This summer, I spent a fortnight in Paphos, Cyprus in the vibrant Aliathon Aegean holiday village. This hotel was not only perfect for me, and the relaxing, sunny holiday that I sought, but supposedly the wedding hotspot of 2019. I was pleasantly surprised to have stumbled upon five wedding parties during my stay. I had no idea that Cypriot weddings were so desirable, and that I was staying at the dream Mediterranean wedding location.
THE HOTEL FACILITIES
The four star Aliathon holiday village offers a beautifully rustic and naturally decorated wedding location. The pastel apartment buildings not only offer comfortable living for guests, but a relaxing holiday for them within itself. Whilst the main hotel interior is largely wood, brick and marble, the apartment rooms are far simpler and smaller. The Aliathon hotel lobby is small, but never busy. Making it the perfect brief relaxation place if you’re simply looking for a break from the Cypriot sun.
The holiday village is divided into two parts; one more suited for families and the other for adults. The much larger family resort is busier and open to young children. It’s here that you’ll find the children’s club and evening entertainment. Of course, this part of the hotel is open to all guests. However, if you’re seeking tranquility, it may not be the best place for you.
The smaller side of the hotel is predominantly adults and older children, making it a quieter, more relaxed environment. Whilst the larger side of the hotel is home to the shared facilities, the smaller villiage features its own ever-changing buffet-style restaurant and pool area. This side is far more accessible (due to less crowds), and you never have to battle for a sun-lounger.
The hotel village facilities are spread out across a huge area of land. It features many swimming pools, a spa and large tennis court. Swim up suites are a luxury feature at this hotel, where you can stay in an apartment with a private pool right outside your patio doors. Whilst you can’t avoid the walk to access many hotel facilities, both villages are within a short distance of each other.
There are beautiful views to see between the facilities (and plenty of ramps for accessibility). Across the villages are vibrant flower displays in summer hues, making the the hotel a picture-perfect display of summer romance. Any wedding photographs that are taken here are sure to look magical.
THE HOTEL LOCATION
During my stay, Paphos reached a high of thirty-eight degrees. Whilst this type of heat may sound desirable for a holiday, it was far too hot to stay out in the sun all day. Even the locals agreed! Thankfully, the hotel’s many lounge areas provide comfortable shade, and the air conditioning is always on full blast.
The Aliathon hotel village is a short bus ride away from the Paphos harbour and shopping mall. At the harbour you’ll find an endless amount of restaurants with traditional and global cuisines. Having said that, the stores you’ll come across are the typical tourist type; think fridge magnets and small Aphrodite figurines.
If you’re looking for a more authentic Cyprus, the best towns I came across were slightly further out. You can essentially get around Cyprus solely by busses. Yes, it may take a little longer than a taxi, but it’s affordable and the bus system is very easy to understand. The closest bus station to the Aliathon hotel is located at the Harbour. There, you can grab a bus and head off wherever you’d like. But of course, if you’re in Cyprus for a wedding, you may not have much time to explore the island entirely.
THE APARTMENTS
Whilst the insides of the apartments where fairly basic, the exteriors were far more exciting. With pastel painted walls, and decorated balconies- the Aliathon apartments are the most beautiful aspect of the hotel. This is the perfect hotel for a wedding, as your wedding guests will surely appreciate living in such an exquisite space.
The insides of the apartments are nothing to write home about. It’s all a fairly neutral colour scheme, juxtaposing the outside of the buildings entirely. The sofa in the rooms can be transformed into a sofa bed, and another singular bed can be brought in upon request. It should be noted that there is one bathroom in the smaller village apartments, and a kitchenette. Despite this, you won’t be spending too much time in the rooms anyway, so the aesthetics aren’t too important.
THE DREAM WEDDING LOCATION?
If an exotic Mediterranean wedding is what you’re looking for, the Aliathon holiday village is sure to fulfil your wedding fantasies. It’s certainly a popular choice, and you’ll absolutely get the summery wedding photos that you desire. Despite this, if you aren’t planning on clearing out the entire hotel for your big day, there will be a few strangers looking in on your ceremony.
All in all, the Aliathon Aegean holiday village is spectacular. You’re sure to have a relaxing, vibrant experience- wedding or not.