Where To Eat, Sleep & Experience Cyrus
From the best places worth visiting to the hotel we’re itching to check back into, read on for our Cyprus travel guide for all of the top recommendations when visiting this sunkissed island.
Located in the centre of it all, Cyprus is cushioned next to countries you may have already visited. From Egypt to Greece, Turkey to Lebanon, this little island may encompass elements of these cultures, but it’s forged its own personality.
It’s hard not to bring up the 1974 Turkish invasion, which saw the country divide into two. Still to this day, Cyprus’ capital, Nicosia, is the only divided capital city in the world. While the consequences of the conflict are still raw and evident, it’s an island built on resilience, filled with buckets of charm, traditions and community spirit.
Famed for being the home of halloumi cheese and commandaria, the world’s oldest wine, Cyprus is the ideal destination for some balmy winter sun. We visited the Mediterranean island earlier this year for a week filled with age-old tradition, captivating nature and hearty Cypriot cuisine. Here’s our ultimate Cyprus travel guide for beginners…
Where To Stay In Cyprus
After a blissful few days exploring Paphos (more on this little city later), we headed to Limassol for our final stay. Limassol is rich with ancient history and charm, and in recent years, has transformed into a cosmopolitan city bursting with late-night bars, charming coffee shops and a picturesque promenade that’s lined with windswept palm trees.
My partner spent his first few years of childhood in this southern coastal corner of Cyprus. Many of his family and close friends still live here, so I have visited previously, but after checking into Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol, I was blown away by its beauty all over again.
Located near the village of Pyrgos, between Paphos and Larnaca, this five-star Marriott resort is a tranquil oasis set amidst 25 acres of landscaped gardens. Despite opening in 2019, Parklane’s story is inspired by an ancient amphora. Dating back 4,000 years ago, the amphora was used to store precious fragrances and aromas, first found inside the ancient perfume factory in Pyrgos village by archaeologists in 2003. Parklane is slotted next to the world’s oldest perfume factory, with even its logo inspired by the amphora.
Rolling in through the gated entrance, I was amazed by just how big the resort seemed at first glance.
Alongside the main building, which lights up into a pink paradise come nightfall, the space is complete with multiple accommodations fit for all. Think bougie villas with private pools, sea-view suites and family rooms perfect for all ages. We resided in one of the superior sea-view rooms for the weekend, home to a giant king bed with cosy linens, state-of-the-art tech and perfect sunset ocean views over the resort that’ll take your breath away.
Parklane’s facilities are endless, featuring four pools including an adults-only pool, the Kalloni Spa inspired by the ocean and its healing powers and five restaurants offering Greek, Italian, Japanese and Mediterranean-inspired menus. There’s even a 300-metre-long sandy private beach at your doorstep, surrounded by tropical palm trees waving in the breeze – we spent our time dreamily rotating between the pool-side loungers and the sandy shores. If you have kids, there’s a brilliant Park Kidz area, complete with a pool and water slides, activity areas and a nursery.
If you manage to tear yourself away from the pools and beach, a visit to the Kalloni Spa is well worth it. Complete with 14 treatment rooms and three suites, we opted for a thalassotherapy treatment for two. Cyprus’ only Thalassotherapy centre, expect a truly tranquil experience where your body will be healed by seawater’s special touch. We drifted between the three pools, each varying in temperature and salinity, and fully embodied this holistic experience – my blistered feet from hiking Akamas were grateful!
Parklane is designed with everyone in mind, whether you’re a foodie looking for five-star service, a couple celebrating an anniversary, a wellness seeker or have your whole brood in tow.
Where To Eat In Limassol
At the resort
LPM
Boasting multiple locations across the globe, including Mayfair, LPM specialises in modern French cuisine. Expect simple, fresh and delicious dishes, all set to a beautifully artistic interior. We loved that complimentary fresh tomatoes, olive oil and salt were brought to the table so you can immediately indulge in the simplicity of the Riviera-inspired food. There’s also a beautiful terrace overlooking the gardens and pools.
NAMMOS
Renowned for its trendy locations, NAMMOS has a beach club at Parklane too. It’s complete with its signature blue and white striped parasols, prime location sunbeds and Mediterranean menu. Head here for a lively dining experience, delicious seafood and celebrity spotting.
Il Teatro
When the sun is blaring, you can enjoy a little taste of Capri right in Cyprus thanks to Parklane’s Il Teatro. Open seasonally, expect freshly baked pizzas, fresh pasta and a brilliant spritz.
Must-try local haunts
Cleopatra
For authentic Lebanese with a Cypriot twist, try Cleopatra. Established in 1989 after a family holiday to Lebanon, owner and chef Zenon Zenonos has gone on to create a lively restaurant abrim with a welcoming Cypriot personality and it’s firmly a local favourite that you’ll want to return again and again to. Zenon even took my boyfriend under his wing, revealing his secret tabouli recipe.
