Bang on the seafront, superb seascape and sunrises from seaview rooms, a popular gym and friendly efficient staff.

Only the Lonely

However, It’s just before Easter and sadly our visit to this popular hotel proves to be premature as the facilities are not fully functioning. The outside restaurants are still closed and by 8.30pm the huge dining room is a ghostly sea of white tablecloths, like the sleeping beauty waiting for her prince to give her the kiss of life.

Unfortunately, the a la carte is off the menu but with a flourish the headwaiter heroically rises to the occasion, conjuring up a steak Diane.

10.30pm, the pristine piano bar is like Heaven’s waiting room where the resident cats looking for company, curl up against the stray guests.

Good Times Ahead

However, let’s not be churlish. It’s a completely different kettle of Calamari from around mid-April onwards. The hotel becomes a joyous place; erupting with marriages and wedding parties on the beach. Couples can tie the knot at the very pretty chapel, Saint Constantine and St Helena in the grounds, or opt for a civil ceremony in the Gazebo on the seafront. The water sports are in full flow and all the restaurants and bars go alfresco.

For the energetic there are tennis and squash courts, a fully equipped gym, plus an indoor heated swimming pool. There is also the opportunity to go horse riding, just 6km from the hotel.The new garden bungalows built around a pool are perfect for families with young kids. Just a few paces away from the accommodation parents can keep a watchful eye on their offspring as they splash in the water.

But for now it’s the astonishing beauty of the glorious morning sunrise: splendid walks on the esplanade, a visit to Larnaca’s divine Saint Lazarus Church and the Castle with it’s Medieval cannons, followed by an appetizing fish Meze at Zephyros in the harbour.

To take part in the Cypriot culture we learn how to build the Meze into our day. The following afternoon, a visit to the gym and in the evening a walk along the seafront in preparation for the meat Meze at the celebrated Militzis Taverna which is marvellous.

We are happy to return to the hotel for another early night.

Palm Beach

Palm Beach

Morning and we rise to catch a glimpse of the sun bursting above the horizon and finally, a spa treatment for Philip with Maria, whose magic massage rockets him to the moon.

RR from €100 per night Low Season, inc BB – Bungalows €120. For bookings visit the Palm Beach Hotel & Bungalows website.

Book online with most leading travel agents including Travelmania who offer a one week deal from £599.00 per person including flights with Cyprus Airways from London Heathrow and return private taxi transfers – Tel: 020 7700 4844.