The south-eastern corner of Cyprus has a bit of everything – the beautiful forests of the Cape Greco National Park, the sunny beaches of Protaras, and the full-on nightlife of Ayia Napa. Add in some good family attractions along the way and the scenic stretch of coast snaking east of Larnaca has something for all tastes.
Protaras may not be as famous as its hedonistic neighbour, but what it lacks in nightlife it more than makes up for with its stunning beaches and easy-going character. This visitor-friendly resort still gets plenty of visitors, many of them drawn in by the likes of beautiful Fig Tree Bay, the town’s best-known beach. A lovely spot for swimming, sunbathing or water-sports, this Blue Flag beach gets busy, so it’s worth knowing about a few of the lesser-known beaches in the area.
Agia Triada is very pleasant golden beach located beside a small fishing harbour, where you can hop on a sun lounger and chill out all day. Quiet spots like Skoutari, Nisia and Pernera will also get you away from the crowds, while Green Bay is a good choice for those learning to dive. There are many more besides – in fact, you may not have time to try them all.
When you’re not on the beach, you’ll find a wide range of restaurants in Protaras, demonstrating the Cypriot love of good food in some style. Many make the most of their enviable locations, with cool beachfront terraces providing the ideal setting for meze and cocktails.
There is a bit of nightlife in Protaras, mainly catering to tourists, but it’s not on the level of Ayia Napa where the more hardcore clubbers can be found. During the day, Ayia Napa has plenty to amuse the whole family, including a water park and adventures like dolphin-spotting boat safaris and open-top bus tours. Later, the foam parties, bar crawls and through-the-night clubbing begin – most clubs not kicking things off until around 1 am.
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.
