Nearby lies Amathous (1000 BC), an archaeological site with temple remains dedicated to Aphrodite, Adonis and Hercules, as well as the ruins of a bathhouse, the Acropolis, and a basilica.

At the southern end of the old harbour stands Limassol Castle. Founded in the 13th century, it was repeatedly rebuilt over the years by the Venetians, Turks, and British. Inside, there is an interesting Medieval Museum.

Next, we visit Lady's Mile Beach on the Akrotiri Peninsula (12 x 8 km) and grab a coffee. The beach was named after a British officer's mare that was allowed to gallop here. We then drive along a sandy track down the peninsula until we reach a military restricted area. We follow the barbed-wire rolls until we hit a road that leads us to the monastery of Agios Nikolaos ton Gaton.

Further along the peninsula tour, we visit the monastery of Agios Nikolaos ton Gaton (St. Nicholas of the Cats). In the 4th century, Saint Helena gave the monks cats to help fight the venomous snakes living here.

Shortly after, we pass Akrotiri Salt Lake, where flamingos spend the winter. We spot a few hundred – there were once as many as 18,000. During the winter months the lake fills with rainwater, while in summer it dries out and attracts off-road enthusiasts for test drives.

The Fasouri Plantation accompanies us on the way to our next stop. The air is filled with the scent of citrus fruits, and every now and then you see roadside stalls selling fresh produce.

We then reach Kolossi, an old fortress. Crusaders sought refuge here in 1291 after being driven from the Holy Land. The impressive complex with its restored keep and numerous ruins is well worth a visit.

A little further west, the most impressive archaeological site in Cyprus awaits – Kourion. Here we find Roman baths, various ruins, the restored amphitheatre "Odeon," the gladiators' quarters, a Roman house destroyed by an earthquake, the Roman house of Eustolios, and the house of Achilles. An absolute must-see.

A few kilometres further lies the sanctuary of Apollo Hylates. Visible remains include a small, partially restored section of the Apollo Temple and the ruins of residential buildings and a bathhouse.

A mandatory stop is at Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite's Rock). Legend has it that Aphrodite emerged from the sea in a shell and came ashore here. It is a wonderful spot to enjoy a sunset. Nearby you will also find the Sanctuary of Aphrodite.