Almyra, Paphos, Cyprus - Explore & Book
"I challenge anyone not to have a great holiday at Almyra. OK, so it's bigger than most i-escape hotels, and the resort town of Paphos can be a bit tacky. But hey, you've got 4 pools to choose from (including adult-only options, a godsend during the popular school holidays), lawned grounds for sunbathing, a small patch of beach to swim or sail from, a superb spa to pummel you into glorious submission, and kids' clubs to look after the little ones. There's Asian-Med cuisine served alfresco at low cushioned benches, or Cypriot mezes at lamp-lit taverna tables on the seafront. Art exhibitions grace the open-plan lobby. Kick-back of an evening by the firepit alongside the lap pool. 5* service comes from 150 staff who seemed to be smiling permanently (and sincerely) during our stay. Bedrooms are sleek but understated, with a choice of couples' rooms and family suites in the main buildings, or more spacious Kyma Suites in a secluded wing. Stroll to the old harbour for cruises and amazing Roman mosaics, jog or cycle along a pedestrianised promenade to the Tomb of the Kings, or hire a car to explore turtle beaches, vineyards and cedar forests. Oh, and did we mention the sun shines here over 300 days per year? Highs There's a lovely vibe: staff really care, the chef chats to diners, waitresses remember preferences from one day to the next, and the gardener burns rosemary to keep insects away from your terrace We loved the Joëlle Pléot-designed bedrooms: clean white spaces with wooden accents, comfy beds and excellent showers We stayed in the Kyma Suites on our last visit, delightfully secluded, with semi-enclosed sea-view patios – you'd never guess you're in such a big hotel Our dinner at Notios was outstanding: tender sushi, fresh sea bream, crisp and exotic salads, delicate mango mousse... and Ouzeri's meze lunches were fun, too Paphos is home to Cyprus' biggest archaeological park and close to its best beaches; it has its own airport with excellent connections Lows The main building is big and blocky, with tall hotels on either side; rear-facing rooms can get noise from passing motorbikes at night (ask for a sea-facing if you're noise-sensitive) as you'd expect from being in an urban area The beach is very small and overlooked by passers-by (but the waters are calm – great for long swims) Paphos is a well developed resort town – karaoke bars and English pubs dot the old harbour – but you're 5 minutes' walk away on a relatively quiet patch of seafront The buffet meals in Mosaics Restaurant can be a bit hectic at busy times Twin beds are available on request but they may be two single mattresses on a double bedframe" - Michael Cullen
