Reasons why Cyprus is a Fantastic Holiday Destination

Nestled in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea is the vibrant and wonderful island of Cyprus. For those looking for a summer or winter sun holiday then Cyprus is the destination for you. As the largest island in the Mediterranean there is something to suit everyone on their luxury holidays.

Plenty in Cyprus for families

For those travelling with younger guests Cyprus is the perfect sunshine destination. There are numerous glorious sandy beaches, watersports, dive centres for older children and Marine and water parks to be enjoyed by all. With the islands fascinating heritage there are numerous museums in both Paphos and Larnaca including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Tombs of the Kings, which is great for exploring. Due to the family-friendly nature of the island the hotels and resorts also offer excellent children’s clubs.

Tomb of the Kings

Families with younger children will delight in the facilities, children’s club and crèche (4 months to 12 years), at the fantastic five-star Almyra hotel, Paphos. This contemporary hotel also offers a ‘Baby go lightly’ service allowing you to pre-order in-room baby facilities – perfect for holidaying Mums & Dads! For guests with older children the Almyra’s sister hotel the five-star Annabelle, is located nearby and offers teenage clubs for children between 13 and 17 years. Guests staying at either are welcomed in using the facilities at both hotels.

Things to do in Cyprus for couples

Cyprus is an exceptional holiday destination for couples travelling either on their own or with groups of friends. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, by the pool at an adult-only hotel, sip cocktails on the sea front, dance all night or relax in a five-star spa you will find your indulgence in Cyprus. For the explorers there are the numerous enchanting archaeological sites such as Aphrodite’s Rock in Paphos, the birthplace of the Goddess. Situated between Paphos and Limassol the site offers stunning views over the beautiful rock formations and sparkling sea. Equally there is the Greco-Roman amphitheatre, Kourion with its wonderful mosaics, or the ancient city of Salamis. If you are after something a bit more active the numerous watersports and PADI dive centres will delight. Activities on dry land include a number or sports such as cycling and hiking. With many rural and untouched areas it is perfect for those looking to enjoy the local area by bike or by foot. Ayia Napa was once a popular clubbing destination and although still remains a heavily commercial area, a new wave of holiday-makers has seen the town develop a rather more sophisticated feel. With chic bars, cafes and restaurants you are sure to find somewhere to relax in the evening and should you want to, venture on into the night!

Cyprus for the seasoned traveller

The more mature and discerning traveller will too find great enjoyment on this Mediterranean island. The laid-back atmosphere and cool air of the Troodos Mountains will make for a wonderful excursion away from the busy beaches and the tranquil, traditional villages are perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Protaras Cyprus

There are also many superb golf courses and tennis academies for those wishing to keep up with their sport whilst away, or there are many spas for those just looking to be pampered. The five-star deluxe Anassa hotel is the ideal accommodation for couples or groups looking for somewhere to stay on their luxury Cyprus holiday. As a member of the Leading Hotels of the World this tasteful hotel enjoys a quiet location on the Akamas Peninsula. Its fantastic facilities include outdoor and indoor pools, Thalassa spa and a range of restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Just a forty-five minute drive from Paphos it is a wonderful place to stay on your holidays to Cyprus.

Great choice of food in Cyprus

One of the fundamental factors into why you should visit Cyprus is the stunning cuisine. Traditional Cypriot cuisine is quite closely related to Greek and offers a truly Mediterranean medley of flavours. Meats and seafood are popular with favourites being souvla, grilled meat over charcoal and seafood dishes including calamari and sea-bass. The well-known halloumi cheese is also a favourite. I suggest heading to the smaller restaurants or tavernas to taste some of these traditional dishes. The food nowadays is just as good as it has ever been however, the rise in tourism has seen traditional dishes influenced and tweaked to create new and tantalizing flavours. There also many international restaurants too including Italian, Indian and Chinese. There also plenty of wineries to visit across the island, particularly in the Troodos Mountains and tasting sessions are the perfect way to spend a day. The annual wine festival in Lemesos held during late August to September is an excellent time to visit Cyprus. This stunning festival is held in the Municipal Gardens and includes food, music and dancing as well as wine.

Annual carnival in Cyprus

The spectacular Carnival is held annually between late February and early March and sees numerous events and shows take place over eleven days, with the Grand Carnival Parade as the finale. Hosted predominantly in Lemesos there are also a couple of smaller events in Paphos.

Carnival costumes in Cyprus

Our quick-fire reasons as to why you should visit Cyprus

• It’s only four and half hours flight from London
• There is sunshine all year round
• Fantastic sandy beaches
• Excellent food
• Friendly charismatic culture
• English is widely spoken
• You can ski in the winter should you want to
• Excellent for Christmas holidays

And here is the real deciding factor….

• They drive on the same side of the road as us Brits!

Have you been to Cyprus? We’d love to hear your favourite places to eat and visit on Facebook!