Tell us about the resort – what makes Aphrodite Hills so special?
Aphrodite Hills Golf and Spa Resort is a luxury 5-star resort nestled in the hills above Paphos and overlooking the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty. Aphrodite Hills also proudly boasts the best golf course in Cyprus, making it the perfect destination for a golf break.
Tell us about the resort – what makes Aphrodite Hills so special?
Joanna at Aphrodite Hills, Cyprus
Aphrodite Hills Golf and Spa Resort is a luxury 5-star resort nestled in the hills above Paphos and overlooking the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty. Aphrodite Hills also proudly boasts the best golf course in Cyprus, making it the perfect destination for a golf break.
Located in the far south of the Mediterranean, the island of Cyprus is renowned for its blue skies, azure waters and 340 days of sunshine a year, making it an ideal holiday destination for some winter sun without the long-haul travel.
Getting There
Take in breath-taking surroundings
Only a 4-hour flight from the UK, Aphrodite Hills is located a mere 15-minute drive away from Paphos airport, and only 70 minutes from Larnaca International airport, making it easily accessible from most airports within the UK. Paphos town centre is a 20-minute drive away, which is easily accessible by shuttle from the resort. During low season the shuttle runs twice a week and during high season the shuttle runs daily.
The Hotel and Accommodation
Relax in this idyllic beachfront location
Upon my arrival I was greeted with a drink and a hot towel; I knew I was going to be well looked after. I was then shown to my room by a friendly and welcoming member of staff.
All 290 rooms are stylishly decorated with a fusion of contemporary designs and Cypriot décor, equipped with a large flatscreen TV with international channels, Bluetooth speakers and luxurious toiletries. Each room leads onto a private balcony or terrace, and has pool, garden or golf and sea views.
I stayed in the Junior Suite with golf and sea views, which I highly recommend. It had a separate living area and a spacious bathroom with a bathtub and a walk-in monsoon shower. French doors opened out onto a terrace area with table and chairs, allowing me to wake up to the panoramic views of the crystal blue sea and green golf course. I was also pleasantly surprised to find European and UK plug sockets in the rooms, which was helpful as I had forgotten my adaptor!
Within the resort you can find the village square which offers a supermarket, medical centre and car rental office, as well as a Costa Coffee for those still wanting that familiar home comfort. There is also an eclectic and diverse range of dining options. There are 5 pools to enjoy on the resort including adults only, children’s pool and an infinity pool within the spa, meaning that there will be always be plenty of sunbeds available.
The Spa
Refresh and rejuvenate with a wide range of spa treatments at your disposal
Home to the award-winning Retreat Spa, with 27 treatment rooms set over 2 floors, there is a seemingly endless number of treatments to choose from and experience.
Upon entering the Retreat Spa, the peaceful and serene setting sets the tone for the ultimate spa holiday experience. I arrived a couple of hours before my scheduled spa treatment, which the hotel receptionist had advised me to do. After changing into my comfy robe and slippers, I went to explore the facilities which included a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and multiple relaxation areas.
Before I knew it, it was time for my treatment, so I strolled back to relaxation area and helped myself to a complimentary herbal tea while I waited to be greeted for my therapeutic massage which was every bit as therapeutic and relaxing as it sounds. I reluctantly ended my spa experience watching the sun set by the outdoor infinity pool with a healthy smoothie from the Juice Bar.
The Fitness
Enjoy a range of sports activities including tennis, swimming and golf
As far as sports goes, Aphrodite Hills is makes a great option for a fitness holiday. The resort really does have everything, with a horse riding club, football academy, two well-equipped gyms and a tennis academy. The tennis academy has 8 floodlit courts - 4 world class red clay courts and 4 green set hard courts.
During the low season (November to March) there is one fitness class a day, including Zumba, which takes place in the fitness studio at the Retreat Spa. During the mid and high season (April to October) there are more activities on offer throughout the day, from aqua aerobics, Pilates, and candlelit yoga to archery and football.
One of the biggest draws of Aphrodite Hills is the 18-hole championship golf course, which was awarded the PGA National status in September 2017. Having recently invested 2.5 million euros into modernising and upgrading the largest golf resort in Cyprus, well known for its tiered greens and tricky pot bunkers, I was fortunate enough to get a first look at the newly refurbished European Golf Course Resort of the Year 2018.
If you’re a bit rusty on your golf game then lessons are available, however if you prefer to practice without help from the pros you can spend an afternoon perfecting your golf on the ambitious golf course. I booked a lesson with award-winning professional golfer Scott Beavan on the 350m double-ended driving range. He was knowledgeable and attentive, and I felt much more confident about my swing after my 45 minute lesson.
The Wellness Programmes
Sunsets in Cyprus are postcard worthy!
We offer a great range of tailor-made health and fitness programmes at Aphrodite Hills to include:
Choose from a wide range of stunning restaurants to satiate your taste buds
The restaurants are open on a seasonal basis and as I visited in low season, breakfast was served in the Fig and Olive restaurant. There was a great choice of hot and cold dishes from the breakfast buffet with English and Cypriot delicacies. From fresh fruit to pancakes, and many varieties of yoghurt, not to mention the friendly omelette chef, I was truly spoilt for choice.
In the evening, I sampled dinner in Fig and Olive, which offered an a La Carte menu. There was a different themed menu each day and after ordering my main course with the attentive waiter, I went to explore the buffet of starters. These included a range of delicious salads and typically Cypriot dips and cheese. I was also sure to leave some space to try a sample of the buffet of desserts and fresh fruit on offer.
Within the Village Square there is also a Costa Coffee, Haagen Daaz café, on site Supermarket and Anoi Pub, which offers spectacular views on the terrace. There is also the option to sample the Vitality menu at the Juice Bar in The Retreat Spa which offers a wide selection of tasty light meals and delicious low-calorie desserts.
The Staff
Experience excellent service and a warming welcome
Cypriots are known as friendly and hospitable, traits which were clearly noticeable with all the approachable staff at Aphrodite Hills. I was greeted with a cheerful smile every morning by the staff and nothing was ever too much trouble.
The Scenery and Surroundings
Take a swing on this beautiful 18-hole golf course
Due to the secluded location and although there is a lot to do within the resort, I would recommend hiring a car, which the onsite car rental office can help with, to explore the local sights such as Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodites Rock) or Kolossi Castle.
Highlights
The Retreat Spa
The 18-hole Championship Golf Course
The Tennis Academy
My Summary and Verdict
With something for everyone, Aphrodite Hills is the perfect active getaway for those wanting to just relax as well as sports enthusiasts looking to improve their swing or backhand on a tennis holiday.
I visited in the low season (November to March) and found it’s more suitable for couples and families during this time as not all facilities and restaurants are available.
During the mid and high season, with numerous facilities for children and adult-only areas for those needing some time away, there is an endless supply of activities and entertainment for everyone, making it the ideal location for single travellers, couples, groups and families.
You can also talk to one of our Travel Specialists on 0203 397 8891 or contact ushereto discuss tailor-making your perfect healthy holiday
Fact Box
Best time of the year to go: The best time to head to Cyprus is May to September.
Months to book in advance for: July, August and during school holidays. No. of Rooms: 290 Check-in/check-out: 2pm / 12 noon Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi in rooms and public hotel areas. Children: Yes Reception/Room Service: 24 hour reception and room service is available Alcohol: Yes Nearest Airport: Paphos airport
