Festive Walking in Western Cyprus
If you’re looking to escape the British chill this winter, join us for a fabulous festive walking break in Cyprus. With its world-famous archaeological sites, mountains, nature trails, and beaches, this sunny Mediterranean island offers an endless variety of things to see and do. Holiday highlights include discovering the island's amazing ancient ruins, taking coastal walks along the Akamas Peninsula, trekking in the UNESCO-listed Troödos Mountains, and admiring beautiful natural landscapes. And when you’re not out exploring the island and soaking up some winter sun, you’ll stay in the chic harbourside resort of Paphos and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere and festivities at our popular hotel.
What you’ll love
- Celebrating Christmas on the beautiful island of Cyprus
- Staying in the port city of Paphos, the birthplace of Aphrodite
- Soaking up the scenery of the Troodos Mountains
- Taking in views of the stunning Akamas Peninsula
- Sampling Cypriot food and wine
What’s included
- 3 guided walks led by local HF Holidays Leaders
- HF Holidays Tour Manager
- 7 nights half-board accommodation at a 4-star hotel
- Festive dinner on 24 December including welcome aperitif & glass of wine
- Lunch on 25 December (Please note this is not a traditional Christmas meal)
- Sightseeing tour of Limassol
- Festive hotel entertainment programme from 22 December, including music, dancing, quizzes, bowling, and festive crafts
- Return flights from the UK including hold baggage and airport transfers(on with flight holiday)
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Welcome to the Constantinou Bros Hotel. Unpack and settle in.
Option 1 - Birthplace of Aphrodite
Distance: 4.5 miles (7.5km)
Ascent: 165 feet (50m)
Today a wonderful hike awaits us on the southwest coast of Cyprus, where we will follow in the footsteps of Aphrodite - the goddess of love. We start at the rock of Aphrodite (Petra tou Romiou), where, according to Homer, the goddess of love rose from the waves of the sea. During our walk we always have a wonderful view of the turquoise sea and the rugged coast - what a panorama. In addition, the rich vegetation delights the heart of every hiker. With over 130 endemic plants, Cyprus is a paradise for botanists and nature lovers. At the end of the hike, we will be rewarded with a tasty picnic with Cypriot specialties and wine!
Option 2 - Pissouri Plateau
Distance: 6 miles (9.5 km)
Ascent: 1,200 ft (380m)
This walk follows the same route as option one but lengthens things slightly by continuing from Kefalovrisia to Fontana Amorosa for the excellent views over the lovely Chrysochou Bay.
Troödos Mountains walks via Profitis Elias Trail
Option 1 - Profitis Elias Trail (shorter)
Distance: 3.5 miles (6km)
Ascent: 1,300 feet (400m)
Our morning begins with a drive into the southwestern foothills of the Troodos Mountains where we’ll start our day in the village of Panayia - birthplace of Archbishop Makarios III, the first president of Cyprus. We'll visit the monastery of Chrysorroyiatissa and enjoy a tasting of local wine and Cypriot specialties.
Enjoy views over the mountains and the Akamas Peninsula as we continue walking behind the monastery on a trail that leads to Profiti Elias. This long, distinctive ridge is made of an accumulation of bigger and smaller rocks, offering refuge to an array of wildlife. With a little bit of luck, we may be able to see the Eurasian griffon or the imperial eagle, both nesting here.
Please note: both routes are level 3 grade.
Option 2 - Profitis Elias Trail (longer)
Distance: 6 miles (10km)
Ascent: 1300 feet (400m)
This option features the same route and highlights as option 1 but follows a slightly longer trail at a faster pace.
Please note: Both routes are level 3 grade
Christmas Eve is a free day when no guided walks are offered. This is an ideal opportunity to relax at the hotel, walk independently, or visit local places of interest. In the evening, the hotel will provide a wonderful festive dinner complete with a welcome aperitif and a glass of wine.
Free day suggestions include:
Paphos Waterfront
Stroll along the promenade to the harbour and enjoy a drink overlooking the town’s imposing castle. Some of the best restaurants and cafés are located here, most of which offer superb views of the sea.
