Spring break...with your dog

Evening on the beach outside our apartment

For a couple of years we've had a short spring break in the west of the island. Last year, while staying in a village in the mountains between Paphos and Polis Chrysochous, we spent some time exploring the Akamas Peninsular and the coast around Latchi. This year we decided to stay on the coast, and found an apartment just outside of Latchi - Amalia Apartments (+357 26 321825)

View of Amalia Apartments from the beach

The website Booking.com states that the Amalia Apartments accept dogs on request, so we phoned to request. Although our experience was extremely positive with this place, I do want to have a small grumble about the 'sizeist' attitude landlords and restaurant owners seem to have when it comes to dogs - we were asked what size our dog was - and I can't see what difference it makes. If you claim to be dog friendly, it should not make a difference what size your dog is. And it doesn't even make sense; if you are concerned about damage, asking what age the dog is more relevant, or perhaps even the breed (although obviously I don't approve of this either).

Master Bedroom in our apartment

Anyway, the landlord met us, and had no problem with our (slightly bigger than average) dog. He was perfectly nice and friendly, and even gave her a quick pat.

The apartment we stayed in was big enough for a family of 5! It was huge. (Plenty of space even for a Great Dane!) There was a large open plan living and dining area, with tv, internet access, comfortable seats etc, as well as fully equipped kitchen. We paid 42€ per night.

Second smaller bedroom with single bed

The external areas were lovely, although not ideal for dog owners.

At the front of the apartments was a small paved area, with pub-garden table and benches. This was a lovely place to sit, and right by the beach too. However, it was not enclosed and there is a fairly busy road between the apartment and the beach. For inquisitive dogs who like to wander off, probably better to sit out the back...

At the front of the apartment

At the back of the apartments was a communal garden area with swimming pool, grassy area, and a sad looking tennis court. I'm not sure how our only neighbours felt about Sage peeing on the grassy lawn. We did try to stop her, but she just couldn't resist it. The landlord didn't tell us any 'rules', but I imagine other guests would not want dogs running around by the pool. Again, this area was open, so a bit hard to contain your dog.

Just next to the apartments was a small area of wasteland that was used for parking, which was very convenient for dog peeing, when we could persuade her away from the grass.

Swimming pool and grassy garden

Living area and kitchen

Outside our apartment

While we were there, during early April, there were hardly any tourists around. Probably it gets more difficult to be there with your dog during the high summer season, but in Spring it is great. There is a sign on the beach outside Amalia Apartments, forbidding dogs to bathe, but not actually forbidding them being on the beach... maybe I'm just being pedantic. But there was nobody around to complain anyway.

It was lovely to open our door and be right on the beach; to be near some amazing places for hiking and exploring, some of the loveliest beaches. I would recommend this area of Cyprus to everyone, and the Amalia Apartments to anyone (with or without a dog) looking for a reasonably priced, self catering apartment by the beach.

Enjoy the mountain village of Panagia... with your dog

Along the main road through the village of Panagia

I chose the village of Panagia for a weekend break due to its location up in the hills north of Paphos, a short drive from Cedar Valley and the Kykkos Monastery, which I wanted to visit. Searching the usual sites for eco-tourism apartments  (https://www.agrotourism.com.cy) I found at least 2 dog-friendly apartments, both of which looked beautiful.

Palati Apartments

We stayed in the Palati Apartments (see previous post http://bit.ly/HrVe9Y) which I fully recommend. Another eco-tourism option at Panagia, the Archontiko tou Meletiou, was fully booked for the period (see the CTO website for contact details and information http://bit.ly/1cJvC2X). I did contact the owners of Archontiko tou Meletiou, however, and they told me that dogs are permitted in their accommodation.

Archontiko tou Meletiou Apartments

Panagia is the birthplace of Archbishop Makarios III, and you can visit his childhood home (next door to the Archontiko Apartments). It was closed when we passed by.

There is not much to do in this village, except sit in one of the many small kafeneia and watch the world go by, or try some of the wine that this region is famous for. When we were there, in late October, there were few people around, and bars and tavernas closed early in the evenings. 

