GREECE & CYPRUS LIMASSOL DESTINATIONS


F


rom landscaped gardens filled with towering palms


and lemon trees, I stepped into a vast lobby with a cathedral-high ceiling, acres of white marble, intricately carved walnut, natural stone and a show-stopping Bohemian glass chandelier – all inspired by Cyprus. Standing at the geographical and cultural borders of three continents, the storied Mediterranean island has a long and fascinating history; legend has it that it was the birthplace of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love. Today it offers some of


Europe’s cleanest waters, cosmopolitan cities and


traditional mountain villages, plus a rich culinary tradition. And now it has a new luxury base from which to explore.


 BEACH BEAUTY Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, part of Marriott International, opened in March on a coveted beachfront location – and no expense has been spared. Designed by Harrods Interiors,


the expansive rooms – some of the largest in Cyprus – are bright, contemporary and high-tech, with views over the Mediterranean or the mountains. It’s just a 15-minute drive


from Limassol and, as I sipped a cocktail crafted with thyme-


At the cultural and geographical borders of three continents, Cyprus has a long and fascinating history


infused gin on the terrace, I could see the city’s lights twinkling on the horizon. The island’s financial hub is a blend of old and new. It has spread over the years but at its core is a medieval, fortress-like castle, surrounded by a labyrinth of ancient lanes where shuttered


houses, contemporary boutiques, restaurants and bars sit shoulder to shoulder. Next to the old harbour, where fishing boats still bob in the water, the glitzy new marina has space for 1,000 yachts, backed by exclusive apartments and luxury shops, while at night its alfresco bars and restaurants buzz with a mix of locals and visitors. Limassol’s central location on the southern coast means that in little more than 30 minutes, you can reach two international airports – Paphos to the west and Larnaca to the east – along with archaeological sites, many of the island’s 64 Blue Flag


2 May 2019travelweekly.co.uk35


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