Cyprus recently announced that it will be opening its borders to UK visitors at the start of the summer. Travel abroad from the UK is currently not allowed until 17th May at the earliest, and is subject to review. But as it stands, British tourists can visit Cyprus from 1st April ‘with a new system of restrictions’, and from 1st May without any testing or quarantine restrictions if you’ve had the vaccine.
Here, GLAMOUR’s Camilla Newman checks into one of the most stylish and iconic Cypriot hotels, The Annabelle, to discover why this sun-drenched seaside gem should be your first summer holiday spot for 2021…
The Annabelle in Cyprus is the jewel in the Thanos group’s crown of Cypriot hotel properties, and having undergone a $10M reservation in 2018, is now their most luxe offering. I was lucky enough to experience it for myself during last year’s October half term, when the travel bridge with the UK was open and low Covid rates made it a favoured destination.
Who knew travel bridges would be a main consideration for a holiday, but back in October, Cyprus came up top in my search for a few cheeky nights away. At the time, no quarantining was necessary on arrival or return (though for the flight, every passenger needed a negative Covid test within 72 hours of flying). And this summer, Cyprus is set to be one of the first countries we can visit post-lockdown – and travel companies are reporting that bookings are already coming in thick and fast.
I have to admit I have never appreciated a holiday more. Touching down in 28 degrees of heat whilst it was pouring with rain back home and travelling a short 15 minute taxi ride to the hotel from Paphos Airport, I was met with crystal blue waters and an imposing hotel building which was to be my home for the next three nights.
The Annabelle has a stylish, intimate, boutique feel despite being a large scale resort. It’s signature riviera-style blue and white striped decor runs throughout, from interior furnishings to poolside towels giving it an elegant, glamourous feel. The hotel is large enough to offer spacious, luxury dining options across four different restaurants (more on the food later), whilst intimate enough to ensure you feel welcome and embraced like an old friend.
Every room – ranging from small doubles to mega suites with private pools – has sea-facing views punctuated by towering palm trees, and overlook one of three pools: a winding lazy river; a waterfall bedecked hot tub; or large main pool big enough to get some laps in. There’s also a newly-built indoor rooftop pool which is housed within the Wellness Centre and Spa. Totally Insta-worthy and guaranteed to get your zen on.
The Annabelle is perched right on the coastline. Although there isn’t much beach to sit on, there are sun loungers facing the crystal clear, bright blue sea. There, we swam with sea turtles whilst out snorkelling in the warm waters, and you can also hire a kayak or pedalo, or try your hand at more adventurous water sports directly outside of the front of the hotel.
The location is fabulous as you are not isolated within the resort grounds – you can stroll the long promenade which leads you into Paphos Harbour, full of bustling restaurants, bars and luxury yacht excursions. We spent an afternoon deep-sea fishing, but also on offer is diving, 4×4 driving, segway tours of the historical ruins and luxury boat charters. To say there’s plenty of fun memories to be made here is an understatement.
When the biggest decision you have to make on holiday is where to eat, having four dining options within the hotel gives you fantastic selection. Ranging from fine dining to beachside Italian and rooftop international cuisine – as well as an extensive buffet option – the food at The Annabelle was truly top quality.
In fact, fresh seafood, steaks and burgers rivalled any top London restaurant, and as their sister restaurant the Almyra is right next door, you can also tuck into some Japanese sushi for even more variety.
If you’re looking to relax, soak up the sun, feel indulged and pampered with every need catered for, The Annabelle is your answer for a top holiday destination. Borders can’t open quick enough.
Rates at Annabelle from €186 based on two sharing on a B&B basis.
