Festive Walking in Western Cyprus

On Offer

7 nights accommodation

Availability Dec 2026

2 Itineraries available

Half Board

Grades 2 & 3 details

1481kg CO2 details

Non-members From

£1,399

pp

Inc flights

Members From

£1,349

pp

Inc flights

For group booking of 10 or more please click here
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 festive atmosphere and activities at our popular hotel.

Accommodation

A range of handpicked hotels...
The 4-star Constantinou Bros Athena Beach Hotel enjoys an enviable beachfront location in a quiet part of Paphos, offering a wide range of facilities and bright spacious rooms. All the bedrooms are spacious and well equipped with a private balcony where guests can relax.
Athena Beach - Cyrpus

What You’ll Love

  • Celebrating the Festive season 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
  • Gala dinner
  • Sightseeing tour of Limassol
  • Seasonal entertainment
  • Return flights from the UK including hold baggage and airport transfers(on with flight holiday)

Reviews


Gallery

Itinerary

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.

New Year

Welcome to the Constantinou Bros Hotel. Unpack and settle in. 

Option 1 - Birthplace of Aphrodite

Distance: 4.5 miles (7.5km)

Ascent: 150 feet (60m)  

The short option on our first day takes us along the island’s stunning southwest coast. First up is the sea stack known as Petra tou Romiou where legend has it, Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, was born. We’ll continue along the rugged coastline to soak up sea views and learn about the rich variety of rare plants and vegetation that thrive in the Mediterranean climate. At the end of the walk, we’ll stop for a delicious picnic complete with Cypriot specialities and wine.

Option 2 - The Pissouri Plateau

Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)

Ascent: 1,200 feet (380m)

Our longer walk starts in Pissouri where on a clear day you can see the Troödos Mountain range and Mount Olympus – the highest peak in Cyprus. We’ll ramble through the island’s rural regions passing fields full of carob trees, gorse, and rockroses as well as old shepherding huts. From the high plateau, we’re rewarded with superb views over the coast and Petra tou Romiou, the sea stack where legend has it, Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, was born. At the end of the walk, we’ll stop for a delicious picnic complete with Cypriot specialities and wine.

New Years 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. 

Happy New Year. Celebrate New Year's Day by enjoying the hotel facilities or exploring Paphos. 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 entertainment such as live music and dancing.  

Troödos Mountains walks via Profitis Elias Trail 

Option 1 - 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 

Option 2 - 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.

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. 

Christmas

Welcome to the Constantinou Bros Hotel. Unpack and settle in. 

Option 1 - The Pissouri Plateau

Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)

Ascent: 1,200 feet (380m)

Our longer walk starts in Pissouri where on a clear day you can see the Troödos Mountain range and Mount Olympus – the highest peak in Cyprus. We’ll ramble through the island’s rural regions passing fields full of carob trees, gorse, and rockroses as well as old shepherding huts. From the high plateau, we’re rewarded with superb views over the coast and Petra tou Romiou, the sea stack where legend has it, Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, was born. At the end of the walk, we’ll stop for a delicious picnic complete with Cypriot specialities and wine.

Option 2 - 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!

 

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.  

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 roomIn the evening you can expect Christmas entertainment such as live music and dancing.  

Troödos Mountains walks via Profitis Elias Trail 

Option 1 - 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 

Option 2 - 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.

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. 

Daily Walk Options

Grade 2

Easier Walks

Good paths but walks are a bit longer. Some walks, particularly in mountain areas, may have sections over rough or steeper terrain.

Grade 3

Medium Walks

Walks follow well-defined paths, though often in hilly or upland areas, or along rugged coastal footpaths. These may be rough or steep in sections and will require reasonable fitness.

Accommodation

Constantinou Brothers Athena Beach - Cyprus

The 4-star Constantinou Bros Athena Beach Hotel enjoys an enviable beachfront location in a quiet part of Paphos, offering a wide range of facilities and bright spacious rooms. All the bedrooms are spacious and well equipped with a private balcony where guests can relax.

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. 

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

All the bedrooms are spacious, very well equipped with a private balcony where guests can relax.

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.

