European Winter Glow: Cyprus’ Festive Villages Offer Lights, Flavors and Unforgettable Experiences

Cyprus' Christmas villages combine true European charm with authentic Cypriot warmth, courtesy of an excellent initiative by the Cyprus Tourism Office, which has overseen several traditional villages transformed into seasonal celebration centers. The result: a colorful and inviting winter experience that proves you don't need snow to feel the holiday spirit.

We are both together under one umbrella…

In winter, Cyprus takes on the look of a European postcard, full of charm. In recent years, decorated Christmas villages have sprung up across the island, offering visitors a combination of European tradition, a pastoral local atmosphere, and lots of colorful surprises. So I went out to experience firsthand how they celebrate on the beautiful island.

An excellent local food restaurant in Limassol, Sikaminia. Photo: Uri Obrotzki

Village or city? The important thing is that you feel like you're on vacation.

Cyprus at this time of year offers particularly pleasant weather, one that makes the vacation flow naturally and feel luxurious at the same time. The hotels create a holistic experience, with chef-prepared meals in various styles and pampering spas with heated pools, while the shopping avenues featuring luxury brands in Limassol will nicely complement your stay.

Avdokia Stavari, known for preparing the peacock, with Louisa Varkales. Photo: Uri Obrotzki

So leave your dreams behind...

One of the hotels that opened on the island in recent years, City of Dreams, caters to everything most tourists love. First of all, it is close to the mall, within walking distance (yes, there is Zara, Pull & Bear, and other great brands). In addition, the hotel has a luxurious spa with several heated pools that will warm up your vacation even in winter.

City of Dreams Pool with sea sand. Photo: Uri Obrotski

But the highlight is a visit to the hotel's Japanese restaurant, which provides an exciting Asian twist of meticulous dishes with a variety of combinations, flavors, and colors. Breakfast offers a particularly interesting variety of options, with special emphasis on the croissant (just like in France) and a nice selection of local jams. Plus, they offer 5-star service.

A cafe in Lefkada. Photo: Uri Obrotzki

I have a village every day… Hallelujah!

Waking up to a breathtaking view of villages and mountains, I always love visiting Lefkada, a picturesque village packed with galleries and traditional workshops. You will find a handicraft competition, goldsmith and blacksmith galleries, and plenty of cookies readily designed for the holiday. The village is about an hour's drive from Limassol. The small streets are wrapped in golden foliage and holiday decorations.

Aphrodite's cookies in the village of Lefkada. Photo: Uri Obrotzki

A night in the village, a movie-like experience

The Avenue of Lights in the village of Kalopanayiotis and the tall trees are illuminated with holiday lights that can be seen from afar (in my opinion, this is the village with the most beautiful holiday decoration), a row of colorful pavilions offering mulled wine, local sweets, comfort food, and lots of handmade gifts such as soaps, candles or art objects.

Only 20 minutes from the village, you can find a small boutique hotel called Pendeli Resort in the village of Platres, the kind that makes you think you've entered a pleasant romantic scene due to the mesmerizing overview of beautiful mountains and villages, and your very own leaves and evergreens to admire. Just sit by the heated, all-year-round pool and enjoy the hotel's restaurant or the cozy pub, which offers an intimate pastime and a real break from routine.

A real Christmas in the village. Photo: Uri Obrotzky

But overseas without a city is not overseas...

Limassol offers a complete urban experience: designer cafes, quality confectioneries with handmade pastries and chocolates, and a superb coastline to walk or bike along. The harbor hosts many local and international restaurants, designer galleries, and spectacular graffiti that decorates the small streets alongside the main streets. There is also a local, modern market offering a mix of street food, small restaurants, and a warm Cypriot atmosphere. For children, the small amusement park and the Museum of Illusions should provide a few hours of fun (and a few photos for Instagram).

Ferris wheel in Limassol. Photo: Uri Obrotzki

Want to have fun without worrying about the kids?

Parklane Hotel offers a wide variety of activities for children so they can have a great time while you enjoy moments of true peace. The hotel is located on a beautiful stretch of beach, and now, outside the high season, the prices are particularly attractive.

Tip: Don't miss out on a room with a Sea View, it significantly upgrades the experience. The hotel features a heated pool, a pampering spa with special sea treatments, and a fully equipped gym with a sea view.

And the food is no less important, as the hotel has several quality restaurants, including "Namos" (there are several others in the world), and a beachfront pub which promises an evening full of style.

A luxurious pool at Parklane. Photo: Uri Obrotzki

So let's cheer up... the celebrations begin now

Cyprus is known for its local wine. Take a short hike into the mountains, and you will discover a world of boutique wineries, vineyards, and spectacular views. The wineries offer tours and tastings of local wine and cheeses alongside seasonal fruits and handmade jams.

I recommend you visit the “Oenou Yi” winery, located on the mountainside, with a view of vines, forests, and red roofs, and it was an experience worth timing for sunset.

Excellent pastry shop at the City of Dreams Hotel. Photo: Uri Obrotzki

A sea of ​​blue, green and white

So what are you waiting for? Start exploring the new season of Cyprus, a destination with many available weekly flights from a variety of places and excellent prices. 

The writer, a guest of the Cyprus Ministry of Tourism, arrived on a flight operated by Cyprus Airways.