Cyprus in $420s-$490s RT

Cyprus is renowned for its beaches, so we won't blame you if you spend the whole trip lounging by the sea. But drag yourself away from the sand, and you'll be rewarded with some pretty spectacular views!

First stop: the Larnaca Salt Lake, just 10 minutes from the airport. You'll find still water (and flamingos!) in the winter and massive salt-encrusted flatlands in the summer, but it's a truly surreal landscape year-round.

For something a little more rugged, rent a 4WD car and set out to the Akamas Peninsula. It's one of the most sparsely populated areas on the island, and the shoreline there is nothing short of breathtaking.

And when you crave a little culture to go with the scenery, trek up into the Troodos Mountains to track down these centuries-old churches :-)