Cyprus WELCOME TO. 2 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

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1 Cyprus PAPHOS 2018

2 WELCOME TO Cyprus Nestled in the far southeast of Europe, Cyprus is a Mediterranean gem which, due to its southerly position, enjoys warm sunshine when most of Europe is still battling the cold. Cyprus position in the eastern Mediterranean has also given the island an amazingly varied history: over thousands of years the Greeks, Phoenicians, Egyptians, Romans, Ottomans and British have all landed on Cypriot shores and shaped the island s culture. the wild and untouched Akamas Peninsula. Diversity is certainly one of Cyprus traits. These different cultures left a huge array of temples, tombs, mosaics, churches and castles, but perhaps the biggest surprise is the backdrop for these historic treasures Cyprus incredibly diverse landscape. Our base for the week is the town of Paphos (often spelt Pafos), which provides easy access to these varied landscapes, as well as being home to a host of historic sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Nea Pafos archaeological site and the Tomb of the Kings. Additionally, Paphos provides a good selection of shops and facilities to make your stay more comfortable, not to mention sweeping beaches and wonderful views out over the sparkling Mediterranean. The picturesque beaches are expected, but just a short journey takes you into the incredible Troodos Mountains (a ski resort in winter), with pine forest, lush green valleys and well stocked vineyards, or to 2 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk Aphrodite s island is perfect for a walking holiday in early spring or late autumn, when the temperatures are most pleasant. We ll walk wellestablished trails between Byzantine churches, past waterfalls and foothill villages.

3 ACCOMMODATION ATHENA BEACH HOTEL Poseidonos Avenue CY8101 Paphos Cyprus Tel: This highly rated, 4-star hotel enjoys an enviable beachfront location in a quiet part of Paphos, just a short promenade walk from the picturesque harbour and archaeological sites. The hotel is renowned for its warm and friendly staff who are on hand to make your stay extra special. BEDROOMS There are 327 spacious, comfortable en-suite bedrooms, all with private balcony. All rooms have TV and radio, direct dial telephone, Wi-Fi (small charge), safety deposit box (small charge), tea and coffee making facilities, a mini-bar, hairdryer, bathrobe and slippers, complimentary toiletries and air conditioning / heating. FACILITIES These include extensive gardens and a bar with a large, comfortable terrace. This hotel has beautiful views of the Mediterranean and the leisure facilities include three freshwater swimming pools, indoor pool (heated during the period November- March), indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, floodlit tennis courts and mini golf. In the hotel s Elixir Spa is a heated pool, sauna, steam bath, and fully equipped gym. There s also a hairdressing salon and a good selection of spa treatments available (payable locally). On the lower ground floor is a mini market selling groceries and other holiday essentials and souvenirs. MEALS All our holidays include breakfast and evening meal. The hotel does cater for most dietary needs; we advise you to discuss your requirements with the restaurant staff on arrival. Breakfast This is an extensive self-service buffet offering a wide selection of hot and cold items. Evening meal This is an extensive buffet, including a vegetarian option. On the last evening we will enjoy a special meal, including Cypriot specialities. Lunch You may be able to purchase a picnic lunch from the hotel. Alternatively it is possible to buy ingredients from local shops or on some days to eat at one of the local cafés; your leaders will advise you of the options. Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk 3

4 Guided Walking ITINERARY A unique feature of our Guided Walking holidays is the daily choice of walks. Each evening your leaders will give a short talk about the options for the next day and answer any questions that you may have. In Paphos you ll have a choice of two guided walks on each walking day. the most up to date information, please check our website. The cost of the transport to and from your walks each day is included in the cost of your holiday. A finalised itinerary will be available at the resort and your leaders will talk every evening about the next day s walks. Sightseeing costs are included in the cost of your holiday. Please note that the itinerary outlined below is provisional and could be subject to change. For Easier Walks: 5 to 7 miles (8-11km on good paths, with some rocky sections. Up to 800ft (240m) of ascent in a day. 4 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk Harder Walks: 7 to10 miles (1116km) on good paths with some steep ascents and descents. There are also some rocky sections. Up to 1,800ft (540m) of ascent in a day.

