Fig Tree Bay & Protaras
Protaras, the tranquil Mediterranean resort town on the eastern coast of Cyprus, is known for its prime location on the magnificent Fig Tree Bay Beach. The blue pristine waters and fine golden sand of Fig Tree Bay is recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, continually rewarded with the prestigious Blue Flag Award, given only to the best seaside resorts. The majority of Protaras’ visitors are from England, a convenient four-hour flight away.
Photo: The beach of Protaras & Fig Tree Bay
The town of Protaras was built from scratch, raised from the desert scrub like a phoenix, with the fervent construction of hotels, vacation apartments, cafes, shops and discos along the shore. Families and couples on holiday flock to this Cypriot destination, with a colonial past, to enjoy all manner of seaside activities, including sunbathing, scuba diving, snorkeling and parasailing. When the Mediterranean sun goes down, the abundant bars and discos awaken for a fun-filled night of dancing and revelry.
Where to Stay
Protaras boasts nearly 10 miles of stunning coastline with scenic limestone cliffs and it is jam packed with every imaginable type of resort accommodations, from four-star hotels and sumptuous private villas to more modest self-catering apartments. Many Protaras vacationers make use of the affordable package tours, which also include meals, either half board with a hearty English style breakfast and afternoon snacks, or full board. Some hotels also offer full water sports activities in their all-inclusive rates.
Try the four-star rated Capo Bay Hotel, located just a few steps from Fig Tree Bay Beach for laid back, but luxurious accommodations also suitable for families. The Capo Bay is also popular for weddings. As Cyprus is known as the Island of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, many English couples plan their weddings here.
Most hotels offer at least one pool and numerous kid-friendly activities. The Louis Agios Elias Village is one of the most highly rated resorts on Fig Tree Bay catering to families. It features over one hundred pretty cottages framing a mini-village complete with a landscaped town square, its own supermarket, kid’s club center and two restaurants. The kid’s club center offers a petting zoo, donkey rides and a cinema.
Things to Do
The highlight of any vacation to Protaras and Fig Tree Bay is of course, the stunning beach with its cerulean waters, soaring cliffs and hidden coves. The beach is said to have received its moniker from a lone fig tree that was planted by 17th century invaders. Besides sunbathing and swimming, vacationers can participate in snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing and take a scenic boat excursion. A little island off the beach is popular for snorkeling to explore the beautiful underwater reefs and schools of exotic fish.
For some non-beach activities, visitors can climb to the top of a rugged cliff to the tiny Byzantine style Church of Ayios Ilias, for a panoramic view of the magnificent bay below. There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping, clubbing and dining in the local Cypriot tavernas, which feature Greek specialties, such as meze and kleftico. The popular Nicolas Tavern even offers nightly Greek dancing and the occasional tradition of breaking dishes.
For a truly unique experience, schedule a visit to see the Magic Dancing Waters, a one-hour light and water show complete with smoke, illuminated fountains, fire and volcanic eruptions coordinated to classical and popular music selections.