Cyprus bookings on the rise for 2018

Sunvil sees 30% rise in Cyprus bookings 

Sunvil, the tailor-made holiday specialist, has announced a 30% rise in passenger numbers to Cyprus in 2017 compared with 2016, and there are plans to build on this increase in 2018. The 2017 Sunvil figure exceeds the Cyprus Tourist Organisation’s recent report of a 14.7% increase in tourists visiting the island this year compared to last.

Predominantly attracting couples, and travellers of an older demographic, Sunvil’s clients visit the island to find the real Cyprus. This includes unspoilt beaches where turtles nest plus a rugged coastline, rare plants and migratory birds, ancient towns, the verdant mountains and the wine routes in the foothills, plus gold frescoed Byzantine churches. With great appeal all year round, Cyprus is popular right into the later months of the year, with its long, warm autumn and short, mild winter with vivid blue skies.

“Spring flowers are also a great reason to visit”, says Rachel Jelley, Sunvil’s Marketing Manager, “and spring starts very early in Cyprus – from mid/late February onwards, with the bright yellow mimosa blossom that’s seen everywhere.”

2018 will mark the 48th year that Sunvil has promoted this enchanting island, the third largest in the Mediterranean, just a 4½ hour flight from the UK and home to some of the world’s most welcoming people.

Here are some of Sunvil’s hidden Cyprus ideas for 2018 – all perfect for fly/drive trips

Troodos Mountains

The Troodos region is blissfully quiet, formed of tranquil valleys, dense forest and mountains which remain cool in summer and are often snow-bound in winter, with modest skiing opportunities for those who are keen. Perfect for walkers and nature lovers alike, Sunvil offers a range of properties in the Troodos Mountains – from small inns to stylish spa hotels, including the stunning mountain spa resort Casale Panayiotis, overlooking the historic St. John Lambadistis Monastery (a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site). The 28 individually-designed rooms are sited in independent traditional houses scattered throughout the village, and the recently-completed complex also includes a restaurant and arguably the best spa on the island.

Polis and Akamas

Up the coast from Paphos (the city of Paphos being this year’s European Capital of Culture) is an unspoilt area where travellers will find deserted beaches, a wild coastline, traditional villages, stupendous views and dramatic sunsets. The Akamas National Park is perfect for nature lovers, walkers and keen photographers or painters – wild orchids are found everywhere in the spring months.

Sunvil offers villa-with-pool, hotel and apartment accommodation in villages such as Latchi, with its marina and fish tavernas, Droushia with its magnificent views of Polis, the coastline and the Troodos mountains (plus its famous fresh halloumi cheese), and Lysos, at the edge of the Paphos forest, with great walking and cycling routes, and also rich in bird-life and wild flowers. In Latchi, the Anassa Hotel occupies beautifully-landscaped grounds on an excellent beach and the Droushia Heights Hotel has undergone a complete renovation/upgrade, now featuring a health centre and lavish gardens. 

SAMPLE ITINERARY: Sunvil’s seven-night tailor-made touring holiday, including 2 nights at The Library Hotel near Larnaca, 3 nights at Casale Panayiotis in Kalopanayiotis and 2 nights at Droushia Heights Hotel in Droushia, costs from £694 pp (two sharing), including flights, car hire and B&B throughout. To find out more about Sunvil’s holidays to Cyprus and wide range of options, call 020 8758 4758 or visit www.sunvil.co.uk

Early booking offer: Book before 28th February 2018 and enjoy a £100 reduction on villa bookings per week (excludes bookings from 1st July – 30th September) and a complimentary meal (lunch or dinner) with a bottle of excellent local wine (per couple) at a local taverna that’s been chosen for its authenticity and welcome. Villa prices are from £621 pp for a seven-night stay, including flights, accommodation and car hire.