In the restaurant area of the Oniro Hotel

One evening, we tried the restaurant of the only place that was open past 8 in the evening - the Oniro (dream) Hotel. This hotel is located towards the edge of the village beyond the Museum of Cultural Foundation (which houses personal objects and photographs that belonged to Archbishop Makarios III).

I must admit that on a cold autumnal evening, this place seemed a bit dreary. We were the only customers. The huge tv, set on an endless Greek news channel, dominated the restaurant. Very little of the menu was available. And the whole place was lit with strong artificial lighting.

On the other hand, the owners and serving staff were extremely friendly to us and had no problem with us bringing Sage inside while we ate dinner. They explained that they didn't prepare much food in the evenings as there were so few customers, and made a big effort to bring us whatever they could, including some oranges they picked themselves from the gardens. I can't really recommend this place for style or atmosphere, at least for the autumn/winter period, but I can recommend them for their hospitality and for allowing our large dog inside on a cold evening.

Oniro Hotel

This village is a lovely base for exploring Western Cyprus. We spend one long day driving around Cedar Valley and the Western Troodos mountains (see earlier post:  http://bit.ly/1fofsfX), and another long day around Paphos and the coast.

There is so much to see in this area and it's great to have a quiet, mountain base to relax in at the end of a day's exploring.

Finally, there are a couple of mini-markets for provisions in Panagia, and plenty of short dog-walks in and around the village. 

For more info: http://panagiavillage.chooseyourcyprus.com/en/

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A romantic winter break... with your dog

Enjoying the fireplace in our room at Linos Inn, Kakopetria

A week or so back we went for a weekend away at the dog-friendly Linos Inn at Kakopetria. Sage came too, of course.

Linos Inn allows dogs in 4 or 5 of their rooms, while the rest of the rooms are kept dog free. Dog-friendly rooms are slightly separate from the central part of the hotel (with reception, dining room etc), so that non-dog-loving guests are not disturbed. In addition, these rooms are decorated with furry friends in mind - there are no rugs/carpets on the floors, furnishings are kept to a minimum, rooms have access to small external courtyards or balconies.

Linos Inn

Rooms at the Linos Inn are a bit fancier than the typical agro-tourism style places I am used to, but there wasn't actually a big difference in price (around 100€ per night for double room). Anyway, it's nice to treat yourself, and your dog, to a bit of 'luxury accommodation' every now and then.

While I was looking for a hotel or apartment, I had the following criteria in mind:  winter break in a mountain village; cosy and romantic; dogs allowed too.
Linos Inn is located just above the village square in Kakopetria, up in the Troodos mountains. You can choose from a variety of rooms, with or without fire places, with single/double jacuzzi, with/without mountain views etc. It is dog-friendly.

So, ticked all the boxes really.

Dog-friendly bedroom at Linos Inn

Bathroom at Linos Inn

Small courtyard outside room 

Bedroom/sitting room at Linos Inn

A full breakfast of cereal, bacon and eggs, bread and cheese etc. is included in the price. On Friday and Saturday evenings there is live music in the hotel restaurant, and we were advised to book a table as it's a popular restaurant, not just with people staying at the hotel. The food was good, especially the lovely homemade ravioli!

I really enjoyed wandering around the village of Kakopetria too. Many of the houses along the smaller, back roads of the village preserve the traditional Cypriot architectural style, with mud-brick walls and wooden balconies almost touching across the narrow streets. In the evenings, the smell of wood fires really added to the wintery atmosphere.

The village of Kakopetria

Christmas lights at the square in Kakopetria

Just down the road from the Linos Inn, we found some steps down to the river by the Mill Hotel. Pets are not allowed at this hotel. I imagine it would be crowded there by the river during the summer, but when we were there, in mid December, there was nobody around. This was a great place to take Sage for a quick run around, away from traffic. There are also lots of great trails nearby for hiking with your dog, and you can even ski there (at Chionistra) for a few months in winter.

