It’s the perfect last-minute Autumn escape
If the prospect of cold autumn mornings, rain and wind fills you with dread, you might be considering booking a holiday this Autumn for one last dose of late summer sun.
Many resorts begin to close down around this time of year, winding down their tourist attractions as visitor numbers decrease, nights draw in and temperatures start to fall.
However, there’s one Mediterranean island where the main destinations remain very much open, offering plenty to those holidaymakers who aren’t quite ready to accept that summer is over or who want to treat the kids to a half-term trip to help alleviate the back-to-school stress.
Cyprus, the third largest island in the Mediterranean, is nestled in the sparkling waters southeast of Greece and south of Turkey. Less than a five-hour flight from the UK, it’s one of the warmest places in this part of the European Union due to its subtropical climate, and summer generally lasts eight months from April through to November.
October temperatures can reach 28C or even higher on occasion, and even during the cooler four months, it’s possible to enjoy 20C. Coastal areas in December enjoy as many hours of sunshine as London does in May on average, reports the Mirror.
The main resorts take full advantage of their balmy climates and welcome holidaymakers late into the season. On the East Coast, restaurants and kids’ clubs in Paphos and Limassol are still up and running and lively. The beaches of Protaras and Ayia Napa are bustling in the peak summer months, but by this time of year, they’re much quieter, making them ideal for families to enjoy. The sea temperature averages around 24C, perfect for a dip.
For those travelling with young children or elderly companions, the sandy, tranquil beach of Fig Tree Bay in Protaras is a great choice. Here, you can explore the stunning turquoise waters through snorkelling or on a boat trip. Limassol boasts a lengthy stretch of beautiful coastline, complete with Blue Flag beaches and an impressive marina.
If you’re after more than just building sandcastles and sunbathing, the island is home to numerous water and amusement parks. Ayia Napa, always buzzing with activity, houses several, with the Greek mythology-themed WaterWorld being the most renowned. Meanwhile, the naturally landscaped Aphrodite Waterpark is located in Paphos.
Paphos is also where history buffs can visit the Tombs of the Kings. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a peek into the enigmatic burial practices in underground tombs dating back to the 4th century. Larnaca, Cyprus’s oldest city, is rich in historical sites, museums, churches and cathedrals.
Traditional Cypriot cuisine draws influences from Greece and the Middle East. Meze is a favourite, featuring a variety of small dishes such as dips, grilled meats, seafood and cheese, particularly halloumi, which is the national cheese.
Souvlaki (charcoal skewered meat) and Stifado – a hearty stew, as well as makaronia tou fournou, a baked pasta dish, are all popular and delicious options. For those with a more selective palate or younger visitors, there are plenty of restaurants offering British-inspired menus.
Recent travellers to Cyprus have shared their experiences on Tripadvisor, with one providing advice on the autumn weather. They said: “We have been four times to Paphos in October. The temperature in mid-October in the early afternoon has been around 28 degrees with beautiful blue skies. We have been able to dine al fresco in the early evening and used a pashmina later. Could still swim in the pool but it was a bit chilly. The sea, however, was fine to swim in.”
Another added: “We’re always there mid-October and it’s lovely – still short sleeves in the evenings.”
Looking for more from MyLondon? Subscribe to our daily newsletters here for the latest and greatest updates from across London.
