Aphrodite’s Rock is silhouetted by the sun’s rays, casting a shimmering, mirror-like glow across the still blue sea. Peaceful and idyllic, it is easy to imagine the goddess emerging from the seafoam between the towering rocks that guard this legendary coastline. Yet there is far more beauty here than myth alone.
I’m in Cyprus, an island woven with legends, antiquity and Mediterranean charm, where the spirit of Aphrodite still seems to linger. One such place embracing that sense of beauty and tranquillity is the five-star Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites Hotel, set on the largest sandy beach in Paphos, just 20 minutes from Aphrodite’s Rock.
Luxury is central to the experience. Recent refurbishments have introduced additional suites and an elegant rooftop bar perfectly positioned for sunset views across the Mediterranean. Some of the 111 suites feature private pools, while others open onto spacious balconies overlooking the sea or gardens. Two interconnected freshwater swimming pools wind through palm shaded grounds, creating an atmosphere that feels refined and relaxed.
The gardens themselves are a feature. Flowerbeds are planted with visibile precision, blending colour and texture with almost architectural symmetry. Tiled pathways weave through roses, petunias, marigolds and fragrant herbs, while olive trees and towering palms provide welcome shade from the Cypriot sun. There is an unmistakable English garden influence, perhaps one reason the hotel remains particularly popular with British guests, many of whom return year after year. The gardens are managed by Mr Panicos Kasparis, who has worked at the hotel for 37 years after previously landscaping royal estates in Oman and Saudi Arabia. His attention to detail is everywhere, from carefully selected grasses that maintain year-round colour to huge clay pots overflowing with flowers positioned to create height and balance throughout the grounds.
Food plays a central role in the hotel experience too. Across its restaurants, fresh local ingredients shape menus that celebrate both Cypriot and international cuisine. The Kymata Restaurant, set beside the sea, is particularly memorable. Open for long lunches and romantic dinners, it serves fresh fish, lamb and grilled meats in a relaxed tavern setting. As the sun begins to set, guests gather beneath the trees while a saxophonist, accordian player or folk dancers provide entertainment. Elsewhere, the gazebo offers one of the hotel’s most atmospheric spots for champagne and canapés while watching the Mediterranean turn gold at dusk.
During my stay, I joined a cookery class presentation, preparing salt crusted grouper, Cypriot salad and traditional lamb kleftiko, followed by a gin tasting, exploring the growing world of botanical gins. Infused with herbs, flowers and spices sourced from around the world, the tasting offered a fascinating insight into how flavours ranging from Bulgarian rose to Indonesian pepper are reshaping modern gin making.
The Asimina Suites Hotel’s location in the south west of the island makes it ideal for exploring the western region of Cyprus. A leisurely coastal walk leads into Paphos, a historic harbour town where ancient ruins sit alongside lively cafés, shops and restaurants. The old harbour remains one of the area’s focal points, watched over by Paphos Castle, originally built during the Byzantine period to protect the port. Rebuilt and restored over centuries by the Lusignans and Ottomans, the castle still stands as a reminder of the island’s history. Nearby sits the UNESCO-listed Paphos Archaeological Park, home to some of the finest Roman mosaics in the Mediterranean. The intricate floor mosaics, depicting gods, goddesses, battles and scenes from daily life remain visible despite dating back centuries. Here there is a feeling of stepping into Greek mythology.
Further inland, roads lined with orange and olive groves wind towards mountain villages where traditions remain rooted in daily life. In Letymbou, we visited Sophia House where Sophia, dressed in black and an infectious smile demonstrated the centuries old process of making halloumi and baking traditional bread, followed by a tasting… delicious.
At the Spring of Life Restaurant in Amargeti, local beer, wines and rich carob syrup showcased the island’s agricultural heritage, while the nearby vineyards highlighted Cyprus’s 6,000 year old wine culture. Kolios Winery lies at an altitude of 3000 feet and close to Statos Agios Fotios village and the Chrysorrogiatissa monastery in Paphos. Here they produce a range of organic wines.
Cyprus today offers far more than a traditional beach escape. Visitors increasingly seek destinations that combine culture, wellbeing and authentic local experiences, and this corner of the island delivers all three with ease. At Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites Hotel, luxury is balanced by genuine warmth and a strong sense of place. Beyond the elegant suites and immaculate gardens lies a Cyprus filled with mountain villages, ancient mosaics, vineyard covered hillsides and warm Mediterranean hospitality. Perhaps that is the enduring magic of Aphrodite’s island. Not simply the mythology surrounding her birthplace, but the way Cyprus quietly captivates through its history, landscapes, flavours and people. And as the final light fades across the Mediterranean from the terrace of Asimina Suites, it becomes easy to understand why so many visitors return to Paphos year after year.
For further information on the hotel visit https://www.asimina-cbh.com/
Travel Tips
Book online through Jet2Holidays www.jet2holidays.com, or you can call 01924 380 160
