Villa Sielis is only a few minutes’ walk from the beach and the east-coast town of Protaras. The area isn’t just known for its beautiful sandy swimming beaches but has impressive tree-lined mountain ranges too. Jump on a boat from the harbour to the famous Cape Greco National Park nearby. Walk or cycle through the tree-lined trails there and enjoy the stunning sea and costal cliff views. Look out for the classic whitewashed chapel, lighthouse and ruins of an ancient temple devoted to Aphrodite.
At the Eastern edge of Cape Greco National Park is Konnos Bay, a breathtakingly beautiful beach with fringed by pine trees. With its underwater sea caves and crystal clear waters too, the national park also a hot spot for swimmers, snorkellers and scuba divers. For more days spent on the coast, Fig Tree Bay with its beautiful lone fig tree is a popular choice. There you can swim or snorkel in the calm waters or take part in action-packed water sports like parasailing or jet skiing. There’s also an island you can swim out to and a boardwalk you can walk along. Break up the afternoon and head to Protaras centre where you can wander the cobbled streets – browsing locally-crafted souvenirs or fresh produce – or sip iced coffee in one of the cafes and watch the world go by.
Looking for lively nightlife? Nearby Ayia Napa is your go to. The town is a short drive from Protaras and boasts a lively strip with bars and clubs. The resort town is also popular for its water park, Venetian-era Monastery, which stands in the central square and Ayia Napa Harbour.
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.
