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  • Writer's pictureVeronica Smulders

Staying local in Cyprus

Dispersed across the traditional village of Kalopanayiotis, this iconic hideaway Casale Panayiotis is located at the heart of the evergreen mountains of Cyprus in the Marathasa area.


Rooms, suites and other facilities are scattered across different locations in the village. Each maintains its traditional style with contemporary touches making guest feel like part of the original neighbourhood. Complemented with local activities such as visiting an orchad, cooking classes, beekeeping and guided quad rides, to name a few, you will gain a unique insight into the traditional warm and hospitable Cypriot way.


What to expect


You own home in a traditional Cypriot village surrounded by unspoilt nature and warm people.


The arrival


The village is 70 km away from Nicosia and Limassol and is the first village to come across as one enters the Marathasa valley driving up from Nicosia. Kalopanayiotis is one of the 7 villages in the area.

If you come from Paphos, it will take you approximately 90 minutes driving through some impressive scenic vistas.


As you drive through the village’s narrow streets, you will already feel the low-paced yet lively atmosphere of the place. The best location to park is at the monastery (UNESCO sie) right across the reception area. Once you check in, the hotel staff will ensure to transport your luggage from there to your room.


Where to eat


Something we love about the hotel was the variety of dining options scattered across the village, each with its own unique character.


The Bizantino for traditional Cypriot dishes and perfect to enjoy tea and local delicacies.


Pantheon, located uphill, accessible via a glass elevator, is located at a privileged location to enjoy the glamorous sunset. It is also an excellent alternative for casual dining with kids as it serves salads, pizzas, pastas, crepes, etc. This was our favourite choice


The old cinema, operating now as a tavern, is located uphill, accessible via he glass elevator or the charming walk across the village alleys where you can see and interact with the neighbours giving you a real sense of belonging. On Sundays they only serve meze.


Features

As a historical spa village, one of the best features of the hotel is the award-winning spa, Myrianthousa. Equipped with an indoor hydrotherapy pool, sauna, herbal steam room, snow cabin, tropical rain shower and foot baths, it guarantees a couple of hours of unwinding. Other treatments are also offered on request.

In addition, the hotel has a gym and a souvenir shop called Pramatouthkia, selling local products such as body creams, essential oils, jams, etc.


Activities

Several activities are provided by or through the hotel. To name a few:

Village tour – Walk through the streets and get local insights about the most relevant places in this historical village by a local guide

Quad biking – Explore the pine forest and enjoy one of the most beautiful sights of the Cypriot countryside in a 4-hour guided safari tour. This activity can be enjoyed all year round and is also suitable for families.

Orchard tour – Visit one of the local orchards and pick fresh fruit

Beekeeping – Learn about the activity at a local producer of honey



The staff

The local hospitality can be lived from the moment you land in Cyprus and it is consistent throughout your stay. Cypriots are people genuinely kind and giving and it is no different at the hotel. The staff is attentive and willing to share local insights and make recommendations. We were quite delighted by Mariana guiding us on the best activities to do with kids and accommodating to our schedule. Overall, we had a pleasant stay and already we would want to go back for more.


To take into account!

Bring walking shoes to make the best of nature excursions and walk effortlessly through the traditional cobbled stone streets.



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