Protaras & Beyond – Sightseeing from Golden Coast Beach Hotel
Protaras is a destination of contrasts: shimmering turquoise bays by day, dramatic cliffs at sunset, and a surrounding region rich in history and culture. Whether you’re drawn to natural wonders, seaside landmarks, or nearby villages steeped in tradition, there is no shortage of discoveries. For travelers staying at the Golden Coast Beach Hotel, one of the finest beachfront hotels in Protaras Cyprus, sightseeing begins right outside your door and stretches across the island.
Fig Tree Bay – A Natural Icon
No list of Protaras sights is complete without Fig Tree Bay, ranked among Europe’s top beaches. Named after the lone fig tree that once shaded its sands, the bay offers crystalline waters and a small islet reachable by swimming or paddleboarding.
During summer, the beach is lively with water sports, but its charm lies in its versatility. Families splash in shallow waters, couples walk hand in hand along the shore, and adventurers set off for snorkeling trips. For guests at Golden Coast Beach Hotel, the bay is only a short drive away, making it a perfect half-day or full-day excursion.
Cape Greco National Forest Park
Just beyond Protaras lies Cape Greco, a protected national park where nature meets mythology. Rugged cliffs drop into sapphire waters, and trails wind through wildflowers and pine forests.
The park’s highlights include:
- Lovers’ Bridge, a natural rock arch beloved by photographers.
- Sea caves, accessible by boat or swim, where turquoise water glows in hidden chambers.
- The Chapel of Agioi Anargyroi, perched above the sea, offering sweeping coastal views.
Hikers and cyclists will find marked trails, while boat tours reveal the coastline from another perspective. For guests of beach hotels in Protaras, Golden Coast offers an ideal base for exploring Cape Greco’s natural majesty.
Blue Lagoon & Turtle Cove
Sightseeing in Protaras doesn’t stop on land. A short boat trip leads to the famous Blue Lagoon, where calm, shallow waters create a postcard-perfect swimming spot. Nearby Turtle Cove offers the chance to snorkel alongside sea turtles in their natural habitat—an unforgettable memory for families and adventurers alike.
Golden Coast’s concierge team can arrange half-day or full-day cruises that include these highlights, often with lunch on board and plenty of time to swim.
Profitis Elias Church – A View from Above
For a different perspective, climb the 300 steps to Profitis Elias Church, a small chapel perched on a rocky hill above Protaras. The reward is a panoramic view of the town, coastline, and surrounding countryside. At sunset, the sight is breathtaking, with the Mediterranean bathed in golden hues.
Guests staying at Golden Coast Beach Hotel, a leading beach hotel in Protaras Cyprus, often combine this stop with a stroll through Protaras town or a visit to nearby cafés.
The Ocean Aquarium
Families will appreciate the Protaras Ocean Aquarium, home to more than 1,000 species—from tropical fish and stingrays to crocodiles and penguins. It’s both educational and entertaining, especially for children.
Located just minutes from Golden Coast, the aquarium is an easy sightseeing option for days when you want variety beyond the beach.
Nearby Villages & Local Life
Sightseeing in Protaras extends into the villages that surround it. Paralimni, the district’s main town, blends tradition with modernity, offering charming squares, churches, and boutique shops. In Dherynia, visitors can explore the Folk Art Museum and learn about rural life in Cyprus through exhibits of tools, costumes, and crafts.
These excursions provide a glimpse into daily Cypriot life beyond the resort, adding cultural depth to a seaside holiday. Staying at one of the best hotels in Protaras Cyprus, Golden Coast makes village visits convenient, with staff able to arrange transfers or guided tours.
Excursions to Famagusta & Beyond
History buffs often take excursions to view Famagusta’s Ghost Town (Varosha), a once-thriving resort area that has stood abandoned since the 1970s. While parts of it remain closed, guided tours offer striking views and context on Cyprus’s modern history.
For those eager to see more of the island, day trips to Nicosia, the divided capital, or Ayia Napa, with its cultural monastery and lively town center, are easily organized. Golden Coast’s location on the southeastern coast makes these journeys accessible while ensuring a relaxing seaside retreat awaits your return.
Golden Coast – Your Sightseeing Base
Why does Golden Coast Beach Hotel stand out among beachfront hotels in Protaras for sightseeing?
- Proximity: Major attractions like Fig Tree Bay, Cape Greco, and Profitis Elias are minutes away.
- Convenience: Tours and excursions can be arranged directly through the hotel.
- Balance: After long days exploring, guests return to pools, spa treatments, and seaside dining.
It’s this balance of exploration and relaxation that makes Golden Coast more than a hotel—it’s the starting point of your Cyprus story.
Conclusion
From shimmering bays to dramatic cliffs, from ancient chapels to lively villages, Protaras offers a rich sightseeing palette. For guests at the Golden Coast Beach Hotel, one of the most inviting beach hotels in Protaras Cyprus, every adventure is within reach. Whether you’re climbing a hilltop church at sunset, snorkeling with turtles, or wandering through village streets, your journey begins and ends at the golden edge of the Mediterranean.
