10 Romantic Ideas for a Honeymoon in Cyprus

A visit to Petra Tou Romiou, also known as Aphrodite’s Rock, is a must-visit on any couple’s trip to Cyprus. The giant rock formation is located on the west coast of the island. According to mythology, it's the birthplace of Aphrodite: the ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty.

Legends aside, the natural setting and clear waters are gorgeous, especially at sunrise when it’s quiet and the morning sun casts a bronze glow over the massive ancient rock. It is possible to swim here, but note the sea can get rough at times.

Get farther away from the crowds and spend the day at a remote beach in Cyprus. Lara Bay on the west coast is a spectacular unspoilt and virtually deserted beach, except for the wild goats, birds and green turtles who lay their eggs in this protected sanctuary. The pristine horseshoe-shaped bay is only accessible by 4x4, and it's recommended that you bring your own shade, food and drink.

The sandy Blue Flag beach of Pachyammos is an idyllic refuge for couples seeking a private stretch of sand to enjoy their day amid tranquil scenery. The beach is an ideal spot to watch the sunset. On the other side of the island, Alaminos Beach is hidden from plain sight and is a paradise for sunseekers. The sandy beach offers several facilities, including sun loungers, beach umbrellas and kiosks selling food and drinks.

Cyprus’ sea caves should top your list if you’re an adventurous couple. Snorkeling in the natural grottoes near the popular resort of Coral Bay during your visit to Cyprus is a great start. With your partner by your side, swim in crystal-clear water, and enjoy the underwater garden teeming with sea life.

To reach the site, you can park right above the caves and take a short walk down a steep hill to the rocks. It’s also possible to walk along the cliffs and find other paths that lead you down to different areas of the caves. Insider tip: go early, before all the scuba diving trips arrive.

Discover Blue Lagoon with your beloved and dive into the clear turquoise-blue waters of one of Cyprus’ most magical spots. Located in the Akamas Peninsula National Park on the north-western tip of Cyprus, the bay offers visitors a bewitching spot to swim and snorkel while admiring unparalleled sea views.

You can experience this paradisiacal place by joining a boat tour or, for a more adventurous trip, rent a 4x4 and make your way along an off-road track to the pretty bay. Though the bay is popular with visitors, it’s wide, so it will never feel overcrowded. During the summer months, some boat companies offer sunset cruises in the bay.

St Hilarion Castle is perched high in the Kyrenia mountain range and is the best-preserved of North Cyprus’ 3 castles. The stone walls, crumbling tower, and fragmented stairways create a dream-like scene plucked straight from a children’s fantasy book. Romantic couples will enjoy exploring the fairytale-like setting.

The historical ruins are easily reached from Kyrenia either by taxi or hired car. From the parking lot, it’s a bit of a steep climb to the top, but the panoramic views over the island are well worth the effort. On a clear day, it’s possible to see the Turkish mainland. Make sure to wear proper shoes and bring sunscreen and sufficient water.

Couples can enjoy a romantic escape to a picturesque vineyard and go wine-tasting. The Cypriot wine industry dates back almost 5,000 years and exploring the wine-growing villages on the island is a fantastic way to discover this ancient tradition. The family-owned Vasilikon Winery in the Paphos region offers outstanding views of the Mediterranean Sea, plus a small museum and restaurant.

You can sample wines produced entirely from indigenous varieties at Vouni Panayia, a winery surrounded by pine forest under the Troodos mountains. The restaurant serves an excellent value-for-money meze on a terrace overlooking lovely scenery. Head to the village of Lemona to explore the sprawling Tsangarides Winery – the hospitable owner greets visitors and invites them on a tour of his winey to show the art of winemaking.

Looking to explore non-touristy Cypriot nature with your partner? Then put on your walking shoes, pack a picnic basket with your favorite fresh local produce, and head to one of the island’s scenic dams. There are over 100 dams and a number of them are equipped with picnic sites offering beautiful views overlooking mountains and valleys.

Xyliatou Dam in Nicosia district is cocooned by a thick pine forest that is accessible via a 4-km-long circular trail. The picnic site in the area is gorgeous – you sit back, nibble on yummy snacks and revel in the soothing nature sounds. The path to reach the idyllic Pera Vasa picnic spot at Arminou Dam is breathtaking and takes you through dense forest.

Couples can spend quality time together and explore the magnificent Cape Greco on the southeast coast. The peninsula park is famous for its untouched nature, clear waters and astounding vistas of the sparkling Mediterranean from sea cliffs. There are many signposted walking trails that weave through landscapes where large open fields, mountains, and cliffs create superb backdrops for taking unforgettable photos.

You don’t have to go hiking to enjoy the scenery. Many points of interest on the peninsula are accessible by car and bicycle. Be sure to take selfies at Kamara tou Koraka, an impressive natural bridge, and the charming whitewashed Ayii Anargyri Chapel that lures couples from far and near to wed on the edge of a cliff.

Couples seeking to experience an ancient, soothing tradition should plan a trip to the 16th-century Hamam Omerye in the heart of Nicosia’s old town. The Turkish bath has been tastefully restored, staying true to its Ottoman-inspired architectural designs and traditional clothing, products, and treatments.

You'll be welcomed with a cup of ginger tea before you are pampered with an extraordinary combination of services and massages from head to toe that will relieve you of any physical or mental fatigue. Couples packages are available, and in this warm oasis with its imposing dome, marble benches and soothing sounds of running water, you'll find serenity.

A walk along the coast in Cyprus is always romantic, particularly at sunset. In the city of Larnaka, the seafront promenade, locally known as the Finikoudes, is the hub of the scene, and a magical place to enjoy an early evening stroll in blissful surroundings.

You’ll pass the small Byzantine Larnaka Fort, the charming marina where you can dream about sleek white yachts, and the beach where you can flop out. There are plenty of cute bars and restaurants to linger, enjoy a drink and people-watch while looking out to a beautiful azure sea.