Nat Geo Day Tour: The Life and Work of Sculptor Philippos Yiapanis

Nat Geo Day Tour: The Life and Work of Sculptor Philippos Yiapanis

Philippos Yiapanis, a renowned Cypriot sculptor, was born in Famagusta in what is now the occupied Northern part of Cyprus. His life took a tumultuous turn when he was captured and incarcerated during the Turkish invasion, subsequently becoming a refugee in South Cyprus. His artistry is a manifestation of his deep longing for freedom and a vivid representation of local history. On this tour, you will meet the artist who will lead you on an exclusive visit to his museum where around 140 sculptures are on display. As well as discovering the inspiration behind some of his most powerful works, you'll also find out about the recent history of Cyprus and explore the artist's personal experiences, narrated through his compelling storytelling. On arrival at the Art Nest Museum, Philippos will welcome you personally, providing an insight into his life and work, giving you an understanding of the emotions that underpin his creations. You will then take time to explore the open-air sculpture park, and finish with a peek at the artistic process. A tour of the artist's workshop reveals his techniques for working in bronze, chosen to ensure the longevity of his pieces, to reflect the connection between Cyprus and copper, and to represent his enduring hope for unity in his divided homeland. Round off the experience enjoying local cuisine prepared in Kouklia village, reflecting on Cyprus's unique fusion of art, history, and culinary tradition.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Two Sides, One Story - Insights from Journalists on the Division of the Nation

Get a fresh perspective on the latest events in Cyprus on this National Geographic Day Tour led by two journalists, one Greek-Cypriot and one Turkish-Cypriot, who will give you rare, behind-the-scenes insights. Start by exploring the restored village of Moutallos. Immerse yourself in its stories as you meander through the narrow alleys and witness the transformation of the area, with rehabilitated buildings that bear remnants of Turkish names, symbolizing respect for the other community. Pause for a photo stop at the historic Agia Sophia mosque, formerly a Christian church. The tour then leads you to Ibrahim's Khan, a refurbished Ottoman inn. It now houses craft units and a theater. The main entrance showcases exquisite creations of embroidery, jointly made by women from both communities, illustrating their desire for cooperation and reunification. In the courtyard of the Khan, engage in an interactive debate directed by your two journalist guides —one Greek-Cypriot and one Turkish-Cypriot. Together, you'll explore Cyprus' recent past, investigating the causes behind the enduring division and contemplating potential paths toward unity. See the contrast between old and new as you embrace the mix of vendors and workshops in the Khan's surroundings. Then, admire the renovated Ottoman Baths, part of a heritage preservation project. Conclude by savoring the simple yet true flavors that are offered in family homes, accompanied by a cup of Cypriot, Turkish, or Greek coffee, served in the oldest coffee establishment in Paphos.

Kourion Ruins, Kolossi Castle and Winery Visit

The myths of Cyprus come to life on this tour. You'll see where a legend was born, visit the ruins of Kourion, venture to the village of Omodos and cap off the day with a tasting at a family-run winery. Eva, one of our local guides, says of this excursion, ‘You'll wander through layers of history, culture and mythology, and learn about Aphrodite, the goddess of love. The rituals connected with her as well as the plants and seashells associated with her.'You'll dive straight into the past to see Petra tou Romiou, a sea stack where, local legend has it, the goddess Aphrodite was born. The ancient past takes on a more tangible form at Kourion, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Cyprus. Visit its Roman baths and amble into its centrepiece, the Greco-Roman theatre. It's still used for concerts. And up next is the Crusader-built Kolossi Castle, which belonged to the Knights Templar from the 14th century.Lunch is in a family-owned restaurant. It's as famed for its country fare made from locally sourced ingredients as it is for its scenic location in the hills. Then, we'll head to the mountain-nestled village of Omodos, where you'll have free time to wander around skinny cobbled streets lined with Byzantine buildings. And to round off the day, we'll visit the winery. Here, you'll sample some of its award-winning wines, including the commandaria variety, which Richard the Lionheart baptised as the ‘wine of kings and the king of wines'.

Caledonia Waterfalls Tour with Lunch

The lush, cool forest that carpets the Troodos Mountains is an ideal escape near Paphos. A perfect contrast to the beach, you'll journey along a scenic route into the hills, where your destination is the village of Platres. Here, you'll set off on a 3km hike along the stream to the Caledonia Falls, followed by a traditional lunch at Psilo Dendro restaurant. Andri, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘You'll enjoy the journey as much as the destination on this hike, which follows and criss-crosses a stream over a series of little bridges all the way to the waterfall.'We'll get the tour started on a refreshing note with a stop at Kolossi Fruit Garden. Here you'll have the chance to try some fresh lemonade and buy fruit before continuing further into the mountains to the pretty hilltop village of Platres. This is the starting point for the nature trail, which traces the bubbling Kryos Potamos stream through the trees. You'll be glad of sturdy footwear as you head along the scenic trail, which is quite uneven in places with some rocks, roots and rivulets to keep it interesting.It's a forest walk in dappled shade, leading through a variety of gnarly trees including pines and strawberry trees. Once you reach the Caledonia Falls, you'll be able to take a break - and have a paddle if you wish - at the shaded freshwater pool, then continue to the famous Psilo Dendro restaurant with its very own trout farm. Relax over lunch – needless to say, trout is a speciality – and end the day on a high.