5 Day 1: Arrival day Depending on your arrival time, relax and enjoy the facilities of the hotel and explore the surrounding area. There will be the opportunity to meet your fellow guests. Day 2: High village to turtle beach To the north of Agios Georgios the wilderness area of the Akamas Peninsula opens up. This area of spectacular rugged scenery and sandy bays is where we ll begin our walking on Cyprus. Using a variety of tracks both groups wind their way down to the sea, enjoying the views over the Akamas Peninsula. Easier Walk: This walk takes us on one of Europe s long distance trails, the E4, as we make our way to the small fishing port of Agios Georgios and wide views to the tip of the Akamas Peninsula. From here we ll take a beautiful coastal path to a café for well- earned refreshments. 5 miles (8km) with100ft (30m) ascent and 1,200ft (360m) of descent. Harder Walk: We ll start our walk further along the Akamas Peninsula and wind our way down to Lara Bay, famous as a breeding area for green and loggerhead turtles. From here our route hugs the coastline, passing the mouth of the Auakas Gorge as we near Paphos and the end of our walk. 9 miles (14.5km) with 500ft (150m) of ascent and 2,000ft (600m) of descent. Day 3: Troodos heights Our coach takes us away from the beaches through the fascinating countryside of west Cyprus up into the mountains. We arrive at the ski resort of Troodos, nestling just below the summit of Mt Olympus (1,950m), the highest point on Cyprus. We ll certainly notice the difference in temperature as we start walking. Both groups follow routes circumnavigating the mountain. Wandering through forests of juniper, pine and cedar on good paths, we can enjoy far reaching views out towards Paphos. Easier Walk: We start from the Sun Valley Taverna on the side of Mt Olympus at an altitude of around 1,850m. From here we will circumnavigate Mt Olympus through Venetian fortifications and lovely juniper trees with great views throughout. 5 miles (8km) with 200ft (60m) of ascent. Harder Walk: We ll take a lower route around Mt Olympus at an altitude of 1,750m so that we can enjoy the great views to Paphos for a little longer as we wind our way past old mines, juniper and cedar trees to the beautiful Troodos village. 9 miles (14.5km) with 200ft (60m) of ascent. Day 4: Sightseeing day Today we ll all travel along the most scenic stretch of coastline on the island, where we stop to see Ancient Curium. Here we ll discover the infamous House of Eustolios, which proudly boasts its intricate mosaics and magnificent amphitheatre overlooking the sea. We will then drive through beautiful mountain areas to reach the charming village of Omodhos, built around one of the oldest monasteries in Cyprus, the Holy Cross. This is also one of the best wine producing villages where traditional white stone buildings line the narrow cobbled streets. We visit the old wine press and then enjoy a traditional meze lunch. On our way back we will stop at the island s most famous landmark, Aphrodite s rock, the legendary birthplace of the goddess of love. On this day, sightseeing costs are included in the price of your holiday as well as the meze lunch Day 5: Free day Each week there is a free day when no guided walks are offered. This is an ideal opportunity to relax around the hotel, walk independently or visit local places of interest. Some options for your free day may include: Paphos waterfront: Walk along the promenade to the harbour and enjoy a drink overlooking the town s imposing castle. Hotel: Relax at the hotel and take advantage of its extensive spa and swimming pool facilities. Nea Paphos: You can reach this UNESCO World Heritage site on foot from the hotel via the beachfront promenade. This outstanding archaeological park features extensive Greco-Roman ruins and incredibly well-preserved mosaics depicting ancient mythology. Local information website: For information on Paphos please visit Day 6: Pomegranates and vines The walks today travel to the hills above Paphos, through farmland and vineyards to the magnificent monastery of Chrysorrogiatissa. This monastery was established in 1152 and features many frescoes and icons as well as producing their own wine. Easier Walk: We begin our walk in Agios Fotas following a wide track to the Agia Moni Monastery, considered to be one of the oldest on Cyprus. After a brief exploration of this ancient monastery Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk 5

