Alexander the Great and Cleopatra both staked their claim to this island and today scores of Bahraini and expat holiday-home-buyers and investors are snapping up property ... and it is understandable.
Idyllic beaches, mountain peaks scattered with olive trees, ancient ruins, citrus groves and tumble-down stone villages, the Mediterranean island Republic of Cyprus is among the most the most picturesque in the world.
The island lies at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa and has a history that spans more than 10,000 years. Its people are fabled for their warmth and generosity and the temperate climate means that the island enjoys 320 days of sunshine a year.
Although still divided, the country has made huge progress in recent years, especially since becoming a member of the European Union in 2004. There is the lowest level of income tax in Europe, low crime levels and a flourishing tourist industry.
As well as being a prime holiday destination, Cyprus has become a particularly popular place for people buying holiday and investment property and wishing to enjoy their retirement in the sun.
Despite the spiraling demand for property, house prices in Cyprus remain good value. Average prices clock in at approximately 20 per cent lower than properties in Portugal, 30 per cent lower than Spain and up to 50 per cent lower than in France and Italy.
Bahrain-based Star Real Estate is selling dozens of villas and apartments on behalf of a leading property developer.
A variety of scenic developments are available in and around the west coast resort town of Paphos, a pretty settlement serviced by an international airport.
The hills of Paphos are sprinkled with trees and slope into deserted bays and crystal blue waters. An ancient fort and harbour dominates the town which has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
There are attractive and luxurious homes ranging from apartments to villas situated in the heart of the town, directly on the beaches and in the hills overlooking the coast.
The award-winning Kamares Village development is characterized by impressive views, an excellent location and delicate architecture. The villas range from bungalows to split level and two storey buildings all with large private pools.
Close by is the magnificent Vikla Village, located on a hilltop with views of the Paphos coastline and the nearby village of Tsada with its traditional narrow streets, coffee shops, tavernas and an 18-hole golf course. There are two and three bedroom villas available which are light and airy and command striking views over the sea. Although rustic in design they incorporate every modern luxury including cleverly concealed central satellite systems.
Another attractive development is Argaka Village, positioned next to the traditional coastal village of Argaka. The 28 two and three bedroom beach villas are designed with a blend of natural materials and each has its own private pool.
Tiled rooftops, open sun terraces and landscaped gardens make these homes idyllic getaways. It is also just five minutes from historic and cultural town of Polis tis Chrysochou, (the town of gold) which is filled with restaurants, bars and amusements.
For those looking for a smaller property, the Peyia Hills development, set in the gentle sloping hills of Peyia is a good option. The one, two and three bedroom apartments on offer have pretty sea and country views and come with covered parking, roof terraces and a large communal swimming pool.
For golf lovers it doesn't get much better than Pissouri Village. Nestled between Pathos and Limasol it is right next to two world class golf courses - Aphrodite Hills and Secret Valley. The village has traditional cobbled streets and tavernas and the villas range from two to five bedrooms with landscaped gardens that offer plenty of room for swimming pools.
For a slice of history there is also the magnificent Aphrodite Springs. Located next to the Holy Gardens of the Goddess Aphrodite, the setting for this development is close to celestial. There are stunning views of the fertile plains of Yeroskipou and the Mediterranean.
Townhouses and garden apartments have the option of a private pool, while a large communal pool services the residents of apartments and penthouses.
There are a number of other developments available and all offer free access to the exclusive Leptos Kamares Club which offers mountain tennis courts, swimming pools, restaurants and a clubhouse.
A beautiful relaxed country, home to one of the friendliest tax regimes in the world and an idyllic climate, Cyprus is a perfect location for those looking for a holiday home, an investment opportunity or, as is increasingly the case on this lovely island, for a permanent residence.
