Cyprus > Pyramids

Pyramids

In the sandy planes of Lemesos several underwater attractions have sprung up during recent years. Large, hollow stone blocks were assembled into pyramids and other structures. The aim in the creation of these artificial reefs was the preservation of local flora and fauna and luckily, nature has quickly accepted this offer - they have become a worthwhile destination for divers. Curious divers are rewarded with a wide variety of snails and other small sea-dwellers. Fish Reserve The Akrotiri peninsula marks the southernmost point of Cyprus and also the western end of Akrotiri Bay. It is home to the fish-reserve, a shallow and diverse dive very close to the British military base. The clear, tranquil waters offer perfect conditions for a variety of local ocean flora and fauna. Visibility is excellent and regularly exceeds 30 metres, which makes the spotting of groupers and octopuses very easy and what’s more, the creatures are so accustomed to visitors they have become almost tame. In the midst of this natural haven lie the remains of military manoeuvres, such as the hull of an abandoned helicopter. An excellent location for snorkellers, scuba- and free divers. Further diving tips The area around Lemesos is of a sandy constitution and is consequently less habitable than the rocky stretches along the coast. Apart from the pyramids and the (no longer accessible) Farsas II, plans are underway to sink further wrecks and to create conservation areas in order to maximise living space. The Akrotiri peninsula presents varied possibilities to the diver, for example when they puzzle whether the caves and grottos of The Tombs are prehistoric burial sites or merely vagaries of nature. While the Caverns and Caves offer a reef with countless grottos, the spectacular Fisherman's Cove boasts a long diveable tunnel. The freighter Three Stars Wreck, with a weight of 1000 metric tons, beckons divers who prefer to approach by land and experienced divers relish the boat dive at Jubilee Schoals. It leads along massive rocks, reminiscent of huge stalagmites, across a plunging cliff face to a large, beautifully overgrown cave at a depth of 33 metres and entrances on three sides.