Pano Paphos (Upper Paphos)
Known locally as Ktima or Pano Pahos, this part of town is characterised by its beautiful, white-washed houses and busy shopping scene. Keep your eyes peeled for the striking street art that lends the place a splash of colour.
Paphos Archaeological Park (Nea Paphos)
Backed by the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, this outstanding UNESCO World Heritage Site features extensive Greco-Roman ruins and incredibly well-preserved mosaics depicting Greek mythology. Believed to have been in use as far back as the 3rd century BC, the Tombs of the Kings (a network of ancient underground burial chambers) are just one of the many highlights.
Merry Christmas. Celebrate Christmas Day morning enjoying the hotel facilities or exploring Paphos before a delicious lunch. The rest of the day is yours to use as you choose. Get involved in a selection of festive-themed hotel activities, unwind by the pool, share a drink at the bar, or relax in your room. In the evening you can expect Christmas entertainment such as live music and dancing.
Today is all about sightseeing in and around the Limassol district. We begin with a trip to ancient Kourion, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Cyprus. Wander between the ruins of this once mighty Greek city state, marvel at the remarkably well-preserved mosaics in the House of Eustolios and be wowed by the Greco-Roman amphitheater that dates from the 2nd century BCE.
Smigies Nature Trail walks and Cypriot lunch.
Option 1 - Smigies Trail (shorter)
Distance: 5 miles (8km)
Ascent: 800 feet (260m)
The Smigies Nature Trail includes two circular routes that begin and end at the popular Smigies picnic site. The short route crosses the beautiful sun-drenched plains of Skoteini to the vineyards of Pampela. We’ll continue along a tree-lined road that opens out onto panoramic views over Chrysochou Bay and the 70,000-hectare protected game preserve that is Paphos Forest. We’ll celebrate the final walk of the holiday with a delicious picnic complete with Cypriot specialities such as grilled Greek cheese and local sausages served with ouzo and wine.
Option 2 - Smigies Trail (longer)
Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)
Ascent: 800 feet (260m)
This walk crosses the mountain slopes of Peana and offers far-reaching views of the Akamas Peninsula’s west coast including Lara Bay, Karabópetres, and Geronisos island. The trail follows the mountain ridge road which leads to Cape Arnaoutis before heading east through an old metal quarry and ending up in the location of Pampela where the two Smigies routes meet. On completion, we’ll celebrate the final walk of the holiday with a delicious Cypriot picnic (same as Option 1).
We hope to see you again soon.
Constantinou Brothers Athena Beach - Cyprus
The 4-star Constantinou Bros Athena Beach Hotel enjoys an enviable beachfront location in a quiet part of Paphos. Alongside a wide range of facilities and bright spacious rooms, the hotel has won numerous Silver and Gold Hotel Awards from HF Holidays for their outstanding quality.
Rooms
All the bedrooms are spacious, very well equipped and have been recently refurbished.
The hotels have comfortable en-suite bedrooms with private balconies and breathtaking sea or land views.
All rooms have flat screen LCD satellite TV and radio, direct dial telephone, Wi-Fi, safe deposit boxes, tea and coffee making facilities replenished daily, espresso machine, fridge, a mini-bar (on request with charge), hairdryer, bathrobe and slippers, and air conditioning May-October or heating November- April. Rooms also include bathroom with bath tub, rain shower and flexible hose shower, scales, magnifying mirror, floor to ceiling windows, deluxe toiletries, ironing facilities, pool/beach towels in room towels, USB socket.
