For a peaceful villa holiday on North Cyprus away from the noise and distractions of resorts or town, it's time to head west to Karsiyaka. Just 18kms from Kyrenia, or a 30 minute drive, Karsiyaka nestles at the foot of the highest mountain in the Five Finger range, just at the point where the main coast road turns inland towards Guzelyurt.

Karsiyaka is blessed with stunning views to the mountains, and a flat plain between the mountains and the crystal clear sea beyond. In Karsiyaka, you get a real taste of true Cypriot life, unhurried, untouched by hotel complexes or overdevelopment, encouraging you to simply relax and go with the flow on your villa holiday in this quiet corner of Northern Cyprus. Not that quiet means no facilities; there are markets, a butcher, bakers, a barber and even an internet café all within close proximity of villas to rent in Karsiyaka.

Any villa to rent in Karsiyaka is only five minutes drive from the beautiful bay near the village, and Horseshoe Beach. Many UK visitors staying in a villa for rent in Karsiyaka feel at home on Horseshoe Beach, as it's pebbly! However, Horseshoe Beach offers good swimming and snorkelling for adults, and a beach restaurant for lunch to the sound of lapping waves. The golden sandy beaches at Denizkizi with safe, sheltered waters for children, is just a few minutes drive away towards Alsancak. So too are the fascinating Roman fish tanks carved into the rocks at the far end of Mare Monte beach, well worth the stroll along the sands to discover. Inland, the nearby Gecitkoy reservoir is a lovely area for walking or bird watching.

You can explore a whole variety of historic sites, simply by renting a villa at Karsiyaka. Follow the road through the mountains to Güzelyurt, to the magnificent sweep of Guzelyurt Bay, and explore the ancient palaces at Soli and Vouni. If you prefer your history more intact, then it's only 30 minutes drive from your holiday villa in Karsiyaka to the bustling town of Kyrenia, with its elegant Venetian harbour, mighty castle and museums.

There are several good restaurants in the Karsiyaka area, including local fish restaurants down by the sea. You can quickly drive into Lapta to the east, to enjoy excellent food at the highly recommended Aphrodite fish restaurant. Try a generous portion of stifado, a game stew made with red wine, cinnamon, and onions. The Veni Vici restaurant is always busy with families enjoying a taste of Italy in north Cyprus, while ex-pats enjoy the beer, chat and atmosphere of the Stumble Inn and the sports screenings at JKs bar.

This is North Cyprus at its most laid back and relaxed. So, chill out in a villa for rent from Amy Villas the summer.