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Protaras Holidays

General Description

Ayia Napa's quieter neighbour, Protaras is an unremarkable, modern resort with no traditional village centre, which grew quickly from virtually nothing in the late 1970s and now stretches along the coast for over 4 mls upto the UN patrolled green line. Hotels are dotted all along its length with concentrations at 4 points: starting at scenic Cape Greco, leading to Protaras centre, further east to the smaller resort of Pernera, and most recent addition Kapparis further east again. It’s important to note that these areas do not run into each other, undeveloped areas separate them. The main theme of the region are the agriculturally rich red soil villages and windmills dotting the landscape. The main town of Paralimni is situated 4 mls inland, primarily residential with a handful of shops. Protaras itself is rather lacking in genuine Cypriot character, its great attraction being its coastline of fine, white sand beaches and natural rocky coves.

Market/Suitability

Mainly middlemarket families and couples seeking a reasonable choice of entertainment and shopping but not the boisterous youth-orientated nightlife of Ayia Napa. Most hotels close in winter, leaving just a few to cater for more mature guests and those wanting a really quiet time; most local restaurants and shops also close during this time.

Beaches

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 suitable for children. Some rocky coves. During high season, plenty of sunbeds and parasols for hire; during winter months, beaches can look a bit unkempt.

Shopping

Plenty of shops, though dominated by supermarkets large and small. More typical local shops and minimarkets at Paralimni.

Entertainment

Daytime: water sports at all beaches, including windsurfing, water-skiing, parasailing, diving, snorkelling, jet-skiing and pedalloes; cycling; water park (larger option in Ayia Napa). Flower festival in May. Boat trips.
Nightlife: choice of bars (including live music and karaoke), tavernas with live music (often bouzouki) and a few discos; light and water show. Wider range in Ayia Napa for those who want to party through the night.

Eating Out

Large selection of tavernas and restaurants offering a range of fast food, local and international cuisines.

Accommodation

Over 100 tourist hotels and apartments, mainly in the middle to upper categories.

Local Excursions

Half day: village of Dherinia for views across the Green Line border towards the ghost city of Varosha, the former hotel district of Famagusta. Full day: hiking around Cape Greco (area of natural beauty with secluded beaches and coves); Larnaca; Ayia Napa for alternative beach or lively nightlife; Nicosia; tours of Troodos Mountains. All tour operators arrange their own excursions, covering other parts of Cyprus.

Public Transport

Local regular bus service to Ayia Napa, Larnaca and Paralimni. Taxis.

Location

Location: On the E coast, 10 mls NE of Ayia Napa and 6 mls SE of Paralimni. 35 mls NE of Larnaca and its international airport.
Position: A long, narrow strip development between the coast road and the sea. Generally flat terrain backed by fertile agricultural land characterised by the area's distinctive red soil.
Dialling Code: 23
Tourist Board: www.visitcyprus.com