When first arriving at the stylish Larnaka Airport and stepping out into the warm air, things seemed strangely familiar with the cars driving on the left side of the road and the friendly local people speaking excellent English; great if you want to hire a car and explore the island for yourself. With around 340 days of sunshine a year, tourism is Cyprus’ major industry and the standard and style of accommodation is extensive and varied. Travelling through a breathtaking valley of vineyards and orchards through unspoilt countryside, I arrived at the 5-Star Columbia Beach Resort. With a backdrop of white cliffs descending into the Bay of Pissouri and overlooking 2km of quiet blue flag beach, it’s no wonder the resort attracts celebrities including Piers Morgan. The beach resort boasts 94 spacious suites, each with luxury added touches. There’s a real wow factor when entering the bathroom with its king-size tub, his and hers sinks and built-in radio. Each bathroom has its own separate shower stall and is stocked with indulgent Molton Brown products. If you enjoy your sports and leisure, there is plenty on offer at the Columbia Beach Resort. The Columbia Spa has an extensive range of spa treatments including Daniele de Winter, Molton Brown and Phytomer. While waiting for your treatment, why not make use of the heated indoor
pool, Jacuzzi or steam and sauna rooms. There’s even a relaxation area to lie down with a book and a cup of herbal tea. Other leisure activities available are the fully equipped gym, squash and tennis courts, complimentary yoga and a wide range of water sports. In the nearby area there are three championship golf courses, to which the resort staff will happily organise your transport and green fees. Cyprus is well known for its cuisine and you won’t be disappointed by the offerings at the resort. The rustic courtyard Apollo Taverna even houses its own little chapel and leads down the beach. Dining here is a real traditional Cypriot experience serving freshly caught fish, feta salads and lots of mouth-watering local meze, whilst soaking up the atmosphere listening to the sounds of a guitar duo. If you’re a lover of fine dining, the Dionysos restaurant in the main part of the resort is the place for that very special meal. Breakfast is a real treat sitting in the morning sun beside the 80-metre lagoon-style infinity pool. The only problem is deciding what to have from the cooked and continental style breakfast. Following on from a hearty (or healthy) breakfast, take in the beautiful island by mountain biking on one of the national cycle routes and discover some of the many ancient and historical monuments. Or enjoy wine tasting at a local
vineyard, or just make the most of the beautiful beaches along your journey. For those who enjoy a lively night out, why not travel into the large coastal town of Limassol which is about a 25-minute journey from Pissouri? Here you can eat at one of the best steak houses on the island in the trendy, chic and modern Columbia Plaza, and finish the night by heading upstairs to the 7 Seas live music bar (www.columbiaplaza.com). With approximately just over four hours flying time and 20 minutes to one-hour airport transfers (depending on which airport you fly into), the Columbia Beach Resort really is the finest luxury 5-star hotel and spa, tucked away from the packed tourist resorts in Cyprus. The resort also caters for families, with children’s clubs running throughout half term periods. Plus guests have full use of the facilities at the sister Columbia Beach Hotel right next door which hosts a nightly dinner buffet and regular live entertainment. For more info or bookings visit www.classic-collection.co.uk/cyprus/columbiabeach-resort or call 0800 008 7288. Tourism information www.visitcyprus.com
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