Situated on the east coast of Cyprus, Protaras covers approximately 5km of the golden Famagusta Coastline. Protaras flourished into a charming tourist resort in the 1980s as a more sophisticated alternative to the buzzing and wild atmosphere of its neighbouring town; Agia Napa (located 7 km west of Protaras).
Before becoming a tourist resort, Protaras was essentially uninhabited; the area was mostly covered by a multitude of windmills, some of which still stand, adding to the character of the Protaras landscape. Artefacts uncovered during recent excavations dating back to the Greco-Roman era (58 BC - 395 AD) suggest the land where Protaras now exists may have been the ancient town of Lefkola, notable in those times for its hustling port.
Protaras became an idyllic holiday resort largely due to the beautiful sandy beaches in its vicinity. There are several excellent beaches, each developed to appeal to a particular type of holidaymaker. For instance, the main beach “Fig Tree Bay”, regarded as one of the most popular beaches on the island, offers a wide range of water-sports, while to the north of the coastline, the tranquil waters of Skoutari Beach, make for great snorkelling.
Protaras is particularly apt for package-holidays owing to the impressive array of hotels that have been built in the area since not many people actually reside in this town. Some hotels are enormous comprising several swimming pools and have been purpose-built to fulfil their guests’ every need. The "All-inclusive" deals at these hotels often cover the use of deluxe sports facilities such as tennis courts, gymnasiums and spas.
The Golden Coast Hotel has been my favourite hotel in the area since it was built in 1986. Every summer, I spend at least a weekend there. Following tradition, I spent this weekend at The Golden Coast which also boasts one of the island's most attractive bays. This is where I look forward to having the first swim of the year in early June which marks the beginning of summer.
It was a quiet and peaceful weekend during which I had the chance to relax and unwind after a hectic week at work. Last night, after dinner, Alkis and I had the pleasure to watch the fire show right on the beach. It was an impressive show with real fire and excellent dancers. I really can't wait to go back to the Golden Coast Hotel, hopefully soon.
Photos and Video by Anastasia Marou
Love that fire show! Thanks for sharing the video and all the great pictures.
Posted by: Andy | June 11, 2012 at 12:03 AM
Most of my friends back home in the UK have already spent a holiday in Cyprus and they all have great stories to share. I'd so much love to spend a holiday at Protaras. The place looks magical!
Posted by: Jim | June 11, 2012 at 12:17 AM
Sounds like you had a real hot wk getaway! Great fire show!!!
Posted by: Katie White | June 11, 2012 at 12:40 AM
Thank you for this very entertaining video! I've been very busy at work as well and now I feel like taking a vacation!
Posted by: Haruko N | June 11, 2012 at 12:54 AM
I need to take a break, slow down and relax... like turn off technology or unplug my computer for at least 24 hours.
I need to learn how to foster the art of doing almost nothing but gaze at the birds,or the ocean, listen to the wind, watch a movie or read a good book. I also need to learn how to engage in the moment and balance my life with rest. Reading your posts helps me slow down and indulge in at least one slow morning a week where there is no time commitment to get ready for. I just focus on being more than doing.
Posted by: Jeff | June 11, 2012 at 01:40 AM
You have such a nice blog ! I'm following you now on GFC and bloglovin :) if you want to check out my
blog, and follow me back if you like it, it would be amazing ;)
Posted by: jordan heels | June 11, 2012 at 09:18 AM
I prefer Protaras in early Spring when it's not yet packed with holiday makers. Even if the sea is still too cold to swim, on a sunny day I enjoy fishing although I'm not much of a fisherman :-) The fire show is, indeed, amazing!
Posted by: Lakis Ioannou | June 11, 2012 at 12:47 PM
Thanks for sharing part of the show. Very impressive! I wonder how these dancers can dance with the fire without getting burned! Great entertainment!
Posted by: Stefania | June 11, 2012 at 05:44 PM
This weekend was my third swim. My first one was end of May when the sea was still a bit chilly but once I was in,it was just perfect! Now it's much warmer. There are some great beaches in Lemesos as well, but I agree that Protaras has got the loveliest golden beaches in Cyprus. My favourite beach in Lemesos is Dizzy Bizzy by the Sea at Dasoudi.You must come one day. I am sure you'll love it!
Posted by: Sophia | June 11, 2012 at 06:57 PM
Wow! What a firy and exotic show! I could watch that video over and over again. When I was in Cyprus I visited Protaras once or twice and really loved the array of golden beaches and beautiful bays against an amazingly blue sky. Swimming in those deep blue waters was a unique experience for me that I'm not likely ever to forget. Your wonderful photos just reminded me of those days
Posted by: Alexia M | June 11, 2012 at 09:51 PM
So glad to see you had such an exciting weekend. Brilliant fire show combined with great dancing, lovely photos - in short: a great post and a great read! Thank you, Anastasia.
Posted by: Laura | June 13, 2012 at 01:15 PM
Amazing fire show and great pics!
Posted by: Tatiana | June 13, 2012 at 01:26 PM
Loved the video!
Posted by: Andreas | June 16, 2012 at 11:54 PM