Paphos, with its natural beauty, approximately 300 days of sunshine and rich history, is a destination that’s hard to resist.
Located on the sun-drenched south-west coast of Cyprus, Paphos offers clear-blue seas, ancient sites, thriving local businesses, and delectable food and wine. Within minutes of stepping into the new Cali Resort and Spa and sipping on a glass of prosecco, I felt like I had found paradise.
The evening heat hit me as soon as I disembarked from my four-and-a-half-hour flight, but a welcome drink in the cool Sonata Bar was the perfect start to my holiday. This was my first time at a five-star adult hotel, and as I made my way through the spacious lobby, up the lift and down the corridor to my room, I had a feeling nothing would surpass my initial impressions of the Cali Resort.
The five-star hotel
Each of the 201 beautifully refurbished rooms and suites are airy and filled with light, decorated in a tropical, emerald green theme, reports the Express.
Inside, guests can enjoy a modern walk-in shower with luxurious amenities, relax in comfortable Cali bathrobes and slippers, or have a drink from the minibar or hot drink facilities.
Upon entering my room, I was greeted with a fresh fruit platter which was replenished daily. Opening the balcony door, I was met with a stunning view of the illuminated swimming pool.
I then sank onto my inviting mattress, eager to explore more of Paphos when the sun came up.
One of the two eateries within the Cali Resort and Spa is the Aria Restaurant, where a freshly made omelette from the dedicated cooking station makes for a splendid start to your day. The restaurant offers a lavish buffet from dawn till dusk, featuring international dishes as well as authentic Mediterranean and Cypriot cuisine.
Whether you choose to dine indoors or al fresco, each evening presents a different culinary theme, ensuring there’s always something new to sample. You can spend your entire day at the resort, basking in the glorious sunshine and unwinding by the pool but its central location also makes it an ideal base if you’re keen to explore more of Paphos.
The island of Paphos
In Paphos, you’ll find the locals are incredibly welcoming, everyone speaks English and they even drive on the left. Just a short drive away lies Latchi Harbour, where you can embark on a boat trip and sail along the Akamas peninsula to the enchanting Blue Lagoon.
Taking a swim in the sapphire-blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the lagoon is both breathtaking and tranquil.
If you’re feeling peckish, the Yiangos and Peter Fish Tavern, a favourite harbourside eatery, serves up an impeccable seafood meze. Paired with a chilled, Cypriot white wine, the tender calamari, succulent prawns, large sea bream and accompanying feta salad are simply divine.
But the real highlight for me was the Marida a small fish native to the region which is a must-try.
After a bustling day, a late afternoon by the pool seemed an ideal respite, and swiftly upon returning to the hotel, an Aperol Spritz was enjoyed in hand. The Cali Resort boasted an inviting pool, fringed with sunbeds submerged in its shallow ends, providing not just relief from the heat but also a sense of private leisure.
The second night at the hotel unfolded as a unique culinary journey at the Fiki Japanese Fusion Restaurant. Here, an array of Japanese-inspired treats, from freshly crafted sushi to fiery Oriental dishes, tantalised the taste buds, offering an immersion into exotic tastes.
Paphos’ captivating history beckoned the following day. With more than three decades of experience, Mary Patroklou of the local tourist board proved an outstanding guide, introducing our group to the depths of Cypriot culture.
Her pride shone through when she summed up her thoughts on Paphos: “Paphos is quality”. Our exploration led us to the venerable Tomb of the Kings, part of the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1980, where high-ranking dignitaries and nobles found their final resting place from the Hellenistic and Roman times.
Amidst the baking heat, we gratefully sought solace meandering through the remarkable tombs that evoked visions of ancient cinematic grandeur.
For me, a personal highlight was exploring a villa famous for its extraordinary floor mosaics the Grand House of Dionysus, named after the Greek god of wine. These mesmerising artworks were hidden until the 1960s when a local farmer discovered them.
Each meticulously crafted mosaic portrays scenes of history, hunting and mythology.
Ever since I performed in a play about Theseus and the Minotaur in primary school, I’ve been fascinated with Greek mythology. So, it was quite special to see some of the stories I read as a child depicted in such an impressive manner.
While in Paphos, you can also visit the birthplace of Aphrodite, a beach where locals enjoy a dip in the refreshing water near a massive rock where, according to legend, the goddess of love was born. A popular spot for tourists, you can download an app, called Aphrodite’s Birthplace, to see a digital version of the goddess in your own photos.
Paphos Old Town is bustling with businesses where you can sample local products and buy handmade arts and crafts. The area has seen a revival in recent years, and colourful artwork adorns the walls of the historic town.
If you’re after a fantastic view of Paphos, make your way to Muse restaurant which offers a panoramic view of the town. As I savoured their lountza halloumi in Greek pita, I spotted the M/V Demetrios II shipwreck in the distance, a must-see photo opportunity while visiting Paphos.
Before I knew it, our final day had arrived and following a swift visit to the nearby Coral Bay Beach, I made my way to my spa treatment. Cali Resort and Spa offers a fitness room, indoor pool, steam room and sauna at no extra cost for hotel guests, but I was keen to maximise my last hours in this paradise with a soothing massage.
As each tension was eased from my back and the scent of tranquil, natural products filled the air, I realised I could have easily spent the entire day there, foregoing my flight. However, as I journeyed home after a splendid few days, I was certain it wouldn’t be my last trip to Paphos.
Book the holiday
- easyJet holidays offers seven nights on all-inclusive+ at the Cali Resort & Spa in Paphos, Cyprus, from £985pp with 23kg baggage, transfers and flights from Gatwick on November 19. easyjet.com/en/holidays
- Holiday Extras offers a room for night at the Sofitel at Gatwick North on November 18 from £169; entry to the Plaza Premium Lounge at Gatwick North on November 19 from £40pp. holidayextras.com
- MORE INFO at visitpafos.org.cycaliresortandspa.com