Paphos

Sharon Matthews on 08 August 2021
I was fortunate to be one of the lucky (if not a little brave) travellers of summer 2021, testing the new Covid fit to fly certificate and boy was it worth it!

It was my first visit to Cyprus, and we flew to Paphos, and I was actually surprised at how close the array of Paphos seafront hotels are to the airport. Within 15 minutes of getting in the taxi, we were checked in and in the room and headed straight for the pool and a nice refreshing drink - Iced latte for me, it was still only late afternoon. We stayed at the Athena Royal Beach Hotel, which whilst despite not being catered towards young children does have some facilities and certainly makes them feel very welcome.

Paphos seafront is almost door-to-door hotels set back from the beach, but some with private beach access. This promenade runs for miles and, if you are a runner like me, you will be in flat running heaven. Even the hotels at the southern end of the promenade, close to the picturesque church - from which you can watch magical sunsets, are located just over a mile to the main harbour area.

For those wishing to do very little many properties are just steps from the beach. But I would highly recommend a visit into both the old and new towns. We visited the Tombs of the Kings, close by to Paphos - this is a large necropolis, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and travelled here and to Coral Bay using the local bus service. Cyprus has so much to offer for walkers too. It’s a year-round resort and inland, there are vineyards that I believe are well worth a visit. For the teenagers, especially those avid shoppers as there is a miniature but extensive choice of shops - Trafford Centre style - if that’s your thing, even if just to escape from the high afternoon heat for a couple of hours it is fab for a change of scene.

We had a fabulous time, and I would not hesitate to return here for a relaxing warm week by the beach and a good dose of fresh air and Vitamin Sea.