Lisa from our team has recently visited Almyra Hotel & Spa so read her story here
What were your first impressions of the hotel?
That it's a vision of white and neutral tones - a Scandi feel with clean lines and contemporary furnishings. It's chic and modern and your eyes are immediately drawn to the sea outside and the dazzling blue sky. The interior is dotted with lots of interesting modern art pieces which I really liked. Location-wise, it's right on the sea-front of the pretty harbour town of Paphos. You can gaze down the private promenade at the back of the hotel, all the way to the impressive old Paphos Castle, perched at the end of the coast. It's also an easy stroll to some nice restaurants, cafes and shops and there are archaeological sites in the area.
What was the spa like?
It's a beautifully designed, stand-alone building with glass walls and sky-lights which turn the whole spa into a warm, sun-lit oasis of relaxation. There is an open-air yoga space plus an indoor lap pool and exterior lap pool with sun loungers and umbrellas around it for maximum chilling. I like steam rooms so the extra-large mosaic steam room got a big tick (there are separate facilities for men and women). Also pretty special are the sea-facing treatment rooms with floor to ceiling windows that slow you to meditate on the stunning sea-views while indulging in a rejuvenating treatment. There is something about the energy that comes in off the sea that is calming and powerful all at once. The spa manager was so warm and welcoming and she even taught me how to make some homemade beauty remedies. Another big bonus was the adult-only policy which is perfect for maintaining the calm atmosphere of the spa.
What did you like about the treatments?
I really liked the expertise of the therapists and the natural ingredients used in the treatments. The spa uses 3 brands - Osea, Ila and QMS Medicosmetics and they have all been carefully chosen for their high performance. I particularly enjoyed the Osea Malibu facial which was heavenly. My whole body felt utterly relaxed afterwards and my skin looked polished and smooth. Osea is a naturally derived and marine based with ingredients that include seaweed and pure organic essential oils and botanicals so no wonder I felt fab.
Favourite activity?
I'd definitely say the yoga on the wide open-air yoga platform. Taking in those sea-views added a whole new dimension to my practice and a welcome distraction when it got tough. There is a smallish but well-equipped gym with inspiring views out to sea plus a choice of daily group classes from yoga to aqua aerobics. There's also a water sports centre, tennis court and a long promenade just outside the hotel so you can head off on brisk walks or bike rides.
How was the food?
There's a very good choice of restaurants ranging from healthy meze to Japanese/Cypriot fusion cuisine. The spa has its own restaurant, Eauzone, which serves healthy meals and smoothies/juices. You can book in here for breakfast each day if you want to avoid buffet-table temptation in the main restaurant!
The breakfast buffet was especially good with plenty of healthy choices so easy to get off to a 'good' start every morning.
What was your favourite aspect of the resort?
Apart from the spa which was faultless, I loved the walkways through the grounds which are lined with lavender and rosemary bushes and smell divine. An enchanting touch are the olive trees filled with tiny lanterns at night - rather magical.
A top tip
I'd definitely recommend upgrading to a room with a sea view, as it's really a special feature of the hotel.
Who would you recommend Almyra to?
Anyone looking for a chic and buzzy water-front atmosphere and a sensational spa experience. There's also lots to do and see in the area, like visiting the Troodos Mountains or Akamas Peninsula.
For personalised advice, please call our expert wellness team on 020 3735 7555.
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