Water parks for one and all

When temperatures soar, however, most families will be looking for a place to cool off; Cyprus is awash (sorry!) with wonderful water parks which are just the ticket. WaterWorld in Ayia Napa combines the names and buildings of Ancient Greece with modern aquatic fun. Take on the Hydra on the Quest of Heracles ride, push yourself to the limits on the Fall of Icarus or just kick back and relax in Aphrodite’s Bath.

Aphrodite water park

Following the mythological theme is the Aphrodite Water Park in Paphos. Boasting over 25 rides and activities, thrill seekers can race away on the Black Hole, Free Fall, Wild Water or Fast River, while parents chill out on the Lazy River, Try Dive, Super Volcano or in the leisure pool. Meanwhile, the youngest members of the family have a dedicated pool, mini volcanoes and slow slides.

Water mania and Wet n Wild

The real king of the water park world, though, must be Limassol which has both Water Mania and Wet n Wild. Water Mania is great fun for kids, while Wet n Wild – a clone of the mammoth Orlando water park of the same name – has rides so enthralling that mum and dad will be falling over themselves to join in too.

Sealife centres

Nearby, they can see some more animated and modern animals at Ayia Napa Marine Park. There are daily shows from the dolphins and sea lions and socially-aware parents will be happy to know that the park meets all international standards and regulations.

Activities across the island

For an even greater number of sea-dwellers, try the Ocean Aquarium at Protaras, where over 400 species from the lakes, rivers, seas and oceans of the world are on display. And keeping with the animal theme, families will find the Cyprus Donkey Sanctuary (Limassol), Larnaka’s Camel World, Paphos Bird Park (which also has an aquarium and the 18-hole Island Cove adventure mini-golf course) and one of Europe’s largest ostrich farms is in Nicosia.