The holiday resort of Protaras on the south east coast of Cyprus has all the trappings of the larger, more frenetic Ayia Napa that is a few minutes drive away, but it is far more family friendly and boasts the best beach on the island, the fabulous Fig Tree Bay. Just adjacent to the village of Paralimni, Protaras consists mainly of a grid of restaurants, nightclubs and shops surrounded by numerous hotels and holiday apartment blocks. It has a magnificent golden Blue Flag beach, which stretches for 10 miles (16km), shelving gently into the crystal clear Mediterranean, and further up and down the coast a choice of secluded coves and inlets for those wanting more privacy.
The shops in Protaras centre provide everything required by holidaymakers, from beach paraphernalia to souvenirs. There are also supermarkets, clothing stores and jewellers. Serious bargain hunters are well advised to take a bus or taxi to nearby Agia Napa where there is a plethora of stores selling tax free designer goods. Local jewellery and leather goods are also good buys.
The main beach at Protaras offers a vast range of water sports opportunities and equipment hire, from paddle boats to jet skis. The resort caters particularly well for children, there are two exciting water parks nearby at Ayia Napa, which provide thrills and spills for all ages. Most visitors enjoy a stroll along the clifftops of the coastline, particularly in spring when the landscape is covered in wild flowers. The more energetic can hike up the steep crag on the outskirts of the resort to the Ayios Ilias Church from where there is a spectacular view. Local operators offer several day trips, sea cruises and excursions to places of interest, like into the Troodos Mountains or to explore the city of Nicosia. |