About your stay
Hotel facilities Athena Beach Hotel
- Bar with a large, comfortable terrace
- Beautiful views of the Mediterranean and the hotel's tranquil gardens
- 3 freshwater swimming pools
- Indoor pool (heated November to March)
- Indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis
- Floodlit tennis courts
- 24-rink indoor and outdoor bowls green facilities
- Mini-golf
- Mini market/souvenir shop
- Jewellery shop
- Free parking
- Laundry and dry cleaning facilities
- Currency exchange
Hotel's Elixir Spa
- Heated pool (heated November to March)
- 2 Saunas
- Steam bath
- Gym
- Hairdressing salon
- Professional massages
- Aromatherapy and other treatments to help relax and rejuvenate
Hotel facilities Pioneer Beach Hotel
- 3 Bars. 1 with beautiful views of the Mediterranean and the hotel's tranquil gardens
- 1 freshwater swimming pool
- Indoor pool (heated November to March)
- Indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis
- Floodlit tennis court
- Indoor and outdoor bowls green facilities
Mini market/souvenir shop - Jewellery shop
- Free parking
- Laundry and dry cleaning facilities
- Currency exchange
Hotel's Elixir Spa
- Heated pool (heated November to March)
- 2 Saunas free of charge
- 1 Steam bath
- Gym
- Hairdressing salon
- Professional massages
Hotel policies
Mobility scooters are not permitted in the hotel, although use of manual or electric wheelchairs are.
Food & drink
Holidays on Cyprus are half-board with an extensive breakfast selection and 3-course evening buffet.
Breakfast
This an extensive self-service continental buffet selection and hot options are also available.
Lunch (payable locally)
A picnic lunch can be ordered in advance from the hotel or purchased from the shop on the lower ground floor which is open Monday to Sunday 7.30am until 10pm.
Evening meal
3-course evening meal served from the buffet.
There will be a vegetarian menu option but if you have any special dietary requirements we recommend that you discuss your preferences with the hotel management.
Drinks
The hotel has a well-stocked bar serving beer, wine and spirits.
Dress code
The dress code for the Constantinou Bros Hotel are:
Dinner: Smart/casual - knee length tailored shorts, closed shoes and t-shirts with sleeves
A La Carte Restaurant: Long trousers, closed shoes, t-shirts with sleeves
Your evenings
In Europe, our walking holidays continue into the evening. Enjoy a glass of wine or local beer whilst listening to your leaders outlining the next day's walks. After a relaxed evening meal take advantage of the warm evenings and chat with your fellow guests drinking a cocktail in the hotel gardens or just listen to live music one evening at your hotel.
The hotel's location is ideal for a leisurely stroll into the old town, where you can watch the world go by and soak up the atmosphere with a relaxing drink at one of the pavement café bars around Paphos harbour front; just follow the path from the beach front. Or you may like to relax on the terrace or in the bar, with a drink and chat.
Essential information
It's best to be prepared for all weather conditions. To make it easier, here is a list of items you should consider packing.
Essentials
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Insulated jacket/top
- Walking clothing
- Walking socks (plus spares)
- Sunhat
- Gloves/mitts and warm hat
- Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)
- Headtorch
- High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)
- Sunglasses with a dark lens
- Rucksack (15-30 litres)
- Mobile phone
- Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.)
- Passport
- Visa (if applicable)
- Copy of your travel insurance policy
- UK Global Health Insurance Card (formerly known as EHIC)
Recommended
- Collapsible walking poles
- Swimwear and travel towel
- Snacks
- Dry bags
- Rubbish bags
- Insect repellent
Optional extras
- Camera
- Sit mat
- Flask for hot drinks
- Durable lunch box
- Gaiters
- GPS device
Guest reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
Non-member fee: £30 per person.
If you choose land only, you will be responsible for making your own travel arrangements, including your flights and airport transfers at your destination. Any flights booked independently will also not be covered by our ATOL license.
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | ||||||||
|
21 Dec - 28 Dec 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary Flight from London Heathrow Airport
Single Call to Enquire
Double Call to Enquire
|
Call to Enquire | Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
||||
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | ||||||||
|
21 Dec - 28 Dec 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary
Single Call to Enquire
Double Call to Enquire
|
Call to Enquire | Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
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Important information
- With flight holidays: Price includes return flights to Larnaca, hold baggage and airport transfers.
- Independent travellers can join our transfers from Larnaca Airport- please contact us for prices
*If you prefer to make your own travel arrangements, please ensure you’ve selected a land-only option before proceeding to book.
1481Kg of CO₂e
Average carbon footprint per person Learn More
