Luxury in the Mediterranean: Parklane, Limassol

Cyprus is a popular holiday destination for many reasons. It’s especially attractive as it boasts relatively comfortable temperatures all year round, making this undeniably beautiful resort a perfect destination for a getaway at any time of the year.

Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Limassol is the perfect picturesque escape where you can truly forget about the stress of everyday life, relax, enjoy good food, admire tropical surroundings and the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.

From the second I stepped into the resort, I felt as though I had walked into a page of a travel brochure. Caught by the opulent surroundings, relaxing music and courteous staff, I felt welcomed and comfortable.

The resort is a short 30-minute drive from Larnaca airport, making it a perfect escape for couples, families, friends or a solo retreat. There’s something for everyone at the 5-star resort - three outdoor pools, a spa, a gym, six restaurants and bars, shopping, plus a dedicated kids pool and play area - all just steps from a Blue Flag beach.

The accommodation

Comfort is everything when you’re on holiday and Parklane did not disappoint with noticeably comfortable bedding, light, airy and spacious rooms, a Nespresso machine, water and a fridge.

Parklane has 222 rooms, 34 suites and 18 villas. The villas, exquisitely designed by Harrods Interiors and decorated with art pieces by Atelier 27 Paris, are surrounded by serene gardens and a private pool.

While the resort is family-friendly, if you prefer, you can book yourself into the adult-only wing where there is also a Lifestyle Suite with a pool.

Dining

Parklane’s dining comes with superior Cypriot hospitality and it’s a gastronomic journey you’re unlikely to forget, with six restaurants all providing a unique and enjoyable experience.

I ate at the upscale French LPM restaurant on my first night. As a vegetarian, I was not sure what to expect, but the staff accommodated me perfectly. If you are planning to go here and have a dietary requirement, let the restaurant know when you make your reservation. The food is fresh and delicious - you will be spoiled.

I also suggest you try the wine and cocktails; add some chic to your dining experience with the Coco Chanel-inspired Letrre à Coco - which comes with a lovely surprise of a special scented note.

You’ll also not want to miss lunch at the picturesque II Teatro, which is simply surrounded by beauty and you’ll be attracted to the beautiful smell of fresh zesty lemons which grow at the resort. It is the perfect tranquil setting for a spot of lunch after a morning at the pool.

And a must try is Nammos - it’s not just food, it is the place to be for entertainment, live music and fun as you take in the sea air and views.

The resort’s own restaurant also hosts a lovely breakfast buffet, with pretty much every craving catered for - you can even enjoy a champagne breakfast if you wish.

And finally, don’t leave without enjoying an afternoon coffee with a view and sunset cocktails at The Gallery where you can really soak up the beautiful surroundings while you relax.

R & R

With three pools to choose from, there is plenty of space for everyone.

Of the three pools, one consists of seawater, plus one is adults only.

The staff kindly set up loungers ready with towels, so you can head down to relax as soon as you want. The only thing you really need to think about here is which book to take with you.

If you want a bit more of a treat, the Kalloni Spa is the perfect place to unwind and relax. I had the opportunity to have a full body massage, where I was able to choose a candle scent, the oil from which is also then used for the massage.

You can also indulge in some Thalassotherapy, unwind in the calming pool or simply let your mind escape while you relax in a private area curtained off, letting you escape all your stresses and truly rejuvenate.

Family time

The kids too can enjoy this resort which has the biggest kids club on the island. The pool with a slide will provide them with endless fun, alongside an outdoor play area.

The resort runs a club for kids - from toddlers to teens, the groups are split into age groups so that they can enjoy the age appropriate activities.

Prices start from €15 per child for half day, plus there is a discount for siblings.

Local culture and activities

If you fancy a day out, the nearby Lefkara Village is worth a visit where you can experience local culture and buy handmade Cypriot goods to take home, too - everything from local sweet treats to silver to linen tablecloths.

And if you’re with a group of friends, ask about the perfume-making activity. I was able to make my own perfume with an experienced perfumer. The nose helped me create my perfect bespoke fragrance, a truly enjoyable and memorable activity. A group of 10 will cost around £25 each.

And of course, you can also indulge in shopping at the resort where you can browse collections from the likes of Dior, Loewe and Off White to name but a few.

Kalpana was a guest at Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Limassol . Rates start from €300 per room, per night .