Cyprus, located in the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea, is the hottest Mediterranean island boasting sunshine nearly all year round. Cyprus weather almost guarantees 340 days of sunshine with temperatures rarely dropping below 16 degrees. Most of the rain falls during December and February, although other months from November to March can see some rain. Temperatures during this period range from 23 to 16 degrees.

The mild spring (temperatures around 23 degrees) is absolutely beautiful with a wonderful display of spring flowers. April is the best month to enjoy them. The weather in Cyprus can be a little windy during the first part of May although temperatures start to rise during the second half of the month.

If you like it hot you'll enjoy the months of July and August! The mercury can rise above 30 degrees centigrade. For a little relief from the heat, just make a brief excursion to the Troodos Mountains. They provide a refreshing retreat from the sun with temperatures around 12 degrees lower than other parts of the island.

You can even enjoy skiing up in the mountains during the winter months of December and January and on another day still enjoy a trip to the beach - such is the diversity of Cyprus weather!

Here are the monthly average temperatures:

January 16ºC

February 16ºC

March 18ºC

April 23ºC

May 28ºC

June 32ºC

July 32ºC

August 33ºC

September 32ºC

October 28ºC

November 23ºC

December 19ºC

Cyprus Weather: Every Season Is Special

Extremes of temperatures are rare so Cyprus has something to offer every month of the year. Swimming can still be enjoyed as late as November. All through the year cultural sites and festivals create wonderful memories you can still enjoy after you return home. Cyprus weather epitomizes the ideal characteristics of the region with sunny days and fine temperatures almost every day.

Here's a run down of main attractions and features of the seasons:

Spring - The Awakening

This beautiful season comes in early. While the first orchids can be seen in January, the middle of February ushers in a countryside revived after the rains of December and January. The countryside is a picture with green meadows and the blossom of almond trees.

March temperatures are moderate, around 19 degrees centigrade. It must be said, this is a wonderful time to visit to Cyprus. The daytime temperatures are comfortable and the show of wildflowers can be spectacular. Ancient ruins framed by a carpet of red anemones get even the most casual photographer clicking.

April through to the middle of May is an excellent time to visit the Akamas Peninsula or other nature areas.

Approximately 530 plant species grow in the Akamas. It is also home to 168 species of birds.

The inland forests of Aleppo pine and Juniper Crown provide unforgettable hiking or walking experiences.

Cyprus has 1,950 species of flowering plants, 140 of which grow nowhere else but on the island in part due to the ideal Cyprus weather conditions.

Summer - Some Like It Hot!

Cyprus weather guarantees a wonderful summer from mid-May to mid-October. You can experience the heat under cloudless blue skies while also enjoying the cool sea breezes.

The sea is the place to be during this season with swimming, sailing, scuba diving, and all manner of water sports among the list of possibilities. Or perhaps you prefer to relax on the beach and just sunbathe.

The weather in Cyprus at this time of year makes it more appropriate to explore the archaeological sites early in the morning or in late afternoon, avoiding the hottest part of the day.

Remember to equip yourself for the sun during the summer season. Your kit should include sunscreens appropriate for your skin type, and a wide-brimmed hat.

While the summer can be a scorcher for most parts of the island, the Troodos mountains provide a wonderful contrast.

The refreshing cooler temperatures up on the mountains may even tempt you to go hiking or enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the breathtaking scenic views.

Autumn - The Pleasant Season

Temperatures start to cool off by the end of October.

Beautiful colors can be enjoyed during October and November. In the Troodos, leaves change color adding to the beauty while the vineyards turn crimson and gold.

For those visiting from colder climates, even mid-November can feel like summer back home.

By the end of November there is a noticeable change in temperature during the nights so it's probably wise to bring some warmer clothing for the evening and night hours.

That said, swimming is still possible. On the other hand, many enjoy taking excursions to the villages on the island. Look out for wine tasting announcements to add to the experience.

Winter - A Busy Season

Expect rain sometime from November to February. Most of it often falls during December and January. After the heat of the summer Cyprus surely needs it. Even then, you can still enjoy around six hours of sunshine a day. That's Cyprus weather for you!

Rather than shutting down for the season, Cyprus is full of activity and interest during the winter months. Cyprus hosts many museums and historical sites well worth visiting. Numerous cultural events fill the calendar such as the classical music concerts and folk dancing performances at the summer resort of Agia Napa. These are often widely advertised so take note of the ones that may interest you. Snow arrives on the Troodos during this season and skiing is often possible right into February. The range of Cyprus weather conditions through the year is quite amazing.

One of the benefits of being a Mediterranean island is plentiful sunshine throughout the year. If you're from a colder, wetter climate, you'll just LOVE the Cyprus weather!