Move Over, Santorini: Why This Place in Cyprus Has the Med’s Best Sunsets
Ditch the elbow-to-elbow crowds of Oia—Cyprus is serving up front-row sunset views, killer fusion eats, and serious boutique style.
Let’s get one thing straight: Pafos, Cyprus has better sunset viewing than Santorini. That’s according to me. Also ahead of Santa Monica, Cape Cod and Essaouira. Anyone who has sat at Ouzeri with the light going down behind the Paphos castle already knew this. While the self-style influencers in Oia are busy elbowing each other for a tiny sliver of postcard view, you could be lounging by the coast in Cyprus, watching the horizon transform into a private masterclass of fiery colors without selfie sticks intruding.
The best of our sunsets over the Mediterranean are happening now. The sea has had time to warm, the promenade is filling up, and the castle stands tall against an orange and pink sky right before nighttime. But where is the best place to catch the sun setting over this storied corner of the Med? One of our favorite hotels not just in Cyprus but anywhere, the Almyra.
Summer is the time that Almyra is at its best, effortlessly blending sleek, modern style with quintessential coastal chill. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your afternoon lounging by the water and transition seamlessly into an incredible evening. Right now, Notios is open on the pool terrace with its new Japanese–Mediterranean fusion menu and DJ sets every Saturday with the coastline in the backdrop. If you prefer classic seaside dining, Ouzeri continues serving fresh-caught fish meters from the gentl waves.
To top off the summer vibes, this summer the walls at Almyra belong to 17 artists. For the 10th summer in a row they are collaborating with isnotgallery, for a new group art exhibit on display until the 6th of September. You’ll find stunning pieces from Cypriot and international artists, curated by Andros Efstathiou, working in painting, ceramics, sculpture, and more.
When you finally pull yourself away from the hotel, the rest of Pafos offers an incredible backdrop for exploration. A breezy stroll down the bustling harbor promenade takes you right to the iconic 13th-century Pafos Castle guardhouse. History lovers can step back thousands of years at the Kato Pafos Archaeological Park to admire remarkably preserved Roman mosaics, or wander through the hauntingly impressive, subterranean chambers of the Tombs of the Kings carved straight out of solid rock. And if you’re looking for a quick day trip, a scenic drive along the coast brings you to Aphrodite’s Rock, the legendary birthplace of the goddess of love herself.
There’s no need to deal with Greek island traffic jams or overcrowded viewing platforms when you can have a front-row seat to an unbeatable golden hour. Go east and enjoy the warm water, sunlight, and Cypriot hospitality in Pafos—your summer upgrade is waiting.
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