Protaras Holidays

Protaras is a purpose-built resort on the southeastern coast of Cyprus. The reason it’s here is the sandy patchwork of beaches that blankets the rugged coastline – which is a real draw in itself for the scenic walks. It’s a fairly compact place, so you’ll find the lively bars and restaurants right on the main street. And when you want to really let your hair down, the clubs and bars of Ayia Napa are just a 10-minute taxi ride away.

Beaches on this part of the coast are reckoned to be the island’s best. The resort’s main one, Fig Tree Bay, comes with a raft of watersports and a little island you can swim out to. There are five other quality beaches round here, too, some with Blue Flag status. Green Bay, about 10 minutes away, is more tranquil, and in the same area there’s also Sirena Bay. This one's a real secluded gem – a tiny cove with just a tree-shaded bar and restaurant.

It takes about 40 minutes to get to Varosha, one of the area’s most-visited places. The story here is that back in the Seventies the popular tourist spot turned into a ghost town practically overnight after the Turkish invasion. Eerily, it’s been deserted ever since. Or, for something completely different, a boat trip can take you to the protected nature park area of Cape Greco, which is also fine snorkelling territory.