Golfing in the Mediterranean paradise of Cyprus

The fabled birthplace of Aphrodite, Cyprus is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Mediterranean, receiving 2.4 million visitors annually according to official figures.

The third largest island in the Mediterranean it is situated at the southern most point of Europe and consequently enjoys the longest summers of anywhere on the continent.

The summer season continues long into the British autumn, with temperatures reaching 30 degrees centigrade right into October. And as such the island is perfect for holidaymakers looking to escape the gathering gloom and early evenings of the UK.

Cyprus is also home to many remarkable historical monuments, both Alexander the Great and Cleopatra have laid claim to the island during its history, as well as a host of fabulous museums and galleries.

The island possesses 52 Blue Flag beaches, offering a variety of watersports in the warm waters of the Mediterranean.

There are also mountains for intrepid hikers or bikers and three UNESCO world heritage sites; the walled city of Pathos, prehistoric Choirokoitia and the painted churches of the Troodos Mountains.

But what is perhaps most surprising about such a small island is that it is home to three world class golf courses and, thanks to the temperate climates, players of all abilities can tee-off all year round.

Perhaps the best know of the three is the Aphrodite Hills course, situated among sloping olive groves in the south-east of the island, half-way between Limassol and Pathos.

The course itself is located on a plateau 200m above sea-level overlooking one of the islands many beaches and is incorporated into the natural geography to bring players closer to their natural surroundings. As well as the world-class 18 hole course, the largest on the island, there is a three-hole golf academy and clubhouse.

A round, including a buggy, costs 78 CYP (£90) until the end on November and a strict dress code is observed.

Just down the road is the Secret Valley course, located in the Petra tou Romiou region of the island.

While slightly less prestigious that its neighbour, Secret Valley is a highly playable and enjoyable 18 hole course; a favorite with visiting players.

The course is set amid a scenic valley and natural rock formations, a round costs a more reasonable 38CYP (£80) and players must have a handicap of 28 or less

Finally the Tsada course is set further inland, but still provides stunning scenery for a leisurely round.

Built in 1994 the course is set in the grounds of a medieval monastery, plays to a par of 71 and is 5828 meters long. It was redesigned in 2007 and sits 550 metres above sea-level, ensuring a cool sea breeze for any round.

It is also the cheapest of the three courses at 25 CYP (£30) for a round until November.

All three courses represent fantastic value for money and are set in a beautiful environment, making a perfect destination for either professional or amateur players.

For more information on golfing in Cyprus take a look at Cyprus Golf or Golf Holidays Online, both of which have opportunities to visit all three of the courses mentioned above.

Alternatively, for more information on Cyprus more generally, Visit Cyprus is filled with useful tips and information.