Training hard doesn’t mean that professional sports people or amateur athletes have to train in harsh conditions. There is no better motivation to inspire athletes for an upcoming season or event than to practise and prepare for the sport that one loves on an island where a pleasant climate is combined with beautiful Mediterranean surroundings, not to mention first-rate amenities
A large number of athletes and teams from all over the world, such as European football squads, including from Serbia, Olympic hopefuls, seasoned medallists and endurance athletes all give themselves a competitive advantage by choosing Cyprus for their preparation, thanks to a winning formula of services.
The most attractive reasons to choose the island are its guaranteed daily sunshine, mild winter temperatures and minimal rainfall. This is further enhanced and complemented by a host of other benefits. Also combining to ensure that training is efficient and rewarding are state-of-the-art training facilities, sports medicine, accommodation for all budgets, professional support, easy access from most European countries, a reliable communications and telecommunications network, low crime rates and an enviable standard of living. And one can simultaneously enjoy the rewards of everything offered by the island.
DIVING
Blessed with all the elements that comprise a diver’s paradise, Cyprus attracts visitors from all over the world thanks to its favourable weather conditions, top-ranking wrecks, diverse marine life and, naturally, because the island boasts more than 70 diving sites. A range of wrecks, spectacular underwater caves and tunnels, and interesting paths await exploration – always with the promise of discovering something unique, from the remains of ancient amphora and stone anchors, to the exotic residents of this underwater world. And whilst the coastal reefs of the island range from natural to artificial, both share the same characteristics, acting as areas of reproduction, growth, feeding and a refuge for a multitude of marine organisms.
Teeming with a wide variety of colourful fish, sponges, coral, sea anemones, octopi, mussels and sea urchin, the waters of the island are abundant with life, while shy sea turtles can also be spotted regularly, along with the rarest Mediterranean seals. As such, whether you’re an experienced diver or are just trying the sport for the first time, Cyprus offers the ideal diving experience. And if you need a helping hand to locate an accredited dive school, the Cyprus Dive Centre Association lists all its members (cyprusdiving.org.cy).
Cyprus is the new jewel of Europe for golfers seeking active breaks in the warmth of the eastern Mediterranean
CYCLING
With perfect weather conditions, varied and challenging terrain and beautiful scenery, it is no wonder that Cyprus is a firm favourite for leisurely and competitive cycling throughout the year. Enthusiasts love the island’s rugged character, which can shift from rocky to clay, and steep to flat, all within a range of 10km. Whilst you enjoy the feeling of the balmy Mediterranean breeze through your hair, unlike other island destinations, Cyprus’s wonderful climate isn’t hampered by strong headwinds, ensuring it’s the ideal setting to explore by bike!The most popular months for cycling are in the spring, which is also the season that welcomes high-calibre cycling events. The events’ courses are designed in such a way as to suit the abilities of top elite riders, whilst also providing leisure cyclists with a fun and testing experience. The island is considered a top bicycle training destination, as well as a cyclist’s dream environment, just for the sheer love of the sport. A number of bicycle centres offer a variety of professional services, such as bike rentals, tailored cycling tours and support.
Moreover, mountain biking competitions have been organised in Cyprus since the mid- 90s. Both local and international races are held on the island, with the most famous being the “Afxentia Stage Race”, which became part of the Cyprus Sunshine Cup and later the Cyprus Sunshine Epic, in which the world’s top riders compete each year.
Mountain biking is a yearround sport in Cyprus for both professional riders and those who ride as a hobby. The greatest benefit of mountain biking in Cyprus lies in the constant change of scenery that ensures it’s never boring. One can say that Cyprus is like a tiny continent for cycling; as the Troodos mountain range is a veritable geological Mecca, and mountain bike is the perfect tool to discover why.
The Cyprus Cycling Federation (www. cypruscycling.com), as a member of the International Cycling Union (UCI), is the organiser of major events and other competitions throughout the year, whilst each town has its own dedicated cycling groups that always welcome visitors on their weekly rides. Cycling enthusiasts can just grab a map and get pedalling.
GOLF
The allure of teeing off amidst stunning natural surroundings, along with the opportunity of enjoying golf all-year-round in a favourable Mediterranean climate, are just two of the factors that have seen Cyprus emerge as a leading golfing destination. A booming tourist destination with year-round sunshine and year-round flight accessibility, Cyprus is the new jewel of Europe for golfers seeking active breaks in the warmth of the eastern Mediterranean.
Located in some of the most picturesque areas of the island, the select handful of courses have been praised for the way they are integrated into breathtaking natural landscapes of dramatic ravines, cliffs and sea vistas – backdrops that have been carefully utilised to enhance the game on each course. The island’s various golf courses also host annual tournaments at both the national and international levels, as well as academies, clubhouses and other facilities.