Walks around Paralimni and the beaches of Protaras

‘Settlement by the lake’ — this is the translation from Greek of the name of the small town of Paralimni, which is situated in the south-east of Cyprus. The area got its name in ancient times, thanks to its location on the shore of a shallow lake that filled with water in winter.

It was here, during the Hellenistic period, that the ancient Cypriot city of Leukolla was situated, of which not a trace remains today. During the Byzantine period, Paralimni was a small settlement comprising a number of small farming hamlets. It offers a panoramic view of the sea, and its accessibility was most likely the reason for its subsequent destruction and devastation. In the 7th century, during the Arab raids, the local inhabitants were forced to relocate to areas that were not visible from the sea. One such place was the centre of today’s town, where Paralimni’s local council is situated.

Today, Paralimni is famous not only for its many small churches, rich history and agricultural land, but also for its wonderful beaches. The unbroken chain of beaches – the modern tourist area of Paralimni, known as Protaras – is renowned for its superb natural conditions for seaside holidays. During the summer, this Cypriot resort is bustling with life, but in winter, life there practically comes to a standstill. Nevertheless, this place has traditionally attracted those seeking a peaceful holiday and unique natural landmarks.

Which beach should you choose in Protaras?

Endless emerald-turquoise waves draw thousands of tourists from all over the world to Protaras every year. It would seem that the answer to the question of which beach to choose in Protaras is obvious. Each one boasts soft golden sand, plenty of bars and restaurants, and all manner of water sports. But we’d like to tell you more about the beaches of Protaras.

The beach at Vrissiana Beach

Both visitors to the island and locals will appreciate the wide sandy beach situated next to the Vrissiana Beach Hotel, which captivates its guests with its stunning turquoise waters. This spot is particularly popular with young people, who gather here not only to sunbathe, but also to have fun and ‘show off’. The bar at the Vrissiana Beach Hotel is a very popular spot for a good time during the holiday season. And the closer it gets to evening, the louder the music gets in the bar.

Sunrise Beach

Meanwhile, the neighbouring beach with the romantic name ‘Sunrise’ has become a favourite spot for family holidays. Couples and groups of friends alike come here simply to soak up the sun and splash about in the waves. There are several decent cafés and restaurants on the beach where you can take a break from the heat and have a refreshing drink between dips in the sea.

Flamingo Beach

You’ll recognise Flamingo Beach, next to the luxurious Constantinos the Great Hotel, by the windmill with a sign that’s visible from everywhere. It is from here that you can set off on a sea trip aboard a submarine called the ‘Dolphin’. During the trip, you may encounter the graceful inhabitants of the Mediterranean Sea – bottlenose dolphins, mushroom-shaped rocks, and perhaps even the clumsy monk seals, which can reach 3 metres in length and weigh up to 350 kg. These trips take place several times a day.

Sirena Bay Beach

You’ll no doubt want to linger a while at a spot called Sirena Bay. It’s a garden featuring statues of Neptune and mermaids, who seem to be peering out at guests from behind the lush vegetation of this little corner of paradise. The garden is situated right on the beach. For over 20 years, the owner has been hosting private evening gatherings and a variety of events here, and has finally decided to set up a restaurant and bar with a simple yet tastefully chosen interior. You’ll recognise the place by its signature blue chairs.

When visiting ‘U Siren’, you can not only sunbathe and go for a swim, but also sample the most tender octopus, washed down with an incomparable watermelon daiquiri. It’s best to visit on weekdays, as the place is popular with locals and can get quite crowded at the weekend.

Green Bay Beach and Fig Tree Bay

For those who prefer small coves and a peaceful atmosphere, head to the sandy Green Bay beach near the Cavo Maris Hotel. And for those who prefer a comfortable beach holiday, head to Fig Tree Bay (one of Protaras’s most famous spots), situated near the Capo Bay Hotel. The bay has earned its well-deserved reputation thanks to its unique coastline with picturesque golden-brown cliffs, azure waters, a string of islets, and a host of decent little restaurants.

Konnos Beach

If we head from Cape Greco following the sign for Ayioi Anargyroi, we’ll find ourselves at the Kamara Toy Karaka Natural Bridge (which means ‘Crow’s Bridge’). This is an amazing natural formation of cracked coastal cliffs and a wonderful spot for photo shoots. Not far from here lies the light-sand beach of Konnos. It can be accessed from the Grecian Park Hotel and the Alion. This small beach is one of the most picturesque in Cyprus. Another great thing about it is that it’s well sheltered from the wind.

It’s on this very beach that you’ll find the famous yellow ‘banana peel’ sun loungers, which float beautifully on the water. Just imagine how lovely it would be not just to lie on the beach, but to float on a comfortable ‘little boat’ across the clear waves.

If you’ve got the energy, you can paddle out on one of these loungers to the Cyclops’ Cave, situated 2 km from Konnos. Perhaps this is the very same Cyclops’ Cave mentioned by Homer in his epic poem *The Odyssey*.

You can also reach the cave on foot. The path winds its way up a steep slope above the sea, amongst stones, bushes and rocks, where grey-coloured lizards – known locally as ‘kurkutas’ – come out to bask in the summer sun. The further you walk along the path, the less greenery you’ll see. Soon you’ll find yourself on a flat rocky plateau that drops away into the sea. Outside, the entrance to the cave is marked by a brown signpost, whilst inside, a mysterious darkness reigns; peering into it, you may just unravel some of the mysteries of the past.

So, which of Protaras’s beaches should you choose for your holiday? The bustling Vrissiana, the luxurious Flamingo, the family-friendly Sun Rise, the secluded Golden Sand or the comfortable Fig Bay Tree? One thing is certain: each one will offer you plenty of enjoyment as you swim in the emerald waters and relax on the sandy shore.