Villa Agathe is located on the hills above Protaras with a panorama of sea views from its fabulous terrace and contemporary interiors. Protaras is a scenic resort town on Cyprus’s south-east coast. Offering the perfect blend of sandy beaches and pretty town centres, this tranquil location is perfect for exploring the calming atmosphere Cyprus is known for. A budding photographers dream, Protaras boasts elegant Venetian architecture and pretty pastel-coloured houses. You can wander the cobbled street for hours, window shopping and tasting local delicacies at the charming restaurants.
For those looking to explore the rugged coastline, head to Fig Tree Bay with its lone fig tree and stretch of sandy beach, just waiting for you to lay down a towel and relax. You can swim and snorkel in the calm, crystal-clear waters or take part in adrenaline-fuelled water sports like sea kayaking, parasailing and jet skiing. There’s also an island you can swim out to and a boardwalk you can walk along.
For a day trip away from the villa, the ghost town of Varosha is a great option. Abandoned buildings line the eerie streets, a unique place to visit only 40-minutes from the villa. Boat trips are also a popular option, with plenty of trips for all tastes! You could hop on a boat to the protected nature park area of Cape Greco, which offers superb snorkelling and scuba diving territory. On land, the nature park has pine-tree lined forest trails with spectacular nature, sea and cliff views and by sea, there are submerged caves, rock formations and canyons for beginner or pro scuba divers.
For families, the tranquil beaches of Ayia Napa are perfect, albeit a little further away from the property. With a waterpark for kids to enjoy and a nightlife that older guests will love, there is something for everyone. The town’s main landmark is the picturesque Venetian-era Ayia Napa Monastery, which stands in the central square and is surrounded by bars and clubs. You can soak in the holiday atmosphere in the colourful harbour with its bustling waterfront restaurants – the fresh seafood is a must-try!
The Region
Perched on Cyprus’s stunning southeastern coastline, Protaras is a Mediterranean jewel boasting sky-blue seas, sun-soaked beaches, and laid-back touches of traditional charm. What is more, Protaras’ serrated coastline of coves and promontories means there is no shortage of shallow, serene bays that are ideal for families, swimming, and watersports.
The famed Fig Tree Bay, with its shallow, protected water and golden sands is the most popular beach, and regularly listed among the best in Europe. Named after the lone fig tree set amidst its pristine sands, this quaint inlet is a picturesque retreat for sunbathers and snorkelers alike, but it’s also only the beginning of Protaras’ delightful qualities.
If you’re looking for a slightly quieter spot to sunbathe and dip your toes in the calm, Mediterranean waters, make your way south across the Fig Tree Peninsula to find a series of bays, including Green Bay which is a laid-back and excellent spot for snorkeling where you might even be lucky enough to see a sea turtle!
But snorkeling only scratches the surface of Protaras’ spectacular coastline, as it is a haven for scuba divers of all levels of experience. The region boasts a number of fantastic dive sights including the Green Bay Caves, the wrecks of the Liberty and the Nemesis, and the wonderful submerged gallery of statues which is close enough to shore to be accessible to divers and snorkelers alike. But if getting your feet wet isn’t your bag, not to fear, the coastline is equally wonderful to explore on a private boat tour. Tours explore highlights such as Cape Greco, Konnos Bay and the lovely Blue Lagoon.
Anyone looking to put their hiking boots to good use will revel in Protaras’s sublime selection of hiking options, from the rugged Cape Greco National Park to the unique Paralimni Lake – a natural saltwater wetland area swamped with migratory birds including herons, ducks, and even pink flamingoes. Cape Grego National Park is well known for its breathtaking landscapes and boasts several hiking trails. What is more, the Park offers a bevy of swimming spots so make sure to bring your bathers.
Far from limited to natural wonders, Protaras is also a culinary adventure. The town’s tavernas are brimming with grilled halloumi and souvlaki, and serve as the perfect spots to sit and relax as twilight turns to evening and the strum of bouzouki music serenades the streets and promenades. But don’t get too comfortable, because the night won’t end there. Protaras has a lively nightlife which centres on The Strip where numerous bars and clubs are open until late into the night, offering plenty of music and entertainment to keep the party going.
With its splendid assortment of natural wonders from serene bays to rugged landscapes, and no shortage of activities, attractions, and alluring culinary delights, Protaras is a picturesque location for a perfect vacation whether you’re a young family or a group of firm friends.
