At the turn of 2025 and 2026, we decided to swap Central European winter for a Mediterranean atmosphere and headed to Cyprus. Our trip lasted from 21 December 2025 to 3 January 2026, meaning we spent not only Christmas but also New Year’s Eve and the first days of the new year on the island. We stayed at Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort in Pegeia (Peyia), from where we explored mainly the western part of Cyprus – a region full of dramatic coastlines, history, tranquillity and surprisingly lush nature.
The luxury resort in Pegeia became our home for the entire two weeks. Its seafront location, modern architecture and peaceful setting away from major tourist centres made it an ideal place for a winter stay. The weather in December and January was pleasantly mild – perfect for excursions, coastal walks and discovering beaches without the crowds.
In winter, western Cyprus feels authentic and calm. Locals go about their everyday lives, tourists are few and far between, and the landscape has a completely different atmosphere compared to the summer season.
One of the main destinations of our trips was the city of Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walks around the city took us to iconic landmarks such as Paphos Lighthouse, offering beautiful views over the coastline and archaeological area, and Paphos Castle, the historic fortress at the edge of the harbour.
Even in winter, the harbour in Paphos feels lively yet not overcrowded. Cafés and restaurants were open, Christmas decorations added a festive touch, and the combination of winter sunshine and the sea created a very pleasant setting.
A welcome change of pace was a visit to Paphos Bird and Animal Park, located just outside the city. The park is home to many species of birds, exotic animals and domestic species. Thanks to the winter season, the park was quiet, with no queues and plenty of space to explore at a relaxed pace. It is an enjoyable stop for families with children as well as for adults.
Western Cyprus impressed us above all with its wild nature. We visited the Stone Arcade Sea Caves, where the sea has carved dramatic arches and caves into the rock over thousands of years. Nearby lies the iconic Edro III Shipwreck, which looks especially photogenic in winter, when the waves are stronger and the area is almost deserted.
This stretch of coastline is ideal for short walks, photography and simply watching the sea, which has a very different character here compared to calm sandy beaches.
We experienced the Christmas atmosphere, for example, at the Christmas markets near Agios Georgios Church. Although Cypriot Christmas differs from Central European traditions, it has its own charm – less grand, more community-focused, with an emphasis on togetherness, lights and local customs.
Spending Christmas by the sea, with palm trees and spring-like temperatures, was a refreshing change and a pleasantly calm experience.
One of the most beautiful places on our trip was also a visit the Holy Monastery of Saint Neophytos the Recluse near Tala. Set into a rocky hillside, the monastery feels peaceful and almost meditative. The surrounding landscape offers beautiful views and provides a striking contrast to the coastal areas.
These inland trips highlighted just how diverse western Cyprus is – from the sea to a more hilly, greener countryside.
We also travelled further north to the area of Polis Chrysochous, a small town with a relaxed atmosphere. It is an ideal place for a slower pace of life, leisurely walks and sitting by the sea.
Nearby lies Androlykou Park, which impressed us with its natural scenery and tranquillity. This part of the island feels less touristy and more genuinely local.
During our stay, we visited a number of beaches, each with its own character: Kafizis, Olive Tree Beach, Ektoras Beach, Toxeftra Beach, White River Beach and the more well-known Coral Bay. In winter, the beaches are almost empty, making them ideal for long walks, shell collecting and watching the sea.
Swimming was more for the hardy, but the atmosphere of beaches without sunbeds and noisy beach bars felt all the more authentic.
New Year’s Eve in Cyprus was calmer than in busy European capitals. There were no mass celebrations – instead, a more intimate atmosphere with dinner, sea views and fireworks in the distance. Welcoming the new year in a warmer climate, with the sound of waves rather than frost, was a very pleasant way to end 2025.
A winter stay in western Cyprus showed us a completely different side of the island – calm, authentic and close to nature. The combination of history, scenery, the sea and the festive atmosphere of Christmas and New Year created an unforgettable experience.
For anyone looking to escape winter while avoiding crowds, Cyprus in winter is an excellent choice. The western part of the island, especially the area around Paphos and Pegeia, offers an ideal balance between exploration and relaxation.

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