The river by the Mill Hotel

By the Mill Hotel

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Stay in Pafos (or West Cyprus)... with your dog

Taking advantage of Mum's visit to break the rules

I haven't spent much time in Pafos itself, but I really like the surrounding countryside there. I've been to a few of the small villages up in the mountains above Pafos, and stayed in the lovely village of Pano Arkourdaleia with my dog (see my earlier post - http://travelcypruswithyourdog.blogspot.gr/2013/06/chloes-house-pano-akourdalia-pafos.html). I really recommend this area for some of the most picturesque parts of the Cypriot coast, and for the interesting mountain hikes.

Until I get the chance to try out a few of these hotels and apartments for myself, I'll have to rely on reviews and information given on holiday accommodation sites, such as Booking.com. Wherever possible, I have contacted the owners to check their pet-friendly policies. I will update this information as soon as I find the excuse to go and stay at some of these places, with my dog!

I checked prices for the start of September. Prices may vary. This list is not comprehensive, and I would love to hear from any hotel/apartment owner who has a pet-friendly policy (just leave your details in the comment box below).

In Pafos

Unfortunately, I can only verify one hotel in Pafos town itself, from the list of pet-friendly hotels on Booking.com

Agapinor Hotel
The Agapinor is a 3 star hotel, with good reviews. Prices start from 50 Euros for a double room with city view. It's a modern building, with swimming pool, close to the beach.

Booking.com: Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/agapinorhotel.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=paphos-T92uUe_HvYu3EXB5ji%2A%2ArAS12576565341%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;highlighted_facilites=4;srfid=a5f098a273d565a76d7bb78d39ca43328f6751b6X2#availability_target

Website: http://www.agapinorhotel.com.cy/index.html
I received a friendly, positive response from the Agapinor Hotel:

As we are a pet friendly Hotel we could accommodate you and your pet however it would be in a room at the car parking level. The Room is a twin bedded room with of our Hotels usual amenities private bathroom etc, however the view is only of the car park.

Also our pet policy is that the pets are not allowed in the rooms on their own hence avoiding barking of the dog and must be under the supervision of the owners at all times. Also the Pets are not allowed in the dining and public area and pool area but in the lobby supervised.

Around Pafos

Lasa Heights Hotel
This small, family-owned hotel is located 19 km from Paphos, in the mountains, with views of the Akamas Peninsular. Prices start from 70 Euros for double room. The Lasa Heights has received few, but good reviews, and is included in websites promoting eco- and agro-tourism in Cyrpus.

Booking.com: Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/lasa-heights.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=paphos-T92uUe_HvYu3EXB5ji%2A%2ArAS12576565341%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-09-01;checkout=2013-09-02;highlighted_facilites=4;srfid=6fca6d2a1fd9dc2aaeecd2bbb11e8dfdbc5d3f55X8

Website: http://www.lasaheights.com

I received the following short but welcoming reply to my email: 

We do not mind the size of the dog as long is a friendly dog

Elpida's Stone Houses
These beautiful, traditional rentals (with swimming pool) are in the village of Goudi, about 24 km from Pafos town. Prices from 60 Euros per night for a one bedroom apartment. I didn't find any reviews on Booking.com

Booking.com: Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/elpidas-stone-houses.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=paphosT92uUe_HvYu3EXB5ji%2A%2ArAS12576565341%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-09-01;checkout=2013-09-02;highlighted_facilites=4;srfid=6fca6d2a1fd9dc2aaeecd2bbb11e8dfdbc5d3f55X10

Website: http://www.elpida.mycyprusagrotourism.com/#HOME
Although they replied that big dogs are not permitted inside the apartment, I really appreciated that they tried to suggest alternatives, and to be accommodating. This still seems a good option, as long as your dog is happy to sleep outside :

I’m afraid that the dog cannot be hosted inside the apartment; however there is a specific area for each one of the apartments (something like a veranda) where the dog can stay safely. We also have a big area behind the resort (a field) where the dog can play or even be hosted there.

 In some cases where the dog is calm enough and there is no risk to damage any furnitures and is not to hairy we may alow a dog to stay inside the apartment, but a labrador may be too big.