Troodos Mountains Tour with Kykkos Monastery and Lunch

The journey into the Troodos Mountains is a journey to another Cyprus. Rustic stone villages dot tree-clad valleys where traditional ways of life still hold sway. This tour takes you into the spiritual heart of the highlands, the Kykkos Monastery, as well as up to Throni Hill. Alexia, one of our local guides, says, ‘The icon of the Virgin Mary at Kykkos is considered miraculous, so at least once a year, it's important for Cypriots to visit the church.'As you go into the depths of the Troodos, you'll encounter luxuriant landscapes which contrast with the arid coast. You'll head to the Kykkos Monastery first. Perched on Mount Kykkos, it's laden with religious treasures, and you won't be able to keep your eyes off the golden icons and frescoes – except for the icon of the Virgin Mary. It's kept under wraps, with the last known viewing being hundreds of years ago. You'll also have free time to wander around the grounds and enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains. What's more, your visit helps the preservation of this important heritage site.We'll then visit the hilltop tomb of Archbishop Makarios III. Superb views greet you before the drive down to the village of Pedoulas. Here, you'll enjoy a typical Cypriot lunch made from locally sourced ingredients in a family-run restaurant. There's time for an optional walk up to the richly decorated Orthodox church of the Holy Cross, then we'll head back with a coffee stop at Pano Platres en route.

Troodos Mountain Villages Tour with Lampadistis Monastery

Cyprus is full of hidden treasures, and you'll explore some of the island's rural highlights on this full day excursion into the Troodos Mountains. You'll drive into the countryside – where most say the trip is worth it for the views alone – to Lampadistis Monastery and Kalopanayiotis, with a few pleasant surprises in between.

Ancient Kourion, Kolossi Castle, Omodos & Winery Small Group Tour

Cyprus is all rolling hills dotted with pretty villages. On this adults-only tour, you'll see where a legend was born, visit the ruins of Kourion, venture to the village of Omodos and cap off the day with a wine tasting. Eva, one of our local guides, says of this excursion, ‘You'll wander through layers of history, culture and mythology, and learn about Aphrodite. The rituals connected with her, as well as the plants and seashells associated with her legacy.'You'll dive straight into the past to see Petra tou Romiou — a sea stack where, according to legend, love goddess Aphrodite was born. We keep the theme ancient at Kourion, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Cyprus. Visit the Roman baths and amble into the site's centrepiece, the Greco-Roman theatre. Concerts are still held to this day. The 15th-century Kolossi Castle is up next. This Crusader-built fortress is surrounded by blooming plants.Then, we'll head for a local lunch in a family-run taverna before visiting mountain-fringed Omodos, where you'll wander around skinny cobbled streets lined with Byzantine buildings. It's Eva's favourite village. She says, ‘The charm of the stone houses, the tranquillity and peacefulness – it's as if it has sprung from a fairytale. I love dropping into one of the cafés and seeing locals have philosophical discussions, political arguments and a bit of gossip.' Plus, there's a wine tasting, where you'll learn all about sweet commandaria wine.

Evening Drink at Aphrodite's Rock & Folk Dinner

Tasty meze, music and dancing – this trip has all the ingredients for a right old Cypriot night. And if that wasn't enough, it all comes after a drink overlooking Aphrodite's Rock – birthplace of the mythical goddess of love. Alexia, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘At the taverna, you'll get together with the locals and feel their culture and dance. Nothing is better than the 100% authentic cuisine cooked by the women of the village, just like they cook at home.' Join us for a knees-up to remember in one of the area's most popular tavernas.We'll kick off with a short drive towards Petra tou Romiou – as Aphrodite's Rock is known locally. Clink glasses at this mythical sea stack and enjoy the evening light while sipping on a sparkling wine. ‘A celebration in honour of the goddess,' as Alexia says. You'll then head to the village of Kouklia, a short drive inland from the coast, for a Cypriot dinner with a difference.A first sight, it's a typical family-run taverna. You'll get to savour just about every Cypriot dish you could possibly wish for. The emphasis is on pure ingredients and traditional meze – cooked the way they've been for generations – washed down with local wines. But on summer evenings, the family takes over the street, hosting feasts of folkloric music and dancing. Let your hair down and join the locals with some boogying and shaking on the outdoor terrace. As nights out go, it's a showstopper.

Kykkos Monastery and Troodos Mountains Small Group Tour

The drive into the Troodos Mountains is a journey to another Cyprus. Rustic stone villages dot pine-studded valleys and traditional ways of life still hold sway. This small group, adults-only tour takes you into the spiritual heart of the highlands, the Kykkos Monastery, as well as the hilltop tomb of Makarios III. Eva, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘The Troodos Mountains are where I find my soul. There are villages where time has stood still, where people still care about one another, where you enter as a guest and leave as a friend.'Ascending into the wild landscapes of the Troodos Mountains, you'll stop for a coffee break in a typical village. Then it's on to the star of the show, the beautiful Kykkos Monastery, perched on top Mount Kykkos. The interior is richly decorated, and you won't be able to keep your eyes off the icons and frescoes. You'll hear the legend of why its most famous icon, ‘the Golden Girl', remains half-hidden. And you'll also have some free time to wander around the grounds and enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains.We'll then visit Throni Hill and the elaborate tomb of Archbishop Makarios III. Superb views greet you before the drive down to the village of Pedoulas. Here, you'll enjoy a typical Cypriot lunch made from locally sourced ingredients in a family-run restaurant. There's time for an optional walk up to the Orthodox church of the Holy Cross, then we'll head back with a photo stop at Prodromos viewpoint and a coffee break en route.

Limassol Old Town Visit

Nestled between the exotic blue hues of the southern Mediterranean and the towering Troodos Mountains, the city of Limassol offers a living, breathing contrast between old and new. Tour the old town at your pace, see all the sights or kick back at a cafe between shopping sprees, the choice is yours.