Petra tou Romiou — the birthplace of Aphrodite
Halfway along the coastal road between Paphos and Lemesos, a limestone rock rises from a sea that turns an improbable shade of blue here. This is Petra tou Romiou — according to Greek mythology, the place where Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, was born from the sea foam.
What to do there
Park at the viewpoint above the road and take the pedestrian tunnel down to the pebble beach. You can swim (the water is deep and clear), but most visitors come for the walk along the waterline and the photos. Legend has it that swimming three laps around the rock grants eternal love — at your own risk.
The best moments
Come early in the morning or towards sunset. That's when the light on the white rocks is at its softest and the tour buses are gone. At full moon, the beach is a favourite spot of the Cypriots themselves.
Niki's insider tip
Combine your visit with the village of Kouklia, ten minutes away, home to the Sanctuary of Aphrodite (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Most travellers skip it — exactly why you shouldn't.
