Xylofagou
A traditional village between Larnaca and Ayia Napa.
Welcome to Xylofagou
Xylofagou is a traditional Cypriot village halfway between Larnaca and Ayia Napa. It is a place for village life and wide skies, with quiet beaches and fish tavernas a short drive away.
Ayia Napa is about 15–20 minutes by car and Larnaca airport roughly 25–30 minutes.
Life in Xylofagou moves at a gentle pace. The village has bakeries, small shops, cafés and traditional tavernas, and locals are welcoming to visitors. It is the kind of place where you can enjoy fresh local produce, quiet evenings and starry skies.
The surrounding countryside is known for its red soil and farmland, and the coast nearby is lined with small beaches, fishing shelters and rocky coves. Fish tavernas at Potamos Liopetriou and along the coast are some of the best places in the area to enjoy freshly caught seafood.
Xylofagou is ideal for travellers who want peace and quiet but still like to explore. Ayia Napa’s beaches and nightlife, Cape Greco’s nature trails, and Larnaca’s promenade and historic sights are all within an easy drive, so every day can bring something different.
A car is the best way to get around, giving you the freedom to discover hidden beaches and villages along the south-east coast.
Highlights of Xylofagou
Potamos Liopetriou
A picturesque fishing creek a few minutes away, where small boats tie up next to tavernas serving the day’s catch.
Ayia Thekla beach
A sandy beach with clear water on the way to Ayia Napa, quieter than the big resort beaches.
Ayia Thekla chapel
A small whitewashed chapel on the rocks by the beach, with arches framing the sea.
Ayia Napa and Cape Greco
Nissi Beach, the sea caves and Cape Greco National Forest Park are all within an easy drive for a day out.
Interesting facts
- Xylofagou is one of the Kokkinochoria — the “red villages” — named after the red soil of the area.
- That red soil grows the potatoes Cyprus is famous for.
- Being between Larnaca and Ayia Napa, it is one of the easiest bases for exploring both.
