AYIA THEKLA

Ayia Thekla: A Pictorial Journey through Cyprus' Best-Kept Secret

Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Cyprus lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered – Ayia Thekla. Often overshadowed by its more renowned counterparts, Ayia Thekla stands as a serene retreat that boasts tranquillity, natural beauty, and a unique charm that captivates every traveller's heart. In this pictorial journey, we'll unveil the allure of Ayia Thekla, offering a glimpse into why it deserves a coveted spot on your travel itinerary.

The Enchanting Landscape
As we embark on this visual exploration, the breathtaking landscape of Ayia Thekla unfolds before us. Crystal-clear azure waters meet pristine sandy beaches, framed by rugged cliffs and lush greenery. Each photograph encapsulates the essence of a destination that seamlessly blends natural wonders, creating a picturesque haven for those seeking solace.

Architectural Marvels
Ayia Thekla isn't just about sun and sea; it's a treasure trove of architectural marvels. Our pictorial journey takes you through the quaint village, showcasing traditional Cypriot houses, charming chapels, and winding cobblestone streets. These images narrate a story of a place where history meets contemporary allure.

 The Tranquil Bays and Beaches
Get ready to be transported to secluded bays and pristine beaches, where time seems to stand still. The images capture the tranquillity of Ayia Thekla's lesser-known spots, inviting you to unwind amidst nature's embrace. Discover your own private piece of paradise, away from the hustle and bustle.

 Rich Cultural Heritage
Ayia Thekla isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's a destination steeped in history and culture. Our pictorial journey delves into the cultural tapestry of the region, showcasing ancient ruins, archaeological sites, and local traditions that add depth to the Ayia Thekla experience.

Ayia Thekla Beach

Ayia Thekla is the most Westerly beach in Ayia Napa and consists of a small main beach and lots of small private patches of sand along the coastline. It is generally a quiet beach but gets busier during peak season and national holidays when many of the nearby holiday villas are occupied by visitors. This is a more off-the-beaten-track beach for those looking to get away from the main tourist beaches.

​Ayia Thekla is a newly developed area on the western edge of Ayia Napa. Building here began in the late 1990s and today it is a modern collection of villa estates strung along the coast for several miles. Recently a large hotel development has been built on the seafront by the beach. Just east of the beach is Ayia Thekla church and a collection of ancient tombs in the rocks.

Ayia Thekla Beach has a beach restaurant and bar as well as toilets and changing facilities.

Kite surfers and paragliders also use Ayia Thekla Beach for practice and it is a popular spot for jogging and walking along the coastal pathway. In Spring the area is a riot of wildflowers and the seashore is very pretty. The new Ayia Napa marina is also close by.

The main beach is a small horseshoe of soft sand with several rocky islands just a short way out. It's safe and sheltered for kids with a rock pool to explore along the edges of the beaches and rocky island. For several miles west towards Potamos Liopetri the rocky shoreline is interspersed with small private patches of golden sand, ideal for those looking for a quiet sunbathing spot.

EXPLORING TREASURES

 Ayia Thekla Chapel

Cultural Excursions and Natural Wonders
While the villa itself may feel like a world of its own, Ayia Napa offers a treasure trove of experiences beyond your doorstep. Discover the rich history of Cyprus with visits to nearby cultural sites, such as the Ayia Napa Monastery. For nature enthusiasts, Cape Greco National Forest Park provides hiking trails and breathtaking views of the rugged coastline.

Ayia Napa Monastery

The Ayia Napa monastery is located in the very centre of the town. The name "Ayia Napa" comes from "Icon of Virgin Mary of the forest", and means Holy Forest after an icon of the Virgin Mary was found by a hunter in a cave in the woods here. The hunter’s dog was first to see the glowing icon and began barking calling over his master. Many believers heard about the icon and started visiting the cave to see the icon and it became a holy place. The icon is believed to have been put in the cave during the 7th-8th century during the period of iconoclasm when religious images were destroyed.

It is not known exactly when the monastery was built but the church around the cave where the icon was found was built in the 14th century. There is evidence of a Christian community here from the Byzantine era so Ayia Napa got its name before the year 1366.

The monastery as it is today was built in the 15th century with the cave church at its centre. It was built by the Venetians who were the rulers of Cyprus at that time.

Sculpture Park Ayia Napa

Ayia Napa's sculpture park was inaugurated in 2014 with the aim of creating a completely new tourist experience. The open-air sculpture museum features both large and small works of art created by more than 40 sculptors from around the world.

Located at the eastern edge of Ayia Napa the sculpture park covers an area of 20,000 sq.m. The rocky landscape slopes down to the sea and provides a serene and peaceful backdrop to this visually exciting display of modern artwork.

