took ownership in collaboration with the Forestry Department. Problems began when the new owners decided that the site needed upgrading. This ultimately led to a failed eviction of the long-term site manager and a legal battle, which began in 2017, ensued. This all resulted in an out-of-court settlement in late 2023, and with this, the municipality finally took full control of the campsite. Plans, which have gathered dust since 2008, have now been brought forward and the projected cost of the regeneration program has been set at €2.5 million.
REGENERATION
The municipality has stated that the project to renovate the campsite will include a number of new on-site facilities. These facilities will include a number of new local amenities. These will include a restaurant on the beach, a new mini market, a dedicated play and recreation centre area for children and adults. They have also stated that they intend to include new public changing areas with public toilets and showers. A new paved road will also be installed. A clearly designated zone for up to 20 caravans with electricity and fresh clean water will also be installed. A secure zone for tents will be allocated closer to the coast with footpaths guiding visitors down to the beach.Â
REGENERATION
A small artificial pond has also been proposed for the area where a natural spring pools. The municipality, along with other interested parties have stated that the new plan will preserve the site and will ensure that none of the charm or magic will be lost. It has also been noted that the plans include the protection of the campsite’s iconic eucalyptus trees. The plans indicate, however, that they will be reduced in size but will still exist along with the planned introduction of new carob trees.
BARBEQUE & BACKGAMMON
The campsite has always been a perfect place to relax with its air of tranquillity, idyllic scenes and rustic charm. To some, the campsite has always represented a certain freedom that most agree, is being slowly and gradually eroded on the island. Many have spent their days at the beach bar enjoying a lovely laid-back affair, along with their evenings in front of an open fire after their barbeque, playing backgammon until the early hours. Many of these people have voiced concerns. They state that this is yet another classic example of modernisation and development with business in mind, under the guise of health and safety. Most are suggesting that when the resulting regeneration works are complete, the site will become too expensive. spoiling the place forever. It does remain to be seen!Â
Intercity bus to Paphos or Polis
and then Bus 622, 641, 643Α or 645