6 we continue on our way through vineyards to the beautiful Chrysorrogiatissa and on to the smal town of Pano Panagia for refreshments. 6 miles (9.5km) with 500ft (150m) of ascent. Harder Walk: Our route begins in the village of Kannivou following farm tracks as we ascend to the Chrysorrogiatissa monastery with spectacular views to reward our hard work. From here we wind our way to join the easier group in Pano Panagia for refreshments. 7 miles (11km) with 1,800ft (540m) of ascent. Day 7: The Baths of Aphrodite Today we return to the Akamas Peninsula. Travelling to the northern side, our coach takes us to a high picnic place above the village of Neo Chorio. With far reaching views over turquoise seas, what better way to spend your day than walking in this marvellous wilderness area. One of the least inhabited areas of Cyprus, this is an area well worth visiting. Easier Walk: Starting at a lovely picnic spot above Neo Chorio we make our way through pine forests to reveal an area of outstanding views over Polis and Latsi. We continue on our way past old mining areas 6 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk to another picturesque picnic spot around a great oak tree before making our descent to Aphrodite s Bath where we end our walk. 5 miles (8km) with 400ft (120m) of ascent and 1,000ft (300m) of descent. Harder Walk: Like the easier walk, we make our way to the picnic spot at the great oak tree. This is where the similarities end, as we ascend Moutti tis Sotiras for 360 views above the Akamas Peninsula before zigzagging our way down to join the easier group at Aphrodite s Bath for a well-earned drink to celebrate a great week s walking. 7 miles (11km) with 700ft (210m) of ascent and 1,400ft (420m) of descent. Day 8: Departure day In the evenings In Europe, our walking holidays continue into the evening. Enjoy a glass of wine or local beer whilst listening to your leaders outlining the next day's walks. After a relaxed evening meal take advantage of the warm evenings and chat with your fellow guests drinking a cocktail in the hotel gardens or join your group for an evening stroll along the beach path or just listen to live music one evening at your hotel.

7 WALKING INFORMATION Your walking leaders: HF Holidays leaders are a pivotal feature of our Guided Walking holidays. During the day they will guide you on the walks in a caring and considerate way, showing you places of interest en route. All our leaders have been selected on an intensive residential course so you can relax and enjoy your holiday knowing that you are in safe hands. Our leaders welcome your comments on the holiday survey; constructive suggestions for things that they might do differently are very helpful. We take pride in the quality of our holidays and work closely with all our providers to ensure our holidays meet your expectations. If for any reason you are not satisfied with any element of your holiday, our leaders are the best people to help. Local interest guides: In some of our resorts we may employ the services of a local interest guide who will accompany you on a walk to enrich and enhance your enjoyment of the area by giving you an insight into its history and culture. Tips for local interest guides have not been included in the price of your holiday. This is at your own discretion and we invite you to do this directly with the local guide. Maps: Your leaders will carry all the maps and detailed walk instructions needed for the walks. The maps available for this area are Orama 14, Paphos and Orama 11, Nicosia. Both 1:100,000 scale. Maps can be obtained by mail order from The Map Shop, tel: or visit Children: We welcome unaccompanied children of 14 or over on our walks on the basis that they can take full responsibility for themselves. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk 7

