Add-on experiences that enrich a Cyprus break

Barbed wire, bulletmarked buildings and decades-old cars litter the abandoned streets of Cyprus’s exclusion zone, which was established by the United Nations after the Turkish invasion in 1974. Until 2003 it was impossible for foreigners to cross the border between the southern Republic and the north.

Now though, clients can take an excursion to the beautiful northern region, where impressive coastlines, crumbling castles and picturesque beaches dominate the landscape.

Attraction World offers the Discover the North (Kyrenia and Bellapais West) day excursion (£56pp), which incorporates free time in the coastal city of Kyrenia and a visit to the Abbey of Beautiful Peace in Bellapais village.

Must-see sights in Kyrenia include The Shipwreck Museum, which claims to house the oldest trading ship in the world, dating back to the reign of Alexander the Great. In Bellapais suggest clients check out the 200-year-old Tree of Idleness.

Carla Munafo, product manager at Attraction World, says: “Clients will feel a real difference between the two cultures that govern Cyprus, with the more classical architecture of the Greek-controlled south and the stunning scenery, towns and ruins in the north.”

For clients keen to get a glimpse into Cyprus’s cultural side with its Turkish, Greek, Muslim and Christian influences, Andrew Aley, director of sales and market management, Europe, Middle East and Africa at Viator, recommends the Authentic Cyprus Historic Day Tour From Paphos (£21pp).

“Clients can visit the ninth-century, five-domed church of Saint Paraskevi and stop at traditional villages to learn about ancient craftsmanship and halloumi-making.”

The coach excursion begins with a ceramics workshop in Yeroskipou village where clients will see potters at their craft and can even try the potter’s wheel themselves.

Furthermore, customers will travel to Letymbou to try on traditional Cypriot outfits and learn how to bake bread in a clay oven.