In October, I was lucky enough to spend eight nights at the beautiful 5-star Columbia Beach Resort, tucked away in the peaceful surroundings of Pissouri Bay, Cyprus. Having visited different areas of the island before, I particularly enjoyed discovering this quieter corner of Cyprus, which felt wonderfully relaxed and authentic.
From the moment I arrived, the resort made an impression. Built to resemble a traditional Cypriot village, it has a real sense of character, with stone pathways, pretty courtyards and beautiful architecture throughout. The centrepiece is undoubtedly the spectacular 80-metre lagoon-style swimming pool, complete with a swim-up bar, which quickly became one of my favourite spots to unwind!
During my stay, I was based in an Executive Suite with a garden view. Like all the accommodation at the resort, it was incredibly spacious and comfortable. I also had the opportunity to view some of the other suite categories, and I was impressed by the variety on offer, whether overlooking the gardens, pool or sea.
Food is always an important part of any holiday, and Columbia Beach Resort certainly didn’t disappoint. With six bars and four restaurants, there was plenty of choice, and every meal we enjoyed was excellent. One of the things I loved most was dining outdoors and making the most of the lovely surroundings, whether overlooking the beautifully maintained gardens, the gorgeous pool or the Mediterranean Sea. For those who enjoy exploring local restaurants, there are also some excellent choices nearby, either within walking distance or a short taxi ride away in the pretty village of Pissouri.
Having stayed in Paphos earlier in the year, I really appreciated how different this part of Cyprus felt. Pissouri has retained a more traditional, laid-back atmosphere and is less commercialised, making it ideal for anyone seeking a slower pace and a more authentic experience.
The resort’s award-winning Hébe Spa is another highlight. It offers a wonderfully tranquil environment, complete with indoor pool, expert therapists and a range of treatments designed to help guests completely switch off. I particularly loved the clever design of the indoor pool area, where the doors open up during the warmer months, allowing guests to swim straight out into the resort’s beautiful lagoon pool.
Families are very well catered for too, with dedicated children’s clubs and activities designed for a range of ages, making it a great option for multi-generational holidays as well as couples’ escapes.
The beach itself is pebbly, which helps with the crystal-clear water that Cyprus is famous for. Comfortable loungers are available for guests, along with attentive service from the nearby Poseidon Beach Bar. One feature that really stood out was the QR code ordering system. Drinks ordered from the comfort of your sunbed arrived incredibly quickly, something that genuinely impressed me throughout the stay.
What I loved most about Columbia Beach Resort wasn’t just the spacious accommodation, excellent food or friendly service. It was the overall atmosphere. The thoughtful architecture, beautiful grounds and peaceful setting genuinely made it feel as though I was staying in a traditional Cypriot village rather than a resort. It’s the kind of place where it’s easy to slow down, switch off and truly relax.
For anyone looking for a luxurious yet authentic Cyprus escape, Columbia Beach Resort is certainly somewhere I would happily recommend, and I very much hope to return one day.
