I visited the European country named the best place to live – with new 5* hotels, incredible beaches and blue lagoon
WITH its sunny climes and crystal-clear waters, it’s no surprise Paphos has been voted the most liveable small city in the world.
And after just a few days exploring the many incredible things that this city in Cyprus — the third biggest island in the Mediterranean — has to offer, I’m tempted to move here myself.
But in the meantime, a holiday will suffice.
Luckily, I couldn’t have picked a better place to stay than the Cali Resort and Spa, a 5H getaway just a few minutes’ walk from Coral Bay, one of the most popular beaches in the Paphos area.
Every bit as exclusive as it sounds, this gorgeous resort is an adults-only (16+) space, with facilities to match the grown-up feel.
These include a smart Japanese restaurant, zen-like spa and elegant rooms with calming and cool interiors.
The 47-metre turquoise pool, surrounded by comfy loungers, is ideal for an afternoon of sprawling, reading, rejuvenating and sipping cocktails, thanks to its tranquil atmosphere.
Delicious local seafood
Throw in delicious local seafood cooked at the hotel’s international restaurant, Aria, and excellent sushi at Asian-fusion restaurant Fiki, and it would be perfectly easy — and indeed acceptable — to while away an entire week without ever leaving the resort.
But it’s worth rousing yourself to experience what makes the city of Paphos so special.
Inhabited since Neolithic times, the region is split into two areas, known to locals as Old Paphos and New Paphos.
Aphrodite, the goddess of love, pleasure and beauty, was said to have been born here.
And you can visit her mythical birthplace — a formation of rocks called Petra tou Romiou, just off the coastline.
Legend has it that she rose from the waves before being carried on a shell to the sand. Her goddess bathroom — the stunning blue waters and natural grotto known as the Baths of Aphrodite — are well worth a day trip, too.
Shaded by a large fig tree and surrounded by lush greenery, this natural pool would certainly beat your average quick shower in the bathroom at home.
According to Greek mythology, Aphrodite met her lover Adonis at this spot after he stopped for a drink while out hunting.
DeHe fell in love with her the moment he drank from the water, which has to be the ultimate wash-and-go meet cute.
Sadly, there are no guarantees you will meet your own Greek god while visiting, but it’s still a breathtaking beauty spot.
And if you return with no new romance to celebrate, there are plenty of other ways to pursue pleasure in Paphos.
If you love diving, watersports or simply being out in the sea, then a trip to the Blue Lagoon is a must.
Only accessible by boat, this isolated, sheltered bay is not easy to get to, but it’s certainly well worth the effort.
You’ll be rewarded with a memorable and magical spot, with translucent waters for a paradise holiday dip like no other.
The Unesco World Heritage site of Kato Pafos really is a must-see.
Dulcie Pearce
I felt completely connected to the nature around me and it’s a great place to snorkel or dive if you enjoy getting up close to aquatic life.
Back on dry land there’s so much historical interest in the area that it’s impossible to cram it all into one Cypriot trip.
But the Unesco World Heritage site of Kato Pafos really is a must-see. The park includes sites and monuments from the 4th century BC to the Middle Ages.
Most remains date to the Roman period, including intricate mosaic floors of four Roman villas.
Look out for the almost pristine tiles depicting Theseus battling the Minotaur.
But it’s not all history — and five-star spa treatments.
In the pretty harbour, with boats bobbing gently on the water, you will find lovely cafes, bars and restaurants, ideal for lingering and people watching.
Meanwhile, up in Old Paphos, which sits high above the rest of the town, you can enjoy panoramic views as you sip a coffee or glass of wine.
There’s also an abundance of arts, crafts and artisan products, especially ceramics, which isn’t surprising given the region’s rich heritage.
Drop into cultural centre The Place and have a go at throwing down some vases, at regular pottery workshops.
Or just buy one made by a local expert from the Municipal Market in the Ktima region, where you’ll find everything from plates and local produce to handmade clothes and sandals for sale on the colourful stalls.
The perfect Paphos memento to take home — for those of us not lucky enough to live here.
GO: PAPHOS
GETTING/STAYING THERE: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 5H Cali Resort & Spa costs from £1,147pp, including flights from Gatwick on August 29. See easyjet.com/holidays.
The Plaza Premium Lounge at Gatwick North is available for £40.50pp on selected dates in September. See holidayextras.com or call 0800 316 5678.
MORE INFO: See www.caliresortandspa.com and visitcyprus.com.