Island of Love – Part 1
Cyprus has entered the dating game. Swipe through Paphos’ and Larnaca’s ‘profiles’ to see which resort could be your holiday soulmate.
Paphos
If sea-view serenades and mythological meet-cutes are your thing, then the Paphos region is ready to steal your heart. It’s the kind of place that knows exactly how to make a first impression, thanks to resorts like Limassol, the biggest on the island, and Aphrodite Hills, an away-from-it-all retreat studded with pine trees and a PGA approved golf course.
First dates in the Paphos area come with a side of mythology. Head down to the shore (at sunset for major aura points), follow the signs for Petra tou Romiou, and snuggle up in front of the legendary spot where the goddess of love, Aphrodite, is said to have risen, giving Cyprus its nickname, the Island of Love. Further inland, there’s Ancient Kourion, where you can wander, hand-in-hand, beside intricate Roman mosaics and through a crumbly amphitheatre.
Looking for something with a bit more sparkle? The Blue Lagoon might just be your type. From the peaceful resort of Latchi, you’ll cruise across the water, with plenty of time for a dip in the diamond-clear lagoon. As the sun begins to set, you’ll make your way to the harbour. By the time you get back, all the restaurants along the seafront will be twinkling under festoon lights, that’s date night sorted!
Speaking of date nights, Cyprus knows a thing or two about wining and dining. In the Paphos region, that means mezze feasts that last for hours. In the summer months, villages, like Kouklia, even close off access to vehicles, so that tavernas can spill out onto the roads. It’s the stuff of movies; think candlelit tables, traditional music and spontaneous dancing. Expect to see Cyprus’ most famous export, halloumi cheese, on menus all over the island, alongside a beef stew called stifado, as well as spanakopita – a flaky spinach-and-feta pie. And for a sweet ending, loukoumades – the local take on doughnuts.
