Well I never knew…

All the years that I have been in travel, I always knew Cyprus was historical but I never actually realised exactly how much history is on this mesmorising Island. It’s steeped with over 10,000 years of history, mythology and pristine beauty; I am not sure where to begin.

Paphos itself has so much to offer. This mystical old town that once belonged to the Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Greece is a perfect destination for singles, couples and families; especially those who enjoy history, heritage and charm.

Paphos is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of love and beauty and the city is filled with monuments to worship her. The entire town of Paphos has so much history it’s been declared as a world heritage site by UNESCO.

For those looking for something a little more adventurous, then make sure you bring your driving license and head out on a quad bike or 4×4 buggy.  You can hire these for the day and experience some fun off road.  We loved this experience and had two days, during which we took our buggy miles across gravel tracks, through potholes, across sandy cliffs and had nothing but fun and giggles.  We then stumbled across Lara Bay, a turtle conservation station and an amazing beach with no crowds just peace and quiet with views of the jagged Paphos coast line.

As part of my educational trip to Paphos, I visited the Constantinou Bros Hotels where we spent seven nights at the Asimina Hotel in Paphos and visited the Athena Royal Beach Hotel, Athena Beach Hotel and the Pioneer Beach Hotel. These hotels are prestige, low key and all located in the best part of Paphos. The service was 5* and the food was 5* – I could not fault any one of these properties.

Three of the four properties are adult only and the Athena Beach hotel is a family property benefiting from family facilities such as floodlit tennis courts, mini golf and a children’s playground with Kids Club. The Athena also features a 24-rink indoor and outdoor Bowls Green as well large ballrooms and dance programs available to book.

All properties are within 30 minutes from the airport and are similar in design; they have all been recently refurbished and depending on which property you stay in, you can take advantage of leisure facilities including: freshwater swimming pools, indoor pools, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis. In the hotel’s Elixir Spa there is a heated pool, a sauna, a steam bath, a fully equipped gym and a hairdressing salon. You can also choose from a good choice of professional massages and body treatments, aromatherapy and other treatments are also available to help relax and rejuvenate.

I have fallen in love with this island and can’t wait to return again next year for my own holiday….

Christina Purcell is managing director of the Holiday With Us Group.

 

 

 

 

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