Imperial Island Resort, set on the sun-drenched coastline of Paphos and fresh from a major transformation, is one of Cyprus' newest hotel openings. After spending several days at this newly reimagined five-star resort, the verdict is clear: it delivers a sophisticated yet family-friendly experience that justifies its premium price tag.
Arrival and First Impressions
Arriving at Imperial Island Resort in the evening, the transition from airport to holiday mode was remarkably swift. Just 19 minutes after leaving Paphos International Airport, I was pulling up outside the resort, which occupies a prime stretch of coastline just outside Paphos Old Town. Stepping into the lobby felt like entering a spa, with soft lighting, warm welcomes, and the subtle scent of essential oils lingering in the air. The atmosphere was sophisticated without being overly formal, instantly putting guests at ease.
Formerly known as the Louis Imperial Beach Hotel, the property has undergone an extensive transformation for summer 2026. Today, it feels polished and contemporary, with a minimalist aesthetic flowing from the lobby through to the rest of the resort.
A Room Designed for Switching Off
The spa-like atmosphere continued in the room. Opening the balcony doors revealed a view across the resort's main pool, with the Mediterranean stretching beyond. By day, the water shimmered beneath the Cypriot sunshine; by evening, it provided a peaceful backdrop. Decorated in soft neutral tones, the room felt calm and elegant. While I personally would have welcomed more colour and texture, the tranquillity was undeniable. An abstract oyster-inspired artwork nodded to the coastal setting, while white linen sheets and plush robes added understated luxury.
The bathroom was stocked with products from French skincare brand Phytomer, whose marine-inspired range uses natural ingredients sourced from the sea. Thoughtful touches, including a coffee machine, a stocked minibar, and vanity kits, made the room feel particularly well-equipped. The room delivered exactly what its design intended: a peaceful place to return to at the end of the day.
A Front-Row Seat to the Mediterranean
While the sea views from my balcony were impressive, exploring the resort revealed everything it has to offer. Stretching along the coastline, the resort makes the most of its Mediterranean backdrop. Palm trees sway between pathways and pools, while landscaped gardens soften the transition between hotel and shoreline. There is no shortage of activities: younger guests have dedicated kids' and teens' clubs, with organised activities running throughout the week. Guests can also use tennis and squash courts or fit in a workout at the gym. As evening falls, entertainment and live performances bring another side of the resort to life.
More Than Your Average Buffet
As a premium all-inclusive resort, food and drink form a major part of the experience, and the hotel excels in this area. The main restaurant serves buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a mix of local and international dishes prepared using quality ingredients. Guests can dine indoors or alfresco overlooking the main pool. The offering evolves throughout the day, with each service bringing different dishes, from fresh honeycomb and full English breakfasts to grilled meats, fish, and lighter options. Throughout my stay, everything was thoughtfully prepared and of a consistently high standard. The service was attentive without ever being intrusive.
Sushi, Burgers, and Sunset Cocktails
While the buffet offers plenty of variety, the resort's speciality restaurants provide a more intimate dining experience. FIKI Japanese Fusion Restaurant was a personal highlight, drawing inspiration from Japanese, Thai, and Korean cuisine. As a British-born Thai, I appreciated the menu's creativity and confidence. Highlights included the sushi, tuna tiradito, and a light tonka crème brûlée topped with coconut foam. Pygmalion puts a premium spin on comfort food; I opted for the bacon and avocado burger with perfectly crisp fries, followed by warm cookie dough and vanilla ice cream that struck the perfect balance of sweetness.
As part of the all-inclusive offering, guests can enjoy an extensive selection of drinks throughout the day. I quickly developed a soft spot for the piña coladas, while Aperol and Limoncello Spritzes became a regular fixture as the sun set over the Mediterranean.
The Spa: A Sanctuary for Slowing Down
The spa feels like a sanctuary within a sanctuary. Complete with a relaxation pool, Jacuzzi, and treatment rooms, it is pleasantly removed from the busier areas of the hotel. A back massage proved a particular highlight, with the therapist tailoring the treatment to my individual needs. Combined with soft music and calming scents, it was the perfect place to unwind.
Is It Worth the Price Tag?
With prices starting from £1,353 per person through easyJet Holidays for seven nights in a Superior Sea View Room, including flights, transfers, luggage, and the all-inclusive package, Imperial Island Resort is undoubtedly a premium holiday option. Yet after several days exploring everything it offers, the price feels justified by the quality of the experience. Perhaps most impressively, the resort manages to appeal to families, couples, and groups alike without losing its sense of sophistication. Between the exceptional food, attentive service, beachfront setting, and thoughtful attention to detail, it feels like the sort of place where nobody has to compromise.
