Elysium

It may take its name from Greek mythology but there’s something almost Byzantine about the arches, columns and honey-coloured stonework of beautiful Elysium. The landmark hotel sits just along the seafront from Paphos Harbour, though is sheltered from the bustle by its gates, walls and spectacular gardens.

There’s a wide choice of rooms, from Deluxe Bedrooms with balconies and Family Maisonettes to Royal Garden Villas with private pools and gardens. There are suites too, ranging from the 66-square-metre Artemis Suite to the two-bedroom Royal Suite, complete with pool, sitting room, private bar and fully equipped office.

The excellent spa offers a wide range of packages and signature treatments, as well as an indoor pool, steam room and sauna, while elsewhere in the grounds are further multi-level pools, tennis courts and a children’s pool and play area.

With five restaurants, two bars and a Parisian-style cafe, diners are spoiled for choice. The Tuscan-inspired cuisine of Ristorante Bacco is especially good, while the open kitchen of Mediterraneo – mere steps from its namesake sea – guarantees a bit of theatre as you wait to be served.

Activities range from aerobics and Pilates to golf, scuba diving and live performances staged at the Orpheus amphitheatre.