Jet off to the magical Mediterranean island of Cyprus, which is easy on the mileage but not short on luxury
WORDS: GEMMA MCCARTNEY PHOTOS: ALAMY, GETTY
When it comes to booking that sun-soaked getaway with your other half or securing that dream honeymoon location, you may not have considered Cyprus. But for those who don’t want to travel too far afield it can be a gorgeous couples’ retreat, full of opportunities for sunset walks and perfecting that Instagram paradise-style snap with your partner.
Just a four-hour flight from London, the island is home to sublime luxury beach hotels, giving you the chance to cosy up while gazing at the Mediterranean Sea. According to Greek mythology, Cyprus is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, and we can see why it’s the land of romance.
PAPHOS WHERE TO STAY
We stayed at the adults-only Ivi Mare in Paphos, which offers the ultimate environment for complete rest and relaxation. This five-star resort is located a 30-minute coastal walk away from the town’s beautiful harbour. Chilling out starts at the hotel’s stunning pool, complete with hot tub. The Utopia Pool Bar menu offers everything from local wines to signature cocktails and there’s really no need to move from your sunbed or beach club-style daybed because you can order an afternoon (or morning – it’s five o’clock somewhere!) tipple delivered directly to you via the Ivi’s app. And there are no early mornings rushing with a towel trying to reserve a sunbed as there are enough beds for full capacity at the hotel. The on-site spa offers a wide selection of treatments, and they’re all inspired by Greek history. You can enjoy a couples’ massage or facial before unwinding in the sauna or steam room.
WHERE TO GO
We explored the local area by heading to Old Paphos, which is a short taxi ride from the hotel. Old Paphos is perched on a hill, and we were blown away by the stunning views overlooking the town below. We also hit the small boutiques and shops for some retail therapy and were impressed with the variety of souvenirs and leather handbags on offer at Kennedy Square and Makarios Avenue. To refuel, we stopped for a glass of Greek white wine and the local delicacy of dips and pitta bread in one of the many cafés and bars. For those looking for the perfect photograph, the
