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Baths of Aphrodite
Underneath an old fig tree, shaded from the warm Cyprus sun, is a small natural grotto. Water flows down a wall of rock and forms a pool amongst the moss. It is here that legend says Aphrodite would come to bathe. According to Greek mythology, she met her lover Adonis at the pool when he stopped for a drink while hunting.
The pool is quiet and cool – a pleasant place to relax – but it’s just a small part of what’s on offer here. Although the name ‘Baths of Aphrodite’ at this location may have been influenced by this grotto, it actually applies to a larger natural area here at the coast of the Akamas Peninsula.
Entering the Akamas Natural Reserve Park from the car park to the grotto, you’ll pass through a botanical garden that has most of the perennial indigenous plants of the region. Specialised guided tours can be arranged, which are suitable for the whole family.
From the baths, a 2.5km (1.5 miles) trail to the West follows the legendary path that the Goddess of Love would take to rest under a large oak tree after her bath. From here, the path splits into two hiking routes called ‘Aphrodite’ and ‘Adonis’. Both trails are about 5km (3 miles) long and should take you about two hours to walk.
As well as seeing the diverse plants and animals of the Akamas Park, there are significant geological formations in the area. The walking trail along the coastline has magnificent views out over the sea. There are also swimming spots at some of the nearby beaches, with the opportunity to relax.
The 'Baths of Aphrodite' is about an hour’s drive from the Pafos harbour. There is a parking lot, shops and a restaurant at the site. Also, the nearby Local Archaeological Museum of Marion-Arsinoe at Polis Chrysochous has some ancient artifacts that are part of the Route of Aphrodite and is worth stopping at while in the area.
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