Claim to be pet-friendly on Booking.com, but as I didn't manage to contact them, I can't be sure


Kiniras Hotel
This 3 star hotel looks fabulous from the photos (it's one of the top on my list to try out!). It is a beautifully restored 15th century Venetian building, based in Pafos old town and has easy access to the beach, bars, shops etc. Reviews on Booking.com were mostly pretty good, and prices start from 50 Euros for a (economy) double room.

Booking.com:  Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/kiniras-paphos.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=paphos-T92uUe_HvYu3EXB5ji%2A%2ArAS12576565341%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;highlighted_facilites=4;srfid=a5f098a273d565a76d7bb78d39ca43328f6751b6X1

Hotel website:  http://www.kiniras.cy.net
I didn't receive an answer from this hotel, so recommend you call/email to check before booking


Dora Apartments
These apartments are outside of the town of Pafos, in the village of Kissonerga (9km from the town). Prices start from 60 Euros for a studio. There were only 2 reviews, both quite positive.

Booking.com: Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/dora-apartments.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=paphos-T92uUe_HvYu3EXB5ji%2A%2ArAS12576565341%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-09-01;checkout=2013-09-02;highlighted_facilites=4;srfid=6fca6d2a1fd9dc2aaeecd2bbb11e8dfdbc5d3f55X3

Website: http://www.dora-apartments.com
No email address or contact form on website, so I couldn't check the pet-friendly policy, I recommend you phone to check: Tel: +357 99655867

Sunny Hill Hotel Apartments
Another 3 star, with reasonable prices (from 47 Euros for an apartment with sea view), and good reviews. These apartments are centrally located, and close to the sea

Booking.com: Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/sunny-hill-apartments.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=paphos-T92uUe_HvYu3EXB5ji%2A%2ArAS12576565341%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-09-01;checkout=2013-09-02;highlighted_facilites=4;srfid=6fca6d2a1fd9dc2aaeecd2bbb11e8dfdbc5d3f55X4

Website: http://www.sunnyhill.com.cy
Unfortunately, I received the following response, and I'm not sure it that means that it is not convenient for the particular dates, or for the size of the dog, or just generally it is a problem to have dogs there...

We are very sorry but we are goimg to have problem with our guest staying in our hotel.

Androniki House
This is a beautiful house with traditional architecture. It features on various Agrotourism/Ecotourism sites. Located in the village of Episkopi, it provides the opportunity to enjoy the life of Pafos (10km away), and to escape from the crowds after. Prices start from 60 Euros for a one bedroom apartment, and the reviews are pretty good.

Booking.com: Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable.
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/androniki-house.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=paphos-T92uUe_HvYu3EXB5ji%2A%2ArAS12576565341%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-09-01;checkout=2013-09-02;highlighted_facilites=4;srfid=6fca6d2a1fd9dc2aaeecd2bbb11e8dfdbc5d3f55X5

I didn't find a website, so could not check the pet-friendly policy


Dalia Villa
Dalia Villa is located near to Coral Bay, 12 km from Pafos. I only found one review for this villa, but it was quite good. Prices from 190 Euros per night for a 4 bedroom villa with swimming pool.

Booking.com: Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/dalia-villa.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=paphos-T92uUe_HvYu3EXB5ji%2A%2ArAS12576565341%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-09-01;checkout=2013-09-02;highlighted_facilites=4;srfid=6fca6d2a1fd9dc2aaeecd2bbb11e8dfdbc5d3f55X6

I didn't find a website, so could not check the pet-friendly policy


Pendalia Villa
This 3 bedroom villa has a private swimming pool and mountain views. It is situated about 19km from Pafos. I didn't find any reviews for Pendalia Villa. Prices from 156 Euros per night

Booking.com: Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/pentalia-paphos-villa.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=paphos-T92uUe_HvYu3EXB5ji%2A%2ArAS12576565341%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-09-01;checkout=2013-09-02;highlighted_facilites=4;srfid=6fca6d2a1fd9dc2aaeecd2bbb11e8dfdbc5d3f55X7

I didn't find a website, so could not check the pet-friendly policy


Amarakos Guesthouse
Kato Arkourdalia (pretty far from Paphos, in lovely area). Pretty good reviews. 75 euros for studio (2 adults)
Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges.
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/amarakos-guest-house.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=paphos-T92uUe_HvYu3EXB5ji%2A%2ArAS12576565341%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-09-01;checkout=2013-09-02;highlighted_facilites=4;srfid=6fca6d2a1fd9dc2aaeecd2bbb11e8dfdbc5d3f55X9
Website: http://213.140.200.4/amarakos/index.html


Socrates Apartments
These apartments received very good reviews. They are located in the small town of Polis Chrysochous, near Latsi Beach. Prices from 45 Euros for a one bedroom apartment.

