A Mythical Beginning at Aphrodite’s Rock

As the sun began its ascent over the Mediterranean, I found myself on a journey to the legendary Aphrodite’s Rock. The air was warm, a gentle reminder of the Caribbean sun I know so well, and the anticipation of exploring a new coastline was exhilarating. Our guide, Eva, was a fountain of knowledge, weaving tales of Greek mythology as we approached the fabled birthplace of the goddess of beauty. The rock itself stood majestically against the azure sea, a perfect photo opportunity that I couldn’t resist. While I longed to dip my toes in the waters nearby, the tour’s schedule kept us moving, leaving the beach for another day.

Ancient Echoes at Kourion and Kolossi Castle

Our next stop was the archaeological site of Kourion, a place where history seemed to whisper from every stone. Walking through the ancient Greco-Roman theatre, I could almost hear the echoes of past performances, a testament to the enduring spirit of this island. The Roman baths, with their intricate mosaics, were a reminder of the luxury that once graced this land. As a lover of the ocean and its stories, I found a kindred spirit in these ancient ruins, each telling its own tale of time and tide.

Kolossi Castle was our next destination, a medieval fortress that stood as a guardian of history. Built in the 12th century, it was once a stronghold for the Crusaders and a producer of the famed Commandaria wine. The castle’s stone walls seemed to hold secrets of battles and banquets, a stark contrast to the laid-back island life I cherish. Yet, there was a certain thrill in walking through its halls, imagining the lives that once filled this space.

Savoring the Flavors of Omodos

The mountain-wrapped village of Omodos was a charming escape, its cobbled streets inviting us to wander and explore. The monastery of the Holy Cross, one of the oldest on the island, offered a moment of reflection amidst the day’s adventures. But it was the wine tasting at Ktima Gerolemo that truly captured my heart. Sampling six varieties, each sip was a journey of its own, paired perfectly with local nibbles. The air-conditioned bus was a welcome respite from the heat, a reminder of the Caribbean breezes I often chase.

While the timing of the wine tasting could have been better placed after our visit to Omodos, the experience was nonetheless delightful. As the day came to a close, I found myself reflecting on the rich tapestry of history and culture that Cyprus offers. This tour was a perfect taster of the island’s wonders, and I left with a promise to return, perhaps to surf its waves or simply to bask in its beauty once more. Aphrodite’s Rock and Kourion Tour