8 WALKING SAFETY We are committed to running our Guided Walking holidays in a safe manner and your co-operation with this is much appreciated. No outdoor activity can be 100% risk free; however, if you take sensible precautions and adhere to your leaders instructions, your holiday will be both safe and enjoyable. On the first evening of your holiday (dependent on arrival time), the leaders will give a short talk about safety on the walks we would ask everyone to attend. Walking as a group: Our leaders always consider the safety of the group as a whole, and will show more caution over potential risks (such as bad or exceptionally hot weather) than an individual or couple might make on a private outing. Walks may be modified or cancelled following the leaders assessment of the day-to-day situation. Your leaders will refuse to accept any guest whose clothing, equipment, behaviour or walking ability is considered unsuitable, and where it could affect the safety and enjoyment of other guests on the proposed walk. It is your responsibility to follow the leader s guidelines, for the benefit and safety of the group as a whole. If you leave the group, then your leader will no longer have responsibility for you. For safety reasons, we stipulate a minimum party size of two guests in addition to the leader. First aid: In line with current practice, each leader carries a group first aid kit but is not able to supply any medication, including aspirin, paracetamol, antihistamines and antiseptic cream. Hydration: In warm weather it is very important to keep hydrated. You will need to carry a minimum of two litres of water with you on walks, more during hot weather or on more demanding walks. One good way of hydrating is to use a two litre hydration pack which allows drinking without constant stopping. This can then be filled up from additional water sources as required. Your leader will inform you of the possibilities for replenishing your water during the walks. Your health: It is essential that you describe on your guest registration form any health condition or disability you may have. The leaders will treat this confidentially and may be able to take it into account on the walks; for example, by not delaying lunch if they know they have someone with diabetes in their party. EU citizens should ensure they have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) prior to their holiday. 8 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk There can be problems with medical authorities and insurance companies if you cannot produce this when you require treatment details are available at dh.gov. uk/travellers EHIC cards have an expiry date please check yours is valid before you travel. Insurance: Insurance is a condition of booking. Therefore if you have not already arranged insurance, it is imperative that you do so, and advise us of the insurance company and policy number. We have negotiated special holiday insurance and full details of this cover can be found in our brochure or at hfholidays.co.uk. There is no extra charge for pre-existing illnesses. If you would like to purchase insurance from us please call us on or holidayservices@hfholidays.co.uk. Even with an EHIC card, medicines and out-patient treatment normally have to be paid for at the time and the costs reclaimed afterwards details are available at dh.gov.uk/travellers. Therefore insurance is extremely important, as is access to emergency money, preferably a credit card. In Montenegro, there are reciprocal healthcare agreements with the UK that allow free emergency treatment. In non urgent cases payment (normally in cash) may be required. Further details are available at dh.gov.uk/travellers. Money: Access to emergency money, preferably via a credit card, is very important as you never know when an emergency may arise. HOLIDAY TIPS Language: Greek and English Currency: Euro Changing money: There are several ATM machines in Pafos where you can obtain money. Electricity: 220 Volt AC with square 3-pin plugs as per the UK. Tap water: Is considered safe to drink, but if you prefer, bottled mineral water can be purchased from the hotel or local supermarkets. Telephone code: If the international number you wish to call starts with a 0, you must drop the starting digit when dialling the number. To dial a UK number 0044 To dial a Cypriot number 00357

9 WHAT TO WEAR & BRING To enjoy your walking comfortably and safely, it is essential that your footwear, clothing and equipment are suitable for the conditions likely to be encountered. Please note that some of our Atlantic island and Mediterranean destinations are also in mountainous areas and at high (up to 4,000ft) the temperatures can be as low as 0 C. You will need: comfortable outdoor clothing ankle supporting footwear with non-slip soles water bottle (at least 2 litres, more for hot climates) and a thermos flask if you wish sunhat, sun cream and sunglasses small rucksack The following are also recommended to all walkers, and are essential for mountainous and hilly areas: walking boots spare pullover or fleece hat and gloves spare high-energy food e.g. chocolate bar or Kendal mint cake torch You may also wish to consider bringing: camera personal first aid kit walking pole(s) many guests find these useful, particularly for descents FOOTWEAR We recommend wearing walking boots on all our walks, as these provide the best ankle support and grip. Modern approach shoes offer appropriate levels of grip and may be worn on some low level walks, but users should be aware that they offer less ankle support. Lightweight trainers, denim jeans and waterproof capes are not recommended for any walks. TRANSFER INFORMATION If you have booked your holiday with flight you will arrive at Paphos Airport. From the UK we offer flights from several airports which may arrive at different times.. Please note that meals are not provided on most European flights, although some airlines may offer a small snack. Where possible you will be met in the arrivals hall by an HF Holidays leader. Occasionally we will ask our transfer coach company to meet you. The driver will be in the arrivals hall holding an HF Holidays sign. The onward journey to Paphos by coach takes approximately 30 minutes. For independent travellers: For guests who have booked their holiday without flight HF Holidays can help you to reach the hotel in the following ways: HF Holidays transfer coach from Paphos airport. These are timed to meet the HF Holidays flights (provisional HF Holidays flight times can be found on or by calling +44 (0) ). Cost per single journey is 10. Please note that HF Holidays is not responsible for your onward travel if you fail to meet the transfer coach under any circumstance. Our Airport Taxi service service operates at this resort, offering quick and easy transfers for guests booking their own flights. All prices are per taxi for single journeys, allowing you to mix and match different transfer options. From Paphos Airport by taxi transfer 40 per taxi single journey Transfers and taxis must be pre-booked. If you have not already booked your transfer or taxi please call +44 (0) Airport parking and accommodation If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call and quote HX031 or book online at holidayextras.co.uk/hfholidays Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk 9