Booking.com: Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/socrates-neo-chorio.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=paphosT92uUe_HvYu3EXB5ji%2A%2ArAS12576565341%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-09-01;checkout=2013-09-02;highlighted_facilites=4;srfid=6fca6d2a1fd9dc2aaeecd2bbb11e8dfdbc5d3f55X11

Website: http://www.socrates-apartments.gr
Unfortunately, no response to my email



Natura Beach Hotel and Villas
This 3 star accommodation is located in the town of Polis Chrysochous, and has received good reviews on Booking.com. Prices start from 100 Euros for a twin room. 

Booking.com: Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/natura-beach-and-villas.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=paphosT92uUe_HvYu3EXB5ji%2A%2ArAS12576565341%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-09-01;checkout=2013-09-02;highlighted_facilites=4;srfid=8215ae547e2442524a49ab57f291c5e30303b893X12

Website: http://www.natura.com.cy/hotel-room-villas
Again, no reply to my email, so I can't say for sure that all pets are permitted

Stay in Nicosia... with your dog

I've been doing some on-line research on pet-friendly hotels in Nicosia. From a list of nearly 40 hotels, the following state that they accept pets, some with possible 'extra charges', some with size restrictions...

I would recommend that anyone looking to stay in a hotel in Nicosia with their dog contact the hotel and tell them the size and breed of dog in advance.

Hotels and studio apartments are listed here in order of price (budget to top end) and it seems that there are dog-friendly hotels to suit every budget.

Just to emphasise - I haven't stayed at these hotels myself, reviews based on those found on Booking.com








Asty Hotel 
This is a 2 star hotel with great reviews. It is located pretty close to the walled city of Nicosia (centre). Prices start from 30 Euros

Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges.

Booking.com general information:
http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/asty-nicosia.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=nicosia-DCZc3%2ALMf5T5kJqS_vXNjQS14123964141%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap140%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1

Asty Hotel website:
http://astyhotel.com/astypages/index.html

I contacted the Asty Hotel and asked whether a Sage-sized dog (lab, 30 kilos) would be allowed. I received a swift response, telling me that all pets are welcome, with a polite and reasonable caution to keep them quiet during the night. They also mentioned that dogs are not permitted in the communal breakfast area - again, I find this very sensible.


Lykavitos Hotel
At the time of writing, this central Nicosia hotel was offering a deal - 49 Euro for studios (normally 56 Euros)

Booking.com:

Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable. 

http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/lykavitos-apartments.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=nicosia-bF%2AUpH0iD2NQdnH4ZYFPuQS14123964141%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap140%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-08-25;checkout=2013-08-26;srfid=ddc5886243010455b2ee3f5fbe1fcaa75715ad4eX23#policies

I didn't find a website for the Lykavitos Hotel (nor contact details), so I couldn't check if their pet-friendly policy applies to dogs of all sizes/breeds, or what the extra charges might be

Lordos Hotel
Lordos Hotel seems a good bet for the lower budget hotels. It is central, prices start from 60 Euros for 1 bedroom apartment, and it has fairly good reviews.
Booking.com:

Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges. 

http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/lordos-apartments.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=nicosia-bF%2AUpH0iD2NQdnH4ZYFPuQS14123964141%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap140%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;srfid=4717f8e4a07a7408fe8d138b3e3c770a15c04b42X17#policies

Website:   http://lordoshotelapartments.com

They responded to my email with a nice, friendly answer:

We are a pet friendly hotel and we accept all sizes of dogs.

