Protaras Travel Guide: Travel and tourist information, things to do and see in Protaras

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Overview

Things to do

Suitability

Country Info (Cyprus)

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This resort is Ayia Napa's quieter neighbour, Protaras is an unremarkable, modern resort which grew quickly from virtually nothing in the late 1970s and now stretches along the coast for over 4 miles. The resort itself is rather lacking in genuine Cypriot character, its great attraction being its coastline of fine, white sand beaches and natural rocky coves.

This resort suits mainly middlemarket families and couples wanting a reasonable choice of entertainment and shopping but not the boisterous nightlife or youth-market appeal of Ayia Napa.

Most hotels close in winter, leaving just a few to cater for mature guests and those wanting a really quiet time; most local restaurants and shops also close during this time.

Ther are over 60 tourist hotels and apartments, mainly in the middle to upper categories.

Locality:

Protaras is on the east coast of Cyprus, (10 mls NE of Ayia Napa, 8 mls SE of Paralimni, 35 mls NE of Larnaca and its international airport). It is situated on a long, narrow strip development between the coast road and the sea. Generally flat terrain backed by fertile agricultural land characterised by the red soil typical of the area.

This resort suits mainly middlemarket families and couples wanting a reasonable choice of entertainment and shopping but not the boisterous nightlife or youth-market appeal of Ayia Napa.

There are fine beaches of white sand and crystal-clear water with shingle and flat rocks at the water's edge in some places. Shelves gently so it is good for children. There are some rocky coves. During high season, there are plenty of sunbeds and parasols for hire; during winter months, beaches can look a bit unkempt.

There are plenty of shops, but of limited variety. More typical local shops and supermarkets at Paralimni. For serious shopping, Ayia Napa is a better bet.

During the daytime activities include water sports at all of the beaches including windsurfing, water-skiing, parasailing, diving, snorkelling, jet-skiing and pedalloes. Other activities include cycling, the water park (larger option in Ayia Napa), an a Flower festival in May.

The nightlife offers a choice of bars (including live music and karaoke), tavernas with live music (often bouzouki) and a few discos. There is also a light and water show. There is a wider range in Ayia Napa for those who want to party through the night.

There is a large selection of tavernas and restaurants for all tastes, offering fast food (including a prominent McDonald's and fish and chip options), plus local and international cuisines.

Excursions include two and three day crusises to Egypt and/or Israel (The Holyland).

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Population: 780.100
Languages: Greek, Turkish (both official); English
Currency:
Local Times:
Cyprus - Nicosia

Country Dialling Code: +357
Voltage: 240V 50Hz
Electrical plugs:
2 Parallel circular prongs

Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean (after Sicily and Sardinia), and lies at its north-eastern end, closer to the Middle East and North Africa than it is to Europe. If you could sneak your way past the Green Line, Cyprus would be two countries for the price of one. Unfortunately, this really is a country divided - since 1974, visitors have had to choose between the Turkish experience of the north and the Greek experience of the south.

Politics aside, the landmass of Cyprus is home to great beaches and popular holiday resorts. It is also full of relics and ruins of ancient history, from the beehive style huts of primitive man to some classical Greek and Roman ruins.

The country capital, Nicosia, is the dividing point of the north from the south (and vice versa). The line, enforced by the United Nations is a peacekeeping buffer. Despite the obvious tourist problems associated with this location, Nicosia itself, has not dampened the appeal of Cyprus as a holiday mecca.

Cyprus has wide appeal as a holiday destination. The weather is sunny and dry for the majority of the year and the beaches washed by the turquoise waters befit the modern luxury hotels in the coastal resort towns. There are also historic restored city precincts, tavernas and the nightlife (depending on where you stay) can be amongst the liveliest in all of Europe. Cyprus also holds an appeal due to its remote picturesque monasteries and mountain villages, quaint churches, Crusader castles and intriguing museums. All of this added to the legend of Aphrodite (the Greek goddess of love who rose from the sea here) means that Cyprus is also a popular honeymoon destination.

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Protaras Travel Guide

Protaras Suitability Profile