Cyprus is a country that lies at a cross roads of three continents. The third largest island in the Mediterranean the country attracts over two million tourists annually. There is something to suit every traveller in Cyprus – family resorts, world class spas, golf courses, marinas, agrotourism, food and wine trails. For the active, the warm waters of Cyprus are perfect for diving and waterskiing. Adventure seekers can explore the beauty of Cyprus with trekking or birdwatching tours, while golfing enthusiasts play on award winning courses.
To the east, Larnaca boasts a palm-fringed promenade and an attractive marina; the resorts of Ayia Napa and Protaras are famed for their golden, sandy beaches and crystal clear waters; the cosmopolitan capital city, Nicosia, provides a charming blend of old and new.
Cyprus boasts over 300 conference venues – ranging from unique historical buildings to international hotels – with a total seating capacity of almost 35,000. With a year-round temperate climate and a landscape which ranges from beautiful beaches to mountain scenery, Cyprus has a reputation as a top conference and events destination stretching back to over 30 years. The Cyprus Convention Bureau was officially launched in spring 2012. This body operates as a division of the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) with an advisory committee made up of the private sector.
Island of love
Offering everything from stunning five-star beachfront hotels to secluded agrotourism properties in its mountainous interior, the island has something for every taste – and with over 300 days of sunshine a year, couples are almost guaranteed a sunny start as they set out on their lives together.
Follow in the trail of the goddess of love herself. Take a drive along the coast from Limassol to Paphos, stopping off at Petra tou Romiou, the iconic rocky outcrop said to be the place Aphrodite emerged, fully formed, from the waters of the Mediterranean. From here continue west to the unspoilt Akamas Peninsula. A short walk through meandering paths brings you to the Baths of Aphrodite, a secluded pool where legend holds that the goddess seduced Apollo.
There are over 40 boutique wineries scattered across the island – the Limassol region alone is home to 20 – many offering tasting sessions. CTO has developed a series of six self-drive wine routes taking in some of the best small-scale vineyards, as well as some stunning scenery – offering an easy and enjoyable to way to discover the island. Whilst gourmets will delight at the range of tasty and wholesome dishes on offer across the island all serving a host of dishes using fresh and local ingredients, ripened by the Mediterranean sunshine.
Located by the sea-front in the old town Limassol’s medieval castle is reputedly where Richard the Lion-heart married noblewoman Bengaria of Navarre, crowning her Queen of England. From here, it’s a short drive to the stunning Kourion Theatre and an evening of romance under the stars – set on a hillside and with an uninterrupted backdrop of Mediterranean, the theatre regularly hosts plays ranging from Classical re-workings to Shakespeare.
For couples wanting to experience the real Cyprus, Casale Panayiotis is the ideal choice. Nestled in the Troodos Mountains, this boutique hotel sits within the spa village of Kalopanayiotis overlooking the St John Lampadistis monastery.
Whilst for those wanting to soak-up Cyprus’ coastline, which is famed for, the Thanos Hotel, Annabelle is the perfect option. A family-run oasis set within the six acres of lush green gardens on Paphos’ sea front, Annabelle offers understated design along with four restaurants and a spa featuring a range of organic and marine-based therapies.
