Catalkoy is everything you expect from a North Cyprus village near your holiday villa, with well-kept whitewashed houses and quiet streets. The real beauty of Catalkoy is its position, just 5 miles east of Kyrenia, close to one of the best beaches in North Cyprus, and easy to reach from the main coastal road.

Catalkoy has always been a popular spot for a home in the North Cyprus countryside, ever since St Epictetus came here in the 12th century. The holy hermit lived in a local cave, but you can choose from an excellent range of villas to rent in Catalkoy, thanks to its popularity with ex-pats. The village still remembers the hermit however, as the 19th century church was named after him.

North Cyprus villas for rent are made for relaxing holidays in the sunshine and at Catalkoy, you can simply lie back and enjoy the peace and quiet. For those who prefer the sound of lapping waves on beaches, the dark-sands and seclusion of Karakum beach is just a few minutes drive towards Kyrenia, or try the rock pools and limestone sunbathing slabs at Lara Beach, just a few minutes drive to the east.

However, if you enjoy beaches, water sports, fun atmosphere, good food, beer on the beach and even dancing under the stars, head for the Acapulco beach resort only 3 minutes away. The Acapulco has one of the best beaches in North Cyprus, with golden sands that slope gently into the sea, ideal for youngsters. This fun resort offers everything you'll need for a fun day out by the Mediterranean Sea. Nature lovers should head for Alagadi beach, where rare green and loggerhead sea turtles bury their eggs deep in the golden sands.

There's also plenty on offer for the action sports hero on holiday in Catalkoy, including scuba diving near Kyrenia, paragliding from the mountains, and local horse riding at the Catalkoy stables, just at the top of the village.

Catalkoy is also ideally located for a trip into historic Kyrenia town, just a ten minute drive to the west. The historic harbour area is great for just wandering and shopping at local artisan's shops, or for enjoying a lunch by the sea. At night, Kyrenia harbour is filled with the chatter of locals and tourist alike enjoying a traditional Cypriot meal at a harbour front table, or dining under the stars on roof terraces high atop the former carob warehouses.

Wander into Catalkoy centre and you'll discover two supermarkets, who offer everything you'll need to stock your rental villa food cupboards and fridge - including beer and wine, of course! Catalkoy has some very good restaurants. The Lemon Tree on the Kyrenia road serves excellent seafood, while the Mardin restaurant in the south of the village is popular with locals. The Ani Restaurant specialises in fish, and fresh fish at that!

If you fancy a touch of glamour on your Catalkoy villa holiday, spend a night at the nearby Malpas Hotel. This five star hotel welcomes non-residents to its bars, Malpasia terrace restaurant or Fontana fine dining room. Try your luck at the casino gaming tables, or dance the night away at the hotel's Club Babylon. The Malpas is only a short taxi ride away from your holiday villa in Catalkoy, so why not leave the rental car behind for a night and enjoy a cocktail with dinner instead!

At Amy Villas, we deal direct with the owners of select, private villas in Catalkoy - so you don't have to!