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One of the benefits of being a Mediterranean island is
plentiful sunshine throughout the year, and Cyprus is no
exception. In fact, Cyprus epitomizes the ideal weather of the
region with sunny days and fine temperatures almost every day.
Extremes of temperatures are rare, meaning Cyprus has
something to offer every month of the year, whether it's
swimming (as late as November) or enjoying cultural sites and
festivals (all year long). While seasonal fluctuations are not
drastic, however, they are different. Here's what to expect.
Summer: When It Sizzles
For just about Summer stretches from mid-May to
mid-October and means high temperatures, cloudless skies and
cooling breezes from the sea. It's the ideal season for
swimming, sunbathing and a whole range of watersports from
sailing to scuba diving. At this time of year, explore the
archaeological sites early in the morning or in late
afternoon, avoiding the hottest part of the day. It's always a
good idea to bring along sun protection, such as sunscreen and
a broad-brimmed hat. Even in the height of summer when it's
32C(90F) degrees at the beach (and warmer inland),
temperatures are refreshingly cooler in the Troodos, making
the mountains ideal for hiking or simply relaxing.
Fall Forecast: Warm and Sunny
Toward the end of October evenings do tend to get
cooler, however. In October and through November the leaves
change color in the Troodos and vineyards take on gold and
crimson hues against a backdrop of crystal clear sunlight. In
Cyprus even mid-November can feel like summer, but by month's
end medium-weight apparel for the late afternoons and evenings
will enhance the traveller's experience. It is still possible
to enjoy swimming, while inland excursions to villages and
vineyards for wine tasting can be very enjoyable. Fall also
brings with it the annual Kypria festival, with prestigious
local and international musical and dramatic performances at
venues throughout Cyprus.
Toward the end of October evenings do tend to get cooler,
however. In October and through November the leaves change
color in the Troodos and vineyards take on gold and crimson
hues against a backdrop of crystal clear sunlight. In Cyprus
even mid-November can feel like summer, but by month's end
medium-weight apparel for the late afternoons and evenings
will enhance the traveller's experience. It is still possible
to enjoy swimming, while inland excursions to villages and
vineyards for wine tasting can be very enjoyable. Fall also
brings with it the annual Kypria festival, with prestigious
local and international musical and dramatic performances at
venues throughout Cyprus.
Winter: An Active Season
December and January are the months of Mediterranean
winter, bringing the possibility of rain, but still an average
of six hours of bright sunshine a day. This is the time of
year when smaller Mediterranean destinations shut down for the
season, but not so Cyprus . The island is a major business
centre and has many important heritage sites and museums, all
at their least crowded in winter. The cultural calendar is
also alive and well throughout the winter, with new events
coming all the time. The summer resort of Agia Napa, for
example, offers a "Cultural Winter" with classical
music concerts and modern and folkloric dance performances.
Into early February there is occasional rain, and often snow
in the Troodos - ideal for skiing!
Spring: Delights
The first orchids bloom in January in Cyprus , and by
mid-February the countryside is already alive with fresh green
meadows and almond trees in bloom. March days can still be
cool (daytime temperatures around 19C or 65F, 9C or 40F at
night) but steadily moderate. Early spring is a wonderful time
to visit to Cyprus , with pleasant daytime temperatures and
many of the ancient ruins framed by a carpet of red anemones
and other wildflowers.
In April and into the middle of May spring is in full force.
This is an ideal time for nature hikes and off-road adventures
in the pristine Akamas Peninsula . Cyprus has 1,950 species of
flowering plants, 140 of which grow nowhere else but on the
island, and in the Akamas alone, there are 700 plant species,
of which 40 are endemic. From February to April, pink cyclamen
sprouts up from rocky foothills and thickets and forms a
riveting adornment to the Baths of Aphrodite. From March to
April, the pink wavy-leaved monkey orchid (Orchis italica)
grows in dense patches around Pafos. If in summer Cyprus is
the place to bask in the sun, then spring is the time to savor
the natural beauty of the island in bloom.
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