The Shopkeeper & Co
A trendy spot where you’ll see locals remotely working from, The Shopkeeper & Co is a trendy independent concept store that serves up a brilliant brunch menu. You can easily spend hours here drifting from shelf to shelf, catching up with friends or working.
Carob Mill Restaurants
Serving up a mix of Cypriot, Mediterranean and international cuisine, the Carob Mill Restaurants are a great place for groups, parties and evening get-togethers.
Things To Do In Cyprus
Explore Limassol’s old town beauty
The second largest city in Cyprus, Limassol – or, Lemesos as the locals call it – is a seaside city that despite its modernisation in recent years, still boasts buckets of old-age charm. Stroll along the palm-lined Promenade that’s often compared to LA’s Venice Boardwalk, stopping for a freddo cappuccino before venturing into the city’s Old Town. Brimming with rich architecture and traditional independent shops, wander through the narrow streets to uncover the city centre’s charming character.
Top tip: It’s super easy to get into the city from Parklane. Either book a taxi at the front desk or hop on the Line 30 bus. The bus stop is right outside the resort entrance and is the first stop on the line (and final on the returning route).
Swim around Aphrodite’s Rock
Famed for being the home of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, Cyprus is scattered with areas dating back to the Greek goddess. One is Petra tou Romiou, which translates to ‘Rock of the Roman’ and is more commonly referred to as Aphrodite’s Rock. Boasting foaming (and often rough) waters, it’s said to be the birthplace of the Goddess and is made up of picturesque rock formations. Legend has it that if you swim around the rock three times, you will be forever blessed with eternal beauty. Either way, it’s a lovely stoney beach worth exploring. Note it does get busy, with most tourist excursions offering visits to this location.
Uncover history at the Tombs of the Kings
Whether you’re a history buff or want to learn more about Cyprus’ rich history, this world-famous Archaeological Park of Katos Pafos is well worth a visit. Dating back to the 4th century BC, the archaeological site is home to underground tombs that are carved out of solid rock. While it’s named ‘Tombs of the Kings’, it’s thought that those buried would have been rich aristocrats and high-ranking officials.
After you’ve explored this historic site, venture into Paphos’ old town to explore the narrowing streets and independent boutiques. If visiting in the heart of the season, head towards Paphos Harbour and Port for a sunset tipple before enjoying a traditional Cypriot meze at The Windmill.
Top Tip: If travelling during peak season, head to Tombs of the Kings in the morning to avoid the blaring midday heat.
Visit the capital city of Nicosia
Split in two, Nicosia is the only divided capital city in the world. On the south Greek border, you’ll find plenty of tourist attractions worth visiting, from historic museums including The Cyprus Museum to bustling eateries and late-night coffee shops.
Take a jeep safari across Akamas
For adventure lovers, book yourself into a jeep safari experience exploring the best of the Akamas Peninsula. Located on the west coast of the island, this national reserve park is a breathtaking area stretching 230 kilometres. Expect to journey through valleys, hike the Avakas George trail and spot a few friendly mountain goats on your route. Most tours allow you to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters known as Blue Lagoon, the prettiest waters on this side of the island.
Our Akamas tour included a short visit to the fresh Adonis Baths Waterfalls. The water may be freezing at first but it’s a unique, refreshing experience – I’d recommend burying your head under the fresh waterfall even if it’s just for a couple of seconds!
Top Tip: Look around for the best Akamas tours. Parklane offers a great jeep safari option allowing you to explore the best of the island in a day.
Discover the art of traditional lace-making
For those looking for a traditional experience to book, visiting Lefkara needs to be on your itinerary. Located on the foot of the Troodos Mountains, the small village has become world-renowned for its delicate lace embroidery and silver craftsmanship. The Lefkaritika patterns can be found all over the island in homes, restaurants and souvenir shops, but it’s in this mountain village where you’ll be able to see yia-yias continuing to make these lace crafts that have been passed down through generations. Visit Lekara before heading through the Troodos mountains, soaking up some of the best views in Cyprus.
The Verdict
Even if I didn’t now have family ties in Cyprus, it’s easy to see why holiday makers return here again and again. From its rich history to its traditional Cypriot cuisine and friendly hospitality, it’s hard not to fall in love with the community spirit and pride that shines within the locals. If you’re able to, I’d recommend hiring a car for your stay to explore the best of what’s on offer and booking a couple of excursions to see this beautiful island through the eyes of a local.
How To Get There
Both the cities of Paphos and Larnaca have airports, with the average flight time from London around 4 hours and 30 minutes. Getting to Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol is super easy and transfers can be arranged directly with the hotel. It’s around a 45-minute car ride from Larnaca airport to the hotel and around a 55-minute car ride from Paphos to the hotel.
Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol, 11 Giannou Kranidioti Street, Limassol, Cyprus, 4534
Rates start from £190 per night with breakfast included
