Chloraka

Chloraka (also spelled Chlorakas) is a coastal village and suburb located in the Paphos District of Cyprus, situated just 3 kilometers north of the city of Paphos. The community is split into two distinct areas: the historic old village center, which sits on a hillside overlooking the sea, and the lower coastal strip, which has developed into a popular tourist destination lined with hotels, holiday villas, restaurants, and rocky beaches.

Historically, Chloraka was an agricultural community famous for its extensive banana plantations and cucumber cultivation. While tourism and residential development have grown significantly, some agricultural plots and banana groves still remain interspersed between the modern developments. The village offers a convenient alternative to staying in the busy center of Paphos, combining easy coastal access with a relaxed residential atmosphere.

The climate in Chloraka is Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Due to its coastal location, summer temperatures are tempered by sea breezes, though humidity can be high in July and August. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most pleasant times to visit for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Paphos International Airport (IATA: PFO), located approximately 17 kilometers southeast of Chloraka. A taxi from the airport to Chloraka takes about 20 to 25 minutes and costs around €25 to €35. Alternatively, visitors can take the airport bus (Route 612) to the Kato Paphos Main Station and transfer to Route 615, which runs directly through Chloraka.

By Train

Cyprus has no active railway network.

By Car / Road

Chloraka is easily reached from Paphos by driving north along the E701 coastal road (Tomb of the Kings Avenue, which becomes Chloraka Avenue). The drive from Paphos Harbour or Paphos old town takes less than 10 minutes. From Coral Bay, drive south along the E701 for about 10 kilometers.

Regular bus services (Route 615) operated by OSYP run every 10 to 15 minutes between Paphos Harbour and Coral Bay, stopping at multiple points along the Chloraka coastal road.

The coastal area of Chloraka is highly walkable, with a dedicated seaside pedestrian path that connects many of the hotels and beaches. To travel between the coastal strip and the old village center on the hill, a car, taxi, or local bus is recommended due to the steep incline. The frequent 615 bus route makes it easy to travel to Paphos or Coral Bay without a car.

• MV Demetrios II Shipwreck: A cargo ship that ran aground in rough seas in 1998. The wreck is located a few hundred meters off the Chloraka coast and is clearly visible from the shore. It is a popular subject for photography, especially at sunset.

• Church of Agios Georgios and EOKA Monument: A picturesque stone church located near the coast. Adjacent to it is a monument and a small museum dedicated to the Grivas Digenis and the crew of the Agios Georgios boat, which smuggled weapons for the EOKA struggle in the 1950s.

• Saint Ypatis Church: A historic chapel located in the old village center, featuring traditional stone construction.

• Walk the Chloraka Coastal Path: A scenic, paved pedestrian path that runs along the rocky coastline, offering beautiful sea views, benches, and access to small coves.

• Swimming at St. George Beach: A small, sandy beach protected by artificial breakwaters, making it one of the few safe swimming spots along this rocky stretch of coast.

• Water Sports: Several beachfront hotels in the area offer water sports rentals, including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing.

Chloraka offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Cypriot taverns to international restaurants.

• Melania Restaurant: A long-running, family-owned tavern located slightly inland, known for its excellent fish meze, traditional Cypriot dishes, and friendly service.
• Caravelle Fish Tavern: Situated near the coast, specializing in fresh seafood, grilled fish, and traditional Mediterranean starters.
• King's Aphrodite Tavern: A popular spot offering a mix of Cypriot meze, international dishes, and live entertainment on select evenings.

• Sunset Cocktails: Several bars and hotel lounges along the coastal path offer outdoor seating with excellent views of the sea and the MV Demetrios II shipwreck.
• Local Beers and Wines: Try local Cypriot beers like Keo or Leon, or enjoy regional wines from the Paphos district.
• Water Safety: Tap water is chlorinated and safe, but most visitors prefer bottled water for drinking.

• Budget: St. Nicolas Apartments offers self-catering holiday apartments with shared pools and gardens, located a short distance inland from the coast (typically €50–€70 per night).
• Mid-range: Eleni Tourist Village or Capital Coast Resort & Spa offer comfortable rooms, pools, and beachfront access at moderate rates (typically €85–€130 per night).
• Upscale / heritage: Louis Paphos Breeze or Azur Hotel offer premium, all-inclusive or boutique accommodation options with modern amenities and sea views (typically €140–€250 per night).

• Local Bananas: Chloraka is famous for its small, sweet local bananas. You can buy them fresh from local fruit markets (froutararia) along the main road.
• Daily Conveniences: The main Chloraka Avenue features several supermarkets, pharmacies, and souvenir shops catering to both residents and tourists.

• Paphos (3 km south): The main city, featuring the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, the harbor castle, and numerous dining and shopping options.
• Lemba (2 km north): A small artistic village famous for the Cyprus College of Art and reconstructed Chalcolithic roundhouses.
• Coral Bay (9 km north): A popular resort area featuring one of the best sandy beaches in the Paphos region.
• Peyia (11 km north): A hillside town overlooking Coral Bay, known for its traditional taverns and views.