Anassa

The Greek islands are the stars of the Mediterranean at the moment — but for all the spectacular beauty, and none of the crowds of tourists, Cyprus is a good bet. And as for lodging, Anassa is the queen of this island, perched majestically above the Mediterranean Sea.

The hotel is styled after a Byzantine village, a loose collection of gleaming white villas with terra cotta roofs clinging to the cliffside, with a view over the ocean to the Akamas peninsula and the goddess Aphrodite’s fabled baths. All rooms, from the humblest double, are spacious and elegant, in bright Mediterranean colors, many with private terraces overlooking the sea — some, in the suites, with sea-facing plunge pools or whirlpool baths.

Anassa is a rather self-contained experience, and many guests don’t bother leaving the grounds at all during their stay. There’s little cause to leave the suites at all, though if your room doesn’t have its own plunge pool, you’ve got three swimming pools to choose from. And four excellent restaurants may seem like overkill, but we’re not complaining, as all are equally fine.

Merely to list all the water sports and physical activities would be exhausting in itself, but all the usual suspects are accounted for, from tennis and golf to squash and even rock climbing. This is the sort of place where the Roman-style spa has more takers than the fitness center — one can always work out at home, but few of us can claim that our neighborhood gym offers thalassotherapy and algae wraps. Do book these in advance, though, as they are much in demand.

And a note for parents — Anassa not only welcomes children, but ensures they are well looked after with a comprehensive children’s program. And non-parents, don’t fret; even fully booked, Anassa never feels crowded, and you won’t be stepping over someone else’s tykes on the way to the pool.


How to get there:
Anassa is approximately a 45-minute drive from Paphos International Airport (PFO).