Chances are, you probably booked a holiday in Paphos to spend hours on the beach and around the pool, swimming and soaking up the sun, before ending the day watching a magical sunset with a cool drink in hand. And yes, you won’t be disappointed – these treats are guaranteed.
But travel trends are now confirming what many of us have long believed: most holidaymakers want to relax, but at the same time, look forward to exploring new places of interest, whether they are natural gems, historical treasures, or gastronomic delights. While the combination of sun and sea will always be a magnet, visitors are increasingly interested in what is known as ‘experience holidays’.
What are the highlights in Paphos and its surroundings?
Given that the town of Paphos as a whole is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, you can expect to come across world-famous archaeological sites in several locations. As the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty, references to mythology are also not lacking. The nature reserve of the Akamas peninsula and the beautiful sands that highlight the coast will undoubtedly top every nature lover’s must-see list.
During your stay at Alexander the Beach Hotel in Paphos, a visit to the region’s landmarks below will enrich your break by creating wonderful memories and adding unique pictures to your photo albums! Discover Paphos:
A journey through time, with magnificent remains from prehistoric times, the Middle Ages, and the Roman period. Mention the park to anyone who has been there, and they will respond with enthusiasm, as they describe the remarkably well preserved and stunning mosaics depicting scenes from Greek mythology. The ancient Tombs of the Kings are an equally impressive marker in the area.
It’s a landmark that is synonymous with Paphos, located on the water’s edge on one end of the picturesque Paphos promenade. Originally built as a Byzantine fort, it was repeatedly dismantled and rebuilt by the Lusignans, the Venetians, and the Ottomans to serve different purposes. Today, with all the history associated with it, this iconic monument is the backdrop of the annual outdoor Paphos Opera.
Commanding one of the most beautiful spots in Paphos, Alexander the Great Beach Hotel overlooks the town’s scenic harbour and Medieval Castle.
Easily the most popular beach in the area, Coral Bay is a family-friendly 600m-long beach about 11km north of the town of Paphos. This beauty spot regularly earns its Blue Flag certification and attracts holidaymakers and permanent residents from near and far, thanks to the smooth and sugary sands along clear waters. Limestone headlands and sea caves mark the north and south of this crescent-shaped beach.
*For more information on boat trips, please consult with Hotel’s Guest Services.
Discover Paphos: travel along the coastal road from Paphos northwards towards Peyia, and after about 18km you will spot this small island rising from the sea. Once a pilgrims’ destination but not inhabited since the 15th century, excavations in the 1980s revealed Chalcolithic, Hellenistic, and Byzantine remains.
Just outside Paphos town, about 16km to the east, the village of Kouklia is closely linked to the archaeological site of Palaipafos (‘old Paphos’), the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite. Here you will find the remains of the Sanctuary of Aphrodite, which date back to the 12th century BC. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it served as a place of worship for hundreds of years, until the 3rd of 4th century AD.
These are just a few of the highlights of Paphos. Visit one, and you will be inspired to discover the Paphos region, its charm, and mystery, delve into our island’s rich history before returning back to the Alexander the Great Beach Hotel for all the contemporary comforts of superior modern-day hospitality.