Summer is finally here and I’m sure you’re in the market for your next holiday. Well, look no further because I’ve got the ideal diverse destination for you. It doesn’t matter if you’re a nature lover, a beach bum, a history buff or all three – Protaras (my favourite resort in all of Cyprus) has more than enough to satisfy even the pickiest of travellers.
If You’re Looking for Relaxation…
…you’ve got to head to one of Protaras’s many beaches to soak up the rays and lounge in the sand. Deciding this is how you’d like to spend your days is the easy part – the hardest choice is picking which beach you’re going to visit first. Luckily, I’ve been to quite of few of them and have some top suggestions for anyone looking for a healthy dollop of serenity along with their sand and sea.
- Fig Tree Bay – This is perhaps Protaras’s most popular beach and, in all honesty, it’s not hard to see why. It holds the coveted Blue Flag status, the sand is golden and fine-grained, the water is a mesmerising crystal clear blue and the surrounding area has cafes, restaurants and bars all within easy reach. Fun fact: the name itself comes from (you guessed it) a lone fig tree that has been there since the seventeenth century.
- Sirena Beach – If you’re looking to escape the tourists, you will find this secluded bay the perfect relaxation destination. The small sandy strip offers calming views and a nearby restaurant that serves traditional cuisine… so there’s no need to bring your own snacks!
- Xistaria Beach – Due to its lack of sand, steep coastline and rocky shore, this picturesque bay doesn’t often get a lot of visitors. However, don’t let that dissuade you from giving it a try! This is a unique destination with breath-taking views unlike anything you’ve seen before.
If You’re Looking for History…
…take a daytrip to the ancient Roman city of Salamis. It used to be the capital of Cyprus as far back as 1100 BC, and has been occupied by everyone from the Persians and the Egyptians to the Assyrians and the Romans. However, it has since given in to the forces of nature and died a natural death. Despite this, it is still a fantastic site that history buffs will absolutely love visiting. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for the ruins of the Gymnasium, the theatre and the Great Hall, which held three rooms for baths (the Frigidarium for cold, the Sudatorium for hot and the Caldarium for steam).
Did you know? Salamis suffered two earthquakes in its time – one in 76 AD and another in 331 AD.
If You’re a Nature Lover…
…visit Cape Greco. It’s been listed as a National Forest Park for almost two decades and boats tranquil natural beauty and a high selection of wildlife. Be on the lookout for lizards, butterflies, birds, hedgehogs, foxes and hares, as these creatures are all commonly spotted here. If you like hiking, there are quite a few trails you can wander up and down. Other active activities include cycling, diving and exploring the nearby sea caves. Alternatively, you can head to Konnos Bay Beach and watch the sun set. If you love being outside amid natural beauty, you’ll be spoilt for choice at Cape Greco.
Where to Stay
Capo Bay Hotel – If relaxation is top of your list, Capo Bay is the place you should stay (pardon the cheesy rhyme). This hotel is situated right on the beach, directly above Fig Tree Bay. Let your stresses melt away at their spa centre, where you can indulge in a steam bath or a sauna, or have a soak in the hot tub or hammam. Nature lovers will also enjoy it here, as the gardens feature fish ponds and some of the rooms even have views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Narcissos Bay View Villa – This villa is ideal for travellers looking to spend some quality time together. You can easily be self-sufficient as the kitchen is well equipped and features a microwave and dishwasher. A number of beaches are nearby, as is Cape Greco (nature enthusiasts take note). You can rent bicycles at the property, use the onsite barbecue, have a swim in the outdoor pool or just relax in the garden or on the patio. You’ll be hard pressed to find a villa in Protaras better than Narcissos Bay View.
How to Get There
Getting to Protaras is a piece of cake. All you’ve got to do is hop on a plane from any old airport in the UK and you’ll land at Larnaca Airport (LCA) in four and a half hours (I’d recommend bringing some entertainment for the flight so you don’t get bored). Once you land, it’s only another hour to get to your final destination.
The easiest way to get from Larnaca Airport to Protaras is via an airport transfer – and if you pre-book with Shuttle Direct, it makes this even simpler. I always use them whenever I go abroad and they never fail to get my holiday off to a great start. You can pick from a private or shared transport, the drivers are always friendly and the service is reliable, efficient and affordable. Don’t just take my word for it though. Book with them during your next getaway and see for yourself.
Overview
- UK to LCA Flight Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- LCA to Protaras Distance: 47 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 1 hour
About Shuttle Direct
Here at Shuttle Direct, we pride ourselves on being one of the best airport transfer services throughout Europe and North Africa. Let us help you get where you need to go on your next holiday. Book online today and get your getaway off on the right foot.
