Cyprus is a labyrinth of unending beaches, modern towns catering to all cultures, dramatic mountains and sleepy hamlets. Yes, it is famous for its beaches so much so that most people end up in their resorts and miss exploring the mountains and hamlets of this beautiful country.
We went towards late summer and the weather was very pleasant. We flew into Larnaca airport and smoothly got into an upgraded airport rental car for our journey to Paphos, which was 2 hours away.
Check in: Hotel
The resort is around 3 miles from Paphos town centre and just a 10 minute drive away. It is big, modern and very clean. A lovely canopy of vibrant pink bougainvillea drapes the buildings. The reception of cavernous and staff are very welcoming. We stayed in the sea facing suite and had great sunset views. There are 2 pools including one exclusively for adults. Plenty of restaurants and beach bars nearby. Very clean beach. Would recommend the resort for families and adults only holidays.
Day 1 –
Chill day at the resort – I had promised Rhea that we will spend a full day doing nothing, absolutely nothing at the resort. And so that started as soon as we reached. Spent the whole day moving from one pool to hte other, to the bed and repeat. Dreaded it at the start but started enjoying it after a few cocktails 🙂
Day 2 – After breakfast, we drove to Latchi Harbour via the beautiful mountains with spectacular views of the glittering sea and white washed towns below. At the harbour, we took a half day cruise which took us to the famour Blue Lagoon. Spent the rest of the afternoon swimming in the lagoon and then savouring the BEST barbeque chicken ever on the boat.
Dinner was an exclusive experience at the St George Tavern, known as one of the best by the locals. We had a unique experience there. There is no menu and you get totally spoilt by the constant small plates of food that get delivered by the ever so attentive staff, most of whom are related to the business itself. The owner just had one request- that we should try and eat everything as its his mother who has worked hard int he kitchen to make the food. There was never any doubt that the food would all be devoured instantly, it was so tasty.
Day 3 –
Aprodite Rocks-
An hour’s drive from Paphos took us through the meandering roads uphill to the well sign posted area, apparently Aphrodite’s birth place! Ample parking. Once parked, you can descend down to the beach which is pebbly but with gorgeous views. Wear good shoes though! There is a shop nearby to buy water and icecream etc. It was very very hot.
Paphos town-
The whole of Paphos is a world heritage site. The old town itself has all the flavours of an european haunt and with gorgeous sunsets. We spent the afternoon relaxing by the beach followed by strolling around the harbour in the evening.
Day 4 –
Troodos Mountains and Monastery
The Troodos mountains are home to tranquil forests, magnificient mosteries and ancient cobblestone lined villages. We visited one of the villages Omodos nested deep in the mountains. The focal point was a 11th centruy Byzanthine church with bright murals and an eerie tranquil around it. The village was pretty with beautiful facades, locals mingling with scattered tourists, some playing cards, nibbling on mezze and wine and watching the world go by. We joined in and sat for 2 hours, half of it was just watching some workers help navigate a large truck through a narrow bend in the village square!
Paphos Harbour
The drive back from Troodos mountains was stunning and we were starving by the time we reached the resort. Dinner was at the harbour at Theo’s restaurant. Spent the rest of the day just watching boats go past in slow motion, trying to keep the sands of time still.
A slow eveing by the harbour, sipping some more cocktails and it was rest time again.
Last day we spent mainly by the beach, not wanting to leave, watching the sunset together over and over again. Promise to come back.
To my Kids with Love 