10 linger a little LONGER Two weeks or more Make the most of your break by combining complementary holidays, such as Tegernsee, in the upper Bavarian Lake District and Weidach, on the Seefeld Plateau which offer rambles in picturesque scenery of Austria. We arrange the transfers between the resorts so that you don t have to. See our brochure or website for more information. Discovery or Garden Tours, Photography, Painting, or Yoga. Worldwide From Alaska to Australia our Worldwide Journeys invite you to explore world famous destinations, and some lesser known gems, on six continents including Europe. Self-guided Walking For those who prefer to explore independently, on our Self-guided Walking holidays, in selected European destinations, you can discover unspoiled scenery, historic sites and the local culture at your own pace by following our carefully planned walking routes. Leisure Activities We offer a range of Leisure Activities holidays at some of our European destinations, including SAVE ON OUTDOOR CLOTHING From time to time our outdoor clothing partners have special offers for our guests. Visit hfholidays.co.uk/partnerships to see the current offers. 10 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

11 RECOMMEND A FRIEND AND SAVE 50 Do you know someone who would enjoy our holidays as much as you do? Invite them to book a holiday and you ll receive 50! If you recommend HF Holidays to a friend who subsequently makes their first ever booking with us, we will give you 50 off your next holiday for each person recommended. Plus, as a welcome, we will also give your recommended friend or friends 50 per person off their holiday, meaning savings for everyone! Claim your 50 in three easy steps When your friend books a holiday, ask them to mention at time of booking your name and address. If they have never travelled with us before, we will give them a discount of 50 per person. We will send you a 50 voucher off a future HF Holidays break for each friend you have recommended. Terms & conditions apply, visit hfholidays.co.uk/raf for details. PATHWAYS FUND Last year guests donated 19,500 to our Pathways Fund and we spent 25,000 on projects. For more information on the projects the Pathways Fund has supported, plus how to donate, please visit hfholidays.co.uk/pathways HF Holidays continues to work in partnership with the Family Holiday Association to provide Feel Good Breaks designed to reward families who could not otherwise afford it with the gift of a break in the outdoors and the chance to spend quality time together. Help us continue this work by donating to the Pathways Fund. JOIN US TODAY AND BENEFIT TOMORROW HF Holidays is the only UK holiday provider that s a co-operative. We re owned by our members who help shape our business for future generations. Join our award-winning and sociably responsible society that s passionate about helping others to enjoy holidays in beautiful countryside. For a minimum purchase of shares you can benefit from: Members loyalty scheme earn points on your holidays and use as a discount on your next holiday Member-only events and holidays Members come first with advance registration for the holiday you want 10% discount at our country house bars 15% discount at Cotswold Outdoor 15% discount at Rohan 25% discount at Hi-Tec Annual interest on your shares ALREADY A MEMBER? There are many ways for you to further your support: Help choose our Board Attend member events Encourage others to join us Increase your shares at any time Top up to 1,000 shares to become an investment member with enhanced benefits Give membership as a gift To join or increase your investment call our Membership team on , membership@hfholidays.co.uk or visit hfholidays.co.uk/membership Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk 11

12 Contact details HF Holidays Ltd Catalyst House 720 Centennial Court Centennial Park Elstree Borehamwood, WD6 3SY hfholidays.co.uk For any questions before your holiday, we re here to help, so please contact us on: (local rate) +44 (0) (from outside the UK) Monday-Friday: 9am-7pm. Emergency contact details: In all instances during your holiday, your first point of contact should be our HF Holidays leaders. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays emergency contact details are as above or between the hours of Friday 7pm to Monday 9am are: +44 (0) or