Seasons in the sun
YOU could be sitting now in the warmth of an outdoor café in the pretty, historic harbour town of Kyrenia, or lazing on one of the miles of golden beach that drift for miles in each direction. The mellow Mediterranean getaway of North Cyprus is one of the first places in Europe to swing into action each year – and one of the last to still offer the delights of a beach holiday, with temperatures holding up well into November.
The island nation has a balmy, relaxed air that befi ts its location, tucked away to the south of Turkey.
It has largely escaped the commercialisation of much of the Med but still offers top- quality accommodation, from major resort hotels to quaint traditional spots, at a superb price. Cyprus Paradise, the UK’s leading operator to the country, has been bringing people here for almost 25 years – and a week’s holiday starts at an incredible £ 229. And that includes scheduled fl ights with 20kg luggage allowance, transfers and a local rep. It’s a euro- free zone, using Turkish currency, so meals and drinks are a bargain.
And North Cyprus has it all. From major holiday towns such as Famagusta to picturesque Kyrenia with its Venetian- era castle and craggy mountain backdrop. From the rugged interior ( perfect for exploring in a bargain- priced hire car) to the vast array of familyfriendly beaches and there are places to stay in a variety of styles offering all manner of options.
The Acapulco Hotel is on one of the longest, safest beaches and just outside Kyrenia. Perfect for families, it has an aqua park, pools, children’s clubs, funfair and playground as well as the smart Ocean Spa and Wellness Centre. There are rooms and suites in the main hotel as well as bungalows amid lush grounds. Seven nights half- board start at £ 339pp.
The Arkin Palm Beach, handy for the shops and bars of Famagusta, combines traditional architecture, with its turquoise colours and
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modern- day touches such as huge windows overlooking the private beach and outdoor pool. Seven nights half- board starts at £ 499pp.
The Pia Bella hotel is excellent if you fancy being among the history of Kyrenia. It is set in mature gardens with two swimming pools yet is only a stroll from the attractions of the town and its colourful waterfront. From £ 259pp for seven nights half- board.
Different again is the Riverside Garden Resort, on the slopes of the Kyrenia mountain range, its villas spread over eight acres of gardens.
There are fabulous views and the beach, a mile away, is reached by free shuttle which also goes to Kyrenia. Seven nights half- board starts from an amazing £ 229pp.
The sun shines from spring right through until just before Christmas – now’s the time to treat yourself to an early present with the extraordinary prices on offer. INFORMATION: Cyprus Paradise ( 020 3150 0330/ cyprusparadise.com)