A seaside resort just four hours away from the UK is so well-rated that even domestic travellers opt to holiday here instead of going elsewhere.
Protaras, on the eastern coast of Cyprus, is a town dedicated to tourists and is one of the lucky destinations to see warm weather nearly all year round, with the sun shining for over 300 days of the year. In April, temperatures average around 24C, making it a perfect escape for families as the mercury soars to around 35C in the peak of summer.
Its coastline is endorsed by long, sandy beaches which is its ultimate claim to fame - with its beaches dubbed the best Cyprus has to offer. It has a promenade that runs the entire length of the waterfront and travel guides suggest April as being the core month when such public areas start to reboot after winter, including the hire of water sports and the opening of more bars, restaurants and kiosks.
READ MORE:
With its waters being clear and calm, it is also a great spot for underwater activities such as snorkelling or scuba diving. According to Visit Protaras, there is a 50m plus visibility which makes it a must-do task on your holiday. By doing so, you won't just see an array of fish - there's more than one shipwreck to marvel with the Liberty and the Nemesis both purposely sunk for the purpose of diving. There are also a selection of enchanting caves to swim through.
As Protaras has more than one beach to its name, its no surprise that even the smallest nooks get packed with tourists from time to time. One reviewer raved about Green Bay Beach, saying: "A very, very nice beach. Small, tucked away, with clear transparent water. It is very suitable for children of all ages because it is sandy with a gradual entry into the water. Sometimes, on weekends and holidays, it is very crowded, which reduces the full enjoyment."
The promenade is also highly rated, with another reviewer adding: "Started the walk at Kalamies beach which is at the northern end of the path. Followed the well laid out decking and concrete path all the way to Protaras, about 40 minutes. The views out to sea and across the bays are beautiful. Plenty of shaded rest stops along the way. Easy access on and off the path if you want to go into any of the towns on the way."
Despite the promenade walk, there are also other walking trails in the area, including a cliff walk around Fig Tree Bay which is popular with many people and is accessible for those with mobility issues.
Getting there and accessibilityMost major UK airlines fly directly into Larnaca Airport (LCA) or Paphos Airport (PFO), but transfer times are not quick with a 48 minute taxi or hire car ride to the resort. A typical flight from a London airport to Larnaca takes approximately four hours and 40 minutes.