New coastal pathway to take shape in Peyia

Other projects of the Cypriot municipality include a new beach, a basketball and volleyball court and a five-a-side football pitch

The project for the creation of a new coastal pathway in Peyia, the largest village of the Paphos district in Cyprus, is approaching construction stage, Mayor Marinos Lambrou told the Cyprus Mail. The winning tender will be announced at the end of August and works are expected to commence in mid-September, the mayor said.

Path with extras

The 14 km-long path will start at the ‘entrance’ to Peyia and finish at Saint George’s harbour. The project will be completed in two phases, with the first 2 km-long stretch expected to cost around EUR 2.5 million. The works are scheduled to take around 18 months.

The mayor emphasized that, alongside the pathway, the first phase will also see the construction of an amphitheatre, an outdoor gym, a basketball court, a kiosk and a playground for kids. There will also be new facilities like toilets and showers.

Marinos Lambrou pointed out that the coastal pathway project is very important for Peyia as it will upgrade the locality’s looks and increase its tourist appeal.

New beach and sport courts

The mayor also lifted the curtain on a municipal plan to create a new beach running the length of the coast in front of the Ascos Hotel. This project will start at the end of 2022 and, according to Lambrou, the municipality is taking serious measures to protect the coastline and the adjacent houses from erosion.  

The mayor mentioned two other municipal projects that are nearing the finishing line: a basketball and volleyball court and a five-a-side football pitch. They are all close to the village stadium and cost EUR 80,000 each.

And last but not least, resurfacing works worth millions of euros are taking place both on the roads inside Peyia and those leading to the village, concluded the mayor.

Treasure trove of attractions

Peyia (also known as Pageia in English) has been an independent municipality since 1994 when its population swelled to 10 000 residents. The origins of its name are lost in the mist of ages, with the most prevalent theory crediting the Venetians who called the neighbouring port Baeia.

Built on a hillside descending to the sea, Peyia commands scenic views and is famed for its assorted beaches, such as Coral Bay, Laourous Beach, and Maniki Beach. The village also boasts an area of sea caves and a nearby shipwreck that provide unique photo opportunities.

Among the village landmarks is Agios Georgios archaeological area which contains unearthed Christian basilicas dated to the 6th century AD. Avakas Gorge lures hikers with intricate geological formations and a rare endemic plant growing between the rocks.

Paphos Zoo, one of the top attractions of the entire island, is also located in Peyia. Spreading over a green area of 100 000 sq.m., it comprises one of the largest collections of parrots and poisonous snakes in Europe.