Archaeological wonders, world-class beaches with crystal clear waters, quaint villages offering cultural and gastronomic delights and a pleasant climate year round, less than four hours flight time from Dubai. What more could you want in a holiday destination? If it’s great golf, Cyprus has that too.

The Republic, the third largest and third most populous island in the Mediterranean, is home to four international quality 18-hole courses, Aphrodite Hills Golf PGA National Cyprus, Eléa Golf Club, Minthis Hills Golf Club and Secret Valley Golf Resort.

All are in the Pafos region, all situated in tranquil surroundings and all offer just the right mix of on-course challenge and off-course facilities to appeal to the discerning golf holidaymaker. Think gently sloping hills and sparkling vistas over the Mediterranean Sea as the backdrop to equally dramatic golf.

With temperatures in the low 30 degrees Celsius in July-August, Cyprus shapes as a particularly alluring summer escape for golfers in the Middle East who don’t want to battle the rising desert mercury, yet can’t bear to down sticks for months on end.

The great news is that there is more great golf in the offing too.

The Cypriot Government has emboldened its tourism arm, The Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO), to bolster its existing cluster of courses by as many as 14 in the years ahead.

The CTO report promises investor interest for new integrated golf developments in most regions across Cyprus – Pafos, Lemesos, Larnaka and the free area of Famagusta – and there is already signature designs being linked to legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tony Jacklin.

Cyprus makes for a relaxing couples, retreat or larger group escapes. Organise your own itinerary with ease or have a little organised fun in a number of annual amateur competitions.

Players from Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and America return to the Cyprus Amateur Open Championship year after year for the great golf and friendly comradery on the tee and long into those famous Mediterranean nights.

Look out too for a repeat of the Cyprus Amateur Men’s Open and the Cyprus Amateur Seniors in 2018 as well as a number of Pro-Ams. There’s a reason why so many blue-chip corporates hold the grand finals of their series of tournaments in  Cyprus after all.

The CTO’s aim is to bolster Cyprus’ reputation as a desired destination on golf’s global map. With the weather, quality golf, friendly hotels and all the fun you can handle off the course –think spa pampering, mountain biking, treks, wine tasting, diving, sailing to name a few – the Island paradise is already a great choice for a unique golf/adventure escape.

Cyprus was chosen by Aphrodite – the Goddess of Love – as her home. That’s a good enough recommendation for us – we’re sure you’ll love the golf too.

www.visitcyprus.com