Ayia Napa's Marine and History Museum - Thalassa Museum

The Thalassa Museum in Ayia Napa is located a few minutes walk from the town centre and also from the harbour. It is operated by the Pierides Foundation, in association with the Hellenic Institute for the Preservation of Nautical Tradition and the Tornaritis-Pierides Marine Life Foundation. It opened in 2005 and gives visitors a huge insight into the local culture of Ayia Napa and the wider area of Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean.

The main focus of the museum is the sea and its impact on the history and traditions of the island of Cyprus. The exhibits of the museum cover a wide chronological span, from paleontological and prehistoric periods up to present times.

The museum is a three-story building made of marble, onyx, wood, metal and has an appealing, open aspect making it easy to enjoy the exhibits.

The Famous Sea Caves

The Ayia Napa sea caves are a must-see landmark along the stunning coastline at the edge of Ayia Napa. Marking the start of the Cape Greco National Forest Park, there are impressive rock bridges, hidden caves and tunnels. As well as being amazing to look at, the sea caves extend for up to 80 metres underground and are only partially submerged. They can be explored on foot at low tide and this area is popular for snorkeling, diving and just swimming in the crystal clear water. The legend is that the caves were once used by pirates to store their bounty and the cavernous tunnels, bridges and rock formations were a perfect spot for the seafarers to hide out.

The Ayia Napa sea caves can be reached by land and sea and almost all boat trips from Ayia Napa stop here to view the caves and dramatic natural structures.

There are many activities that can be enjoyed at the sea caves including fishing, cliff jumping, diving, snorkeling and swimming in the crystal clear waters.

​The 10 metre high cliffs are a popular place with cliff jumpers and local fishermen say this is a great spot to catch octopus. There is an abundance of sea life to be observed and the caves are an impressive sight from both sea level and from the cliffs above. 

EATING OUT

​Nissaki Beach bar - located at Ayia Thekla Beach on the western edge of Ayia Napa. With an extensive menu of classic and modern dishes, Nissaki is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as drinks and snacks.  Telephone +357 23725151. Closed for Winter.

Ayia Thekla Loucas Restaurant - located on the beach road. Telephone +357 96932929

There are many more restaurants to choose from in neighbouring Ayia Napa. Here are a few:

Flames Restaurant and bar - Flames is ranked as one of TripAdvisor's Top 20 restaurants in Ayia Napa, Cyprus. Serving Traditional Cyprus and International dishes. Telephone +357 23722774

Dione Restaurant - Dione is located on Nissi Beach Avenue of Ayia Napa, Cyprus, next to Adams Beach Hotel. It is set in spacious, peaceful surroundings facing the sea. Telephone +357 23924140

Acropolis Restaurant - traditional restaurant on Nissi Avenue. Telephone +357 23724814

Sesoula Kalamkai - a traditional Greek restaurant founded in 2015. Telephone +357 23 725525

Fish House Restaurant - situated in the harbour. Telephone +357 99988600

GROCERY SHOPPING

Ayia Thekla Supermarket. Offers a huge variety of products including many UK brands, at low prices. The supermarket’s location can be found on Google Maps.

Alpha Mega Supermarket is located in Ayia Napa's Marina.

TRANSPORTATION

Buses

A regular bus service operates in the area. Visit Cyprus by Bus to view routes and times.

Car hire

The Villa Group can assist with car hire, view our Extras page

Bike and Quad Rentals

To make the most of your visit, consider renting a bike or a quad bike to explore at your own pace.

Easy Riders Rental Ayia Napa. Telephone +357 99627016

Moto Rent. Telephone +357 23723225

Rainbow Rentals. Telephone + 357 2372188

ESSENTIAL SERVICES

The area boasts several well-equipped pharmacies and a private medical centre ensuring that your health and well-being are in good hands during your stay.

Marios Michaelides Pharmacy, Nissi Avenue. Telephone +357 23722316

Petinos Pharmacy, Nissi Avenue. Telephone +357 23723192

Tryfonn Prodromou - Schwitzer Pharmacy, Nissi Avenue. Telephone +357 23724380

Saveco Health Centre. Telephone +357 23816512. The hospital's location can be found on Google Maps

Santa Marina Medical Health Centre. Telephone +357 23811999. The hospital's location can be found on Google Maps

Banking and ATMs: The nearest banks and ATMs are located on Nissi Avenue.

DISTANCES FROM AYIA THEKLA

Larnaca International Airport 50 km

Paphos International Airport 165 km

Protaras 17 km

Larnaca 40 km

Limassol 100 km

Paphos 170 km