Cyprus is one of those intriguing destinations that evokes curiosity whenever I mention my visit there. Its identity is not quite like any on the European mainland, nor is it Middle Eastern. I’ve compared it to the red-soiled terrain of Morocco, found lots of similarities to Malta, and, of course, the DNA of Greece is everywhere in Cyprus. The island sits in the Mediterranean just south of Türkiye, and neighbors the Levant. Indeed, the 3,500-square-foot island is a unique entity with an enduring culture that celebrates its heritage and its great resilience. Its people share a deep pride in the island’s dynamic landscape, notably all things nautical. And Cypriots revel in robust daily traditions focused on food, festivity, and community, while extending the kind of warm, generous hospitality that welcomed me each day.
I made my way around the island’s striking coastline and dove into Aphrodite’s baths. I trekked high into mountain villages and browsed as shopkeepers started their day. I went underground in the tombs of kings, immersing myself in the living museum of the island’s archeological wonders. And I was also fortunate enough to find the treasure that is The AMARA Hotel, a five-star luxury beachfront resort and spa, and a gem of Cyprus’ own Stademos Hotels, Ltd.
A Piece of the Horizon
In a world where guest service standards have at times become virtually forgotten, The Amara Hotel in the vibrant coastal city of Limassol has given me hope with its genial staff and polished, high-end hospitality. That’s essential, and people notice. I was not simply made to feel like a valued guest at The Amara, but made to feel valued and at home instantly.
No sooner had I hung my coat on the softly lit rod in the creamy oak double wardrobe than the butler arrived, wheeling in libations from the vineyards of nearby Tróodos Mountains. All of the above, thank you. From the lofty private balcony of my deluxe suite, I soaked up the views of the Mediterranean stretching into the horizon. This panorama is a signature element of The Amara, featured in every one of its 207 rooms and suites. Elegant Mediterranean cultural influences were reflected in the room’s clean design, from floor to ceiling. In the morning, abundant sunshine enhanced the splashes of muted blues, sandy tones, and Cypriot limestone touches from the sofas into the en suite. The horizon itself remained a cohesive focus from the palatial lobby and throughout the property’s design, in a thoughtful collaboration between SB Architects, Rockwell Studio, and WA Interiors.
My spacious, well-equipped room was like a private sanctuary with soundproofing and ample comforts. Customizable atmospheric lighting, which I always appreciate, was provided at bedside along with fully automated curtain controls. Full climate personalization, including radiant floors in the oversized white marble en suite, was among the many modern, smart amenities. Bottled water, refreshments, etc., were replenished daily while a vast array of services were available at the touch of a button.
Imbibe & Dine
Waiting on friends to arrive, I lingered on the mezzanine, keeping company with a cocktail and the moonlight. I couldn’t help but admire the stylish, diverse, jet-set clientele in Amara’s plush, luxurious atmosphere. The Mediterranean sea air mingled with the mouth-watering fragrance wafting from Michelin-star chef Giorgio Locatelli’s own Ristarante Locatelli in the dining room, beyond the glass walk-in wine cellar.
The night before, we sat poolside by the lanai and ambient water features on the sea-level terrace, sipping Japanese whiskey and watching the teppanyaki entertainment inside. This delicious, elegant dining option is Matsuhisa, run by legendary world-renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa. The hotel’s seafood-centric Nerea and Beefbar were bustling in the glow of a nearby veranda. I browsed Amara’s shops and art galleries before turning in.
AMARA’s spacious indoor and outdoor breakfast dining areas were serving up beachfront in an idyllic way to start the day. An elaborate feast complete with freshly baked treats, beverages & coffees, and live cooking stations tempted me with high-quality “à la minute” options.
But first: Spa time.
Spatime
The tranquility of an early morning lap swim with spa time is an inimitable way to start the day… and finish it. The Amara’s spa offers a genuine immersion into wellness. A separate hi-tech gym area, access to the outdoor infinity and salt pools with cabanas, and the beach itself complete the sprawling wellness center. The 32,000-square-foot facility also incorporates preserved sections of the city’s ancient walls.
Traditional Finnish saunas and steam rooms, ice bucket plunges, and loungers encourage meditative relaxation and detox. A full menu of holistic therapeutic services incorporates native Cypriot ingredients such as organic olive oil, crushed carob, and warmed citrus fruit in its skincare offerings. Massages with infused oils also carry the essence of the island with rosemary and lemon. A juice and tea bar is available, too. The spa’s Blow Resort, located on spa level, offered all the zhuzhing needed to round out a day of pampering. Advance appointments are highly recommended.
A Dose of Culture
No trip to Cyprus is complete without going on a hands-on exploration of the birthplace of Aphrodite. The 24/7 concierge at The Amara can arrange excursions and tours throughout Cyprus, but there are many sites nearby accessible via car service. Minutes away is the Archaeological Site of Amathous. Perched 250 feet above sea level, the ruins of a Roman temple dedicated to Aphrodite beckoned the imagination while meandering through the ancient city’s Doric columns, public baths, and nymphaeum.
The glow of the amphitheater at the Kourion Archaeological Site beside the grassy cliffs along the sea in southern Limassol was a gift of spontaneous beauty. I hopped from the top row down to center stage and looked back to take in this gorgeous amphitheater of the old Acropolis. It’s a stunning spectacle right there on the edge of the Mediterranean, looking out into the infinite horizon.
Located between the cities of Larnaca and Limassol, in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains, I wove through the cobblestone streets of Lefkara Village as the local shopkeepers opened their colorful doors. The exquisite handmade lace embroidery found here is called lefkaritika. It is an intricate textile art recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Bike rentals available along Limassol’s coastal Molos Promenade offered a refreshing activity with great views along the path before savoring traditional Cypriot dishes at the sun-soaked marina by the historical center.
