Could the sun-drenched south coast of Cyprus provide the ultimate family-friendly escape? Journalist Lauren Taylor recently embarked on an investigative trip with her four-year-old daughter to uncover whether this Mediterranean gem truly delivers the perfect balance of relaxation, culture and child-friendly entertainment.
Ancient Wonders and Modern Comforts
Stepping onto ancient stones surrounded by towering columns reaching toward the brilliant blue sky, Taylor found herself transported back in time at the archaeological site of Amathus. Dating back to the Iron Age of 1100 BC, this former marketplace (agora) offered a fascinating glimpse into Cyprus's rich history.
"They chose this spot because of the water source," explained her guide David, pointing to where a river once flowed as they explored what were once public bathrooms for men and women. With just a modest €2.50 (£2) entrance fee and no restrictive barriers, the site remains accessible yet remarkably underappreciated compared to better-known attractions like Kourion.
"The site is not getting the recognition it deserves," David lamented, insisting that Amathus represents one of the most important archaeological finds in the region. The ongoing excavations mean new discoveries continue to emerge, with some areas having been underground until just one or two years ago.
Luxury Family Accommodation at Parklane
Their base for this exploration was the Parklane Resort & Spa Limassol, a five-star property belonging to Marriott's Luxury Collection located just five minutes from the ancient site. Positioned conveniently 30 minutes from Larnaca airport and another half-hour from Limassol city, the resort offers easy accessibility while maintaining a sense of secluded luxury.
The accommodation proved particularly well-suited for families, featuring spacious super king rooms with sea views mere moments from a sandy beach. However, the resort's three large outdoor swimming pools became the main attraction, offering so much space that Taylor and her daughter didn't manage to experience them all.
For those occasional windy days common on Cyprus's south coast, the hotel provides a heated indoor pool alongside comprehensive fitness facilities including a well-equipped gym and sauna.
Child-Friendly Facilities That Parents Will Love
The Explorers Kids Club emerged as a game-changer for parental relaxation. With an expansive playground area, bouncy castle and shallow swimming pool complete with a pirate ship featuring slides, the facility kept children entertained for hours.
Parents can choose to accompany their children or pay extra for supervised sessions where staff organise age-appropriate activities ranging from arts and crafts to games and swimming. Twice daily four-hour sessions running mornings and afternoons provide ample opportunity for adults to explore local attractions or simply unwind.
Taylor took advantage of this childcare provision to enjoy the resort's spa facilities, indulging in the 60-minute Kalloni Experience massage which provided perfect recuperation after busy work weeks.
Culinary Delights and Local Exploration
With five restaurants on site, the resort caters to diverse culinary preferences with impressive quality. Lanes restaurant serves extensive buffet breakfasts complete with omelette stations, abundant fresh fruit and even pink champagne.
The dining options showcase international flair, from sushi prepared to order at The Gallery to Cypriot-influenced French cuisine at La Petite Maison. For more casual dining, the poolside Vithos offers tasty lunches in sunny surroundings.
For special occasions, the seafood-focused Nammos provides an unforgettable experience with courtyard tables positioned directly by the sea. Taylor enjoyed grilled squid followed by prawn ravioli in bisque, accompanied by local wine and precious child-free reading time while her daughter participated in pottery painting at the kids club.
Beyond the Resort: Cultural Riches Await
Cyprus's status as the third largest and third most populous Mediterranean island means there's no shortage of cultural experiences beyond the resort gates. The island boasts human activity dating back approximately 13,000 years, with Cypriots proudly celebrating numerous 'firsts' and 'oldests' including the world's oldest perfume factory, largest handmade vase and wine varieties tracing back to 800 BC.
Nearby Limassol offers a bustling business port alongside significant archaeological sites including the Sanctuary of Apollo and ancient Limassol Castle with its attached medieval museum. The city's attractive old town features charming cobblestone streets and overhanging terraces perfect for exploration.
Just 30 minutes' drive inland, the picturesque village of Lefkara showcases lace embroidery and silver craftsmanship traditions preserved from Venetian rule days.
As Taylor discovered, Cyprus successfully combines beach relaxation, guaranteed sunshine and fascinating culture in measures that satisfy both adults and children. For parents who understand the need for a 'holiday from your holiday', this Mediterranean destination might just provide the perfect solution.
Planning your trip: Rooms at Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol (marriott.com) start from €200 (£173) per night, including breakfast. Lauren Taylor's stay was hosted by Parklane.
