October / 15th / 2018
If you’ve visited Cyprus in the summer, it may be hard to imagine days when the air is refreshing and the long-sleeves come out of the wardrobe. Here at Kanika Hotels & Resorts, the fun doesn’t end no matter when you choose to visit the sun-kissed island. And if you’re after a winter break under blue skies, we’ve got news for you: there are heaps of activities to enjoy when it’s drizzly and grey in the rest of Europe!
1. Adventures in the snow
While temperatures by the coast are usually quite moderate throughout the winter in Cyprus, things change rather dramatically when you reach the high peaks of the Troodos Mountains, rising almost 2000 metres above sea level. And come December, the mountain slopes are often blanketed in snow, with dense pine trees covered in brilliant wine, twinkling under the sun’s rays. Many travellers have little idea that Troodos is a paradise for avid skiers and snowboarders – make your way to Troodos Ski Resort on Mount Olympus and you’ll witness people of all ages having a blast in the snow as they unleash their energy.
2. Winter birdwatching
With Cyprus situated on one of the major migration routes across the Mediterranean, it’s a stop off point for many bird species which travel between breeding grounds in Europe and Asia in the autumn/winter months. One of the most famous sites to take in the splendour in the winter months is the Larnaca Salt Lake; home to thousands of graceful pink flamingos between November and March. But it’s not just flamingos that gravitate towards the island in the cooler months. If you look up at the skies near the coast, you may be lucky enough to sight Griffon Vultures, Scopoli’s and Yelkouan Shearwater. Wallcreepers can also be spotted on cliffs or gorges, and duck numbers increase by the island’s lakes.
3. Sightseeing splendours
Put those wide-brimmed hats aside – the winter months in Cyprus give you the chance to explore some of the island’s most revered sights, sans the intense glare of the spring or summer sun. Get to grips with UNESCO heritage around the island, become better acquainted with the myths and legends surrounding Aphrodite in Kouklia, take in the remains of one of the oldest civilizations in the world in Choirokoitia, and rent out a car or take a bus into the island’s capital to catch a glimpse of the grandiose Venetian walls surrounding the buzzing old town!
4. An alternative Christmas
Ever experienced Christmas by the sea? Now’s your chance to dig into that Turkey by the glistening Med! Temperatures by the Cyprus coast in December usually waver between 18 °C to 22 °C; just perfect for a refreshing walk by the sea before tucking into a sumptuous festive lunch. At Kanika Hotels & Resorts, we go all out to make Christmas special, with sumptuous buffets and festive events. And if you want to venture away from the hotel grounds, all seaside towns host Christmas festivals, markets and events to keep the kids entertained. Streetside stalls dishing up divine roast chestnuts are also common, while plenty of vendors serve mulled wine just about everywhere you visit.
5. A lush green natural world
While green hills and valleys may not be the first thing that spring to mind when you think about Cyprus, the winter months paint a rather different picture, with just about every inch of the countryside covered in vibrant green. The perfect occasion to get those hiking boots on, now’s your chance to really explore a different side to the island. In fact, winter is the main flowering time for many annuals, and countless areas are covered in orchids, anemones, cyclamen and more. And there are plenty of nature trails to take in the splendour, mapped out by the Cyprus Tourism Organisation. Find out more here.
You can book your winter break in Cyprus at Alexander the Great Beach Hotel, Olympic Lagoon Resort and Amavi (opening February 2019) in Paphos, as well as the Elias Beach Hotel Limassol. For more information visit Kanika Hotels & Resorts.
A five-star, couples-only retreat on a romantic beachfront, offering stunning sea and sunset views, ideal for a romantic and relaxing getaway.
A luxurious, couples-only escape, blending upscale elegance with relaxed seaside charm, and offering tailored services and unique experiences for couples.
Discover the ultimate all-inclusive five-star Olympic Lagoon Resorts, Ayia Napa, renowned for its lush gardens, Blue Flag beach, bespoke entertainment, and top-tier luxury services.
Experience luxury and endless leisure at our all-inclusive Olympic Lagoon Resorts Paphos, on a prime Blue Flag beach. With personalised services, and daily signature entertainment for couples and families.
Overlooking a Blue Flag beach and Paphos harbour, Alexander the Great, offers luxury accommodations steps from the shore, with excellent leisure facilities, and exceptional dining.
