Cycling in the Troodos region.

Emirates is offering economy class return fares between Malta and Cyprus from €190, inclusive of airport taxes and fuel surcharge.

The offer is valid for sale and outbound travel to Larnaca until June 30.

Prices do not include a weekend surcharge of €20 for departures on Fridays and Saturdays.

A kaleidoscope of colourful landscapes awaits visitors in Cyprus. The island is surrounded by turquoise waters, with a multitude of sandy beaches and an interior bursting with vivid green pine trees, picturesque villages and even snow in winter.

Complemented by natural beauty and friendly people, Cyprus is a treasure trove of Mediterranean history, spiced with Eastern influences.

The best way to discover the island is by car to explore away from tourist hotspots.

For an immersion of history and nature, head to the Troodos region. Wander in the quaint villages, Byzantine monasteries and churches, scattered throughout the mountains and set in beautiful surroundings among pine trees and hills.

In winter, some areas of the Troodos are covered in snow.

There are several slopes around Mount Olympus (the highest peak) and you can ski between January and March.

The region also offers a wide network of different nature trails, suitable for all ages and levels of fitness, as well as mountain biking and cycling routes.

All routes are well maintained and sign posted.

From the Troodos, drive to the northwestern peninsula of Cyprus, known as Akamas, and visit the beautiful landscapes and unspoilt beaches.

Cypriot traditional food. Photo: Vanessa Coutier

The area is ideal for hiking, cycling, diving and swimming.

The Baths of Aphrodite are also found in Akamas. Myth says the goddess Aphrodite used to bathe in these waters and this is where she met her lover Adonis.

Another nearby historical place is the charming town of Pafos, a listed Unesco World Heritage Site.

Numerous archaeological sites can be seen from the centre of the modern town down to its picturesque harbour, as well as along the beautiful coastline.

Those who love city life and shopping generally opt to stay in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus.

Its city centre is surrounded by 16th century walls, museums, old churches and medieval buildings.

A walk through the old city reveals the traditional charm of the world’s last divided capital.

Aphrodite’s Rock Petra Tou Romiou in Pafos is one of the most beautiful coastlines in Cyprus. Photo: Constantinos Panayides

Outside the walls, it is a modern cosmopolitan town with boutiques and a great number of restaurants and local eateries.

Another major tourist destination is Limassol. The city is also known for its lively Carnival celebrations, such as the Grand Parade on February 22 and the annual wine festival at the Muni-cipal Gardens held at the end of August and early September.

Dining out is a pleasure. Head to a typical taverna and feast on a sumptuous meze for an endless selection of dips and mains with different grilled meats. Those with a sweet tooth should try some glika tou koutaliou (preserved fruit in syrup).

Cyprus offers a wide range of tourist accommodation from luxury beach resorts, city hotels to a range of restored rural dwellings fitted with all modern amenities and comfort while retaining their original charm and warmth such as Cyprus Villages resorts in Tochni and Kalavassos, located between Larnaca, Nicosia and Limassol.

Emirates flies daily between Dubai and Larnaca and onwards to Malta.

EK 108 leaves Malta at 2.45pm and arrives in Larnaca at 6.15pm (Cyprus time). The airline includes a 30kg baggage allowance in economy ccass.

For booking and further details go to www.emirates.com/mt, contact your travel agency or call the Emirates Sales Office at Malta airport on 2557 7255.