Getting here

Address

Athena Beach Hotel
Poseidonos Avenue
CY8101 Paphos
Cyprus

Tel: 00357 26 884 300

More Information

Vaccinations & health information EU NEW 2026

Before booking, you should check with your doctor to see whether any health precautions are needed for your trip. Health advice and requirements can change, so we recommend doing this in good time before travel.

As a general rule, travellers should ensure they are up to date with routine UK vaccinations and boosters, including, for example, MMR and diphtheria, tetanus and polio. Some countries may require you to have specific vaccinations such as Malaria, Rabies and Yellow Fever. Please check with your GP if you are unsure.

Please note that the use or possession of some common prescription or over-the-counter medicines is restricted or banned in certain countries. If you will be carrying medication, you should check with the relevant embassy or consulate before travelling. As an extra precaution, we recommend keeping medication in its original packaging, carrying a copy of your prescription, and, where possible, asking your pharmacist to provide the medication name in the language of the country you are visiting.

For further country-specific health advice, visit www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.traveldoctor.co.uk. If you are travelling from outside the UK, please consult your own doctor and check local entry requirements.

 

Passport & Visa information - SHARED FOR ALL EU NEW 2026

This information is for those travelling with a full ‘British Citizen’ passport; for all other nationalities or passport holders, please check with your local consulate for advice.

Passport Requirements

This information applies to travellers holding a full British Citizen passport. Entry requirements vary by destination and can change at short notice. For most EU and worldwide destinations, passports must be valid for the entire duration of your stay. Some countries also require a minimum period of validity remaining on your passport (often up to 6 months beyond your return date), even if you are not staying that long.
We strongly recommend ensuring your passport has at least six months’ validity remaining at the time of travel to avoid any issues.

If you hold a different type of British passport or a passport issued by another country, you must check the requirements with the relevant embassy, consulate, or official government website.

Visa Requirements

Visa rules depend on your nationality, destination, length of stay, and purpose of travel, and they can change frequently. It is your responsibility to check whether you require a visa before travelling.
British passport holders should check the latest entry, passport validity and visa requirements for their destination on the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

 

 

Packing list - Overseas Guided Walking

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 (excluding Bhutan, Georgia and India)

With flights EU & WW

Book your holiday ‘with flights’ and you can choose to depart from a range of UK airports* to your destination. For latest flight times and prices please call us on 0203-974-8865 or email reservations@hfholidays.co.uk  

If you choose to book your flights with us, we automatically include return transfers between the destination airport and hotel.  

Without flights EU

Alternatively, tailor your journey to suit you by booking your holiday ‘without flights’ and you’ll have the freedom to book your own flights from your local airport.   

*Subject to availability 

Local currency (Europe)

The local currency is the Euro (€)

Electricity information for Cyprus

220 Volt AC with square 3-pin plugs as per the UK.

ATM availability for Cyprus

There are several ATM machines in Paphos where you can obtain money.

Carbon Footprint - 1481kg CO2

We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.

Learn more

Reviews

Code: CYP07-LXL09

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Dates & availability

Festive Walking in Western Cyprus

Members save an additional £50 on this booking and get a range of other exclusive benefits. You can join during booking process. Read more about membership

2026

22 Dec - 29 Dec 2026

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,599

£1,369

pp

Members

£1,549

£1,319

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Save £100 Per Person

29 Dec 2026 - 5 Jan 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,499 £1,399

£1,329 £1,229

pp

Members

£1,449 £1,349

£1,279 £1,179

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

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Trusted British co-operative

We are proud to be Britain’s only walking holiday co-operative. Led by almost 40,000 members, offering hundreds of holidays across the UK and overseas, with all surplus being reinvested back into our Society.

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Flexible choice of guided walks

Experienced volunteer HF Leaders guide every walk at our UK country houses, offering up to three daily options. Making it easy to find a holiday to suit your ability, and with the flexibility to switch grades each walking day.

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Book early with confidence

Become an HF Member to benefit from our Price Pledge. Secure your first choice of holiday early, and if the cost drops after you book, we will automatically refund the difference (exc. travel agent & group bookings).

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Book with confidence

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests 

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Travel with confidence

We know that peace of mind is priceless, so we’ll always go above and beyond to meet – and exceed – expectations

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

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HF Holidays

A British heritage brand with 111 years of experience

Offering a choice of over 260 itineraries in nearly 40 countries

Run as a co-operative with 40,000-plus members

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