How do I get to the Blue Lagoon from Neo Chorio?
You have a couple of options to reach the Blue Lagoon from Neo Chorio. You can drive, but a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended as the road becomes an unmade track and can be quite challenging. One route is to follow the road from Latchi up to Neo Chorio, continue towards Pegeia, and then follow signs for Fontana Amorosa; this route involves tarmac, concrete, and then unmade roads. Alternatively, and often considered more enjoyable, you can hire a boat from Latchi harbour, which takes under 30 minutes to reach the Blue Lagoon. Some boat tours also depart from Latchi and include a swim stop at the Blue Lagoon.
Are the beaches in Neo Chorio sandy or pebbly?
Beaches in and around Neo Chorio offer a mix. For example, Polis Municipal beach is known for being sandy. Latsi Beach, on the other hand, is characterized by its pebble composition. Some more remote beaches like the 'deserted beach' in Neo Chorio have pristine sands, while Yiannakis Beach has a pebbly shoreline. It's best to check specific details for the beach you plan to visit.
Is Neo Chorio a good destination for a family beach holiday?
Yes, Neo Chorio can be a good destination for families. Polis Municipal beach is noted as child-friendly. The Blue Lagoon and nearby beaches often have calm, shallow waters suitable for children to swim and play. Many accommodations in the area cater to families. However, some beaches are more remote and lack facilities, so planning is essential.
What is the water like for swimming around Neo Chorio?
The water around Neo Chorio is generally described as crystal-clear and azure. The Blue Lagoon is particularly famous for its warm, turquoise waters, reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius in summer. Many beaches, like Manolis Bay and Yiannakis Beach, boast clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Sea caves in the area also have warm, clear water. Wave height is usually not excessive, often suitable for swimming, but it's always good to check local conditions.
Is it easy to find accommodation with beach access in Neo Chorio?
Yes, there are several accommodation options in and around Neo Chorio that offer good beach access or are beachfront. For instance, Akamas Turtle Beach №2 offers direct beachfront access. Hotels like Souli Beach Hotel and Aphrodite Beach Hotel are located on the seafront or very near beaches like Yiannakis Beach. The Anassa Hotel is a 5-star beach resort in the area. Many villas also offer proximity to the coast.
When is the best time of year for a beach holiday in Neo Chorio?
The best time for a beach holiday in Neo Chorio is generally from May to October. During these months, air temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), and water temperatures are warm, around 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F). Summer months like June, July, and August offer the hottest weather and warmest sea, ideal for sunbathing and swimming, though September can be pleasant with fewer crowds.
Are there quiet, secluded beaches near Neo Chorio?
Yes, Neo Chorio is known for its proximity to more secluded and tranquil beaches, especially within the Akamas Peninsula National Park. There's a 'deserted beach' mentioned in Neo Chorio that offers a retreat from crowds. Toxeftra Beach is also described as tranquil and often experiences low traffic. Exploring the Akamas Peninsula can lead you to hidden coves and quieter spots.
What kind of facilities can I expect at Neo Chorio beaches?
Facilities vary greatly depending on the beach. More organized beaches like Polis Municipal offer numerous amenities and lifeguards. Yiannakis Beach also has amenities and water sports. However, many of the more remote or 'deserted' beaches, particularly within the Akamas Peninsula like the one near Neo Chorio village or the Blue Lagoon itself, have no facilities, so you'll need to bring your own refreshments and essentials. Some beaches like Latchi have floating wheelchairs for accessibility.
How do the beaches near Neo Chorio compare to those in Latchi?
Neo Chorio serves as a gateway to the more rugged and natural beaches of the Akamas Peninsula, including the famous Blue Lagoon and other secluded spots. Latchi, while very close and often the departure point for Akamas boat trips, has its own beaches like Latsi Beach (pebbly) and Polis Municipal Beach (sandy and child-friendly with amenities). Latchi is more of a small fishing village and harbour town with more immediate facilities, while Neo Chorio offers access to wilder, more natural beach experiences. Both Latchi A' and Latchi B' beaches in Neo Chorio are noted as accessible with floating wheelchairs.
Can you walk to any beaches from Neo Chorio village itself?
Neo Chorio village is situated slightly inland, on a hill overlooking the coast. While it offers stunning sea views, reaching the main beaches typically requires a short drive or a longer walk. For example, to reach the 'deserted beach' from Neo Chorio village, it's an approximate 2-kilometer walk down a dirt road. Latchi and its beaches are a short car ride away (around 2-3 km).
Are there any beaches near Neo Chorio suitable for snorkeling?
Yes, several spots around Neo Chorio are excellent for snorkeling. Manolis Bay is particularly renowned for its clear waters and is considered ideal for snorkeling. The Blue Lagoon, with its clear, warm waters and rocky areas, also offers good snorkeling opportunities to see fish and marine life. The Sea Caves Peyia Paphos, though a bit further, are also rich in marine life.
What is the Akamas Peninsula like for beaches, and how do I access them from Neo Chorio?
The Akamas Peninsula, easily accessible from Neo Chorio, is a protected nature reserve known for its rugged coastline, beautiful scenery, and relatively untouched beaches like the Blue Lagoon and Fontana Amorosa. Access to these beaches often involves driving on unpaved roads (a 4x4 is recommended), hiking, or taking a boat trip from Latchi. Some beaches are secluded and may require walking. The area is perfect for those seeking natural beauty and less crowded beach experiences.
Are there any warnings or things to be careful about when visiting beaches near Neo Chorio, especially in Akamas?
When visiting beaches in the Akamas Peninsula, be aware that many are remote and lack facilities, so bring water, food, and sun protection. Roads can be rough and unpaved; a 4x4 vehicle is often necessary, and some roads are signed as dangerous. Cell service can be limited in some areas. If hiring a boat for the Blue Lagoon, be cautious of reefs, especially between the island and the mainland. Always check local tide times and sea conditions before swimming.
What's the vibe like at the beaches around Neo Chorio?
The beaches around Neo Chorio generally offer a more tranquil and natural vibe, especially those within the Akamas Peninsula which are known for their unspoiled beauty and seclusion. Even the more accessible beaches like Polis Municipal offer a serene experience. It's less about bustling beach parties and more about enjoying nature, clear waters, and relaxation. The village of Neo Chorio itself has a traditional, quiet charm.
Are there accessible beaches for people with mobility issues near Neo Chorio?
Yes, there are accessible beach options. Specifically, Latchi A' and Latchi B' beaches, located in the Neo Chorio area, are listed as having floating wheelchairs available, making them more accessible for individuals with special access needs. Polis Chrysochous Municipal Beach also has a Seatrac system.
