Once sleepy fishing villages, the fabulous beaches of fine white sand of Agia Napa and Protaras, and the coastal area of Paralimni with its hundreds of windmills, nowadays buzz with life. This area is known collectively as the Kokkinochoria, “red soil villages,” because of the rich red earth in which Cyprus’ famous potatoes are grown. Culture lovers can explore the medieval churches found in villages like Sotira or go around the folk art museums displaying rural artefacts in Deryneia and Avgorou. Children will love the Marine Life museum or the new Sea Museum, “Thalassa”, in Agia Napa, which has an amazing replica of a 4th-century trading ship which sank off the coast of Kyrenia. Or you could stop at the tiny estuary known by the locals as Potamos and watch the fishing boats haul in their catch in their multi-coloured baskets. Spend the day sunbathing at the beach, swimming in warm turquoise waters or taking a short cruise along the coast. Some of the best snorkelling and diving spots are at Cape Greco, the national forest park, with its secluded coves and rocky outcrops, impressive cliff-top views and sea caves. In the evening, dine at one of the many restaurants, especially the local ones in Paralimni, or jive to the latest sounds at one of the numerous nightclubs.

The cultural reserve of Karlslund is a scenic area with a long history and is only five kilometres from Örebro's city centre. In this idyll, you'll find beautiful nature, cultural and industrial history, artisans' shops, a garden for children and an old mill hosting an exciting technological museum filled with experiences for the whole family.

Swimming, sunning, relaxing, and, perhaps, playing next to a beautiful inland lake is what many people dream of on a beautiful summer's day. In the surroundings of Vimmerby, there are lots of small lakes ideal for swimming and fishing. At several of these lakes, the local council has set up leisure areas with sandy beaches and jetties.