Hotel Averof
Another reasonable hotel with good reviews. Hotel Averof is centrally located. Prices from 60 Euros for a double room

Booking.com:
Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable. 

http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/averof-ayios-andreas.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=nicosia-bF%2AUpH0iD2NQdnH4ZYFPuQS14123964141%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap140%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-08-25;checkout=2013-08-26;srfid=ddc5886243010455b2ee3f5fbe1fcaa75715ad4eX20#policies

Website:  http://www.averof.com.cy


The Kapitani Residence
Prices here start from 69 Euros for a one bedroom apartment. These apartments have received good reviews, but are a little far from the centre of Nicosia (2.5km)

Booking.com:
Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable.

http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/nicosia-shortlets.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=nicosia-bF%2AUpH0iD2NQdnH4ZYFPuQS14123964141%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap140%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;checkin=2013-08-25;checkout=2013-08-26;srfid=ddc5886243010455b2ee3f5fbe1fcaa75715ad4eX22#policies

I didn't find a website for the Kapitani Residence apartments, or contact details, so I couldn't check if their pet-friendly policy applies to dogs of all sizes/breeds, or what the extra charges might be



Hotel Hilton Park
This 4 star hotel is a little out of the centre of town. At the time of writing, prices start from 148 Euros
Booking.com states that :

Pets are allowed. Charges may be applicable. 

http://www.booking.com/hotel/cy/hilton-park-nicosia.en-gb.html?aid=303948;label=nicosia-bF%2AUpH0iD2NQdnH4ZYFPuQS14123964141%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap140%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=86efe64d0f36a79ef93e1618b4546322;dcid=1;srfid=4717f8e4a07a7408fe8d138b3e3c770a15c04b42X8

On the Hilton Park website, however, it specifies that service animals are permitted, and SMALL pets. I did not find an email contact to find out how small is 'small'. Nor to ask when or why charges would be applicable...
http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/cyprus/hilton-park-nicosia-NICLEHI/index.html

Don't go camping...with your BIG dog

Right. As with dog beaches, dog-friendly campsites in Cyprus are a bit of a mystery. Campsites in Cyprus generally seem to be a bit of a mystery. I'll tell you what I found out, and you can take it from there.

The website for the Department of Forests, states that there are 5 official campsites in the Republic of Cyprus. It doesn't, however, provide phone numbers or websites. http://www.moa.gov.cy/moa/fd/fd.nsf/22fb7da65c7abdf1c22570580031586b/bb0570cf9d8556c6c2257058003269b8?OpenDocument

These campsites are mostly different from those listed on the Camping.Info website : http://en.camping.info which lists 4 campsites that I did manage to contact (although they have not provided phone numbers or web addresses to this website either).

Finally, on the Cyprus Travel Secrets website (and campsites in Cyprus really are kept secret apparently), I found telephone number for 5 campsites: http://www.cyprus-travel-secrets.com/cyprus-camping.html

Camping with Sage and my nephews, Crete 2011

So I called them all to ask whether dogs were permitted on their campsites. You would think it was a straight forward question wouldn't you?

1 of the campsites from the 5 on the list, Geroskipou Xenon Gardens (Pafos) told me the campsite no longer existed. That's one down.

Polis Beach campsite (near the town of Polis) was the only one that gave me a straight answer - NO, DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED AT THE CAMPSITE. I appreciated this straight answer and the fact that they seem to have a policy on the issue..... Except, I have been there with my dog. We were there in May this year. True, we didn't camp there, we went and ate at the beach bar that belongs to the campsite. However, there were at least 4 or 5 dogs running around the tent area, clearly belonging with campers. I have also read reviews on TripAdvisor complaining that dogs should not be allowed there if their owners don't control them... Perhaps they changed the rules in light of this? Anyway, I called them today, and I was told categorically 'NO'.
Tel: 00 357 26815081

Fegarri Campsite, in Coral Bay, 11km North of Paphos. For a start, this campsite has received such bad reviews, everything I've read has been negative, I'm not sure I want to include this without going to check it out for myself. Anyway, unfortunately I couldn't understand everything I was being told, but the general gist was: How big is your dog? and How long do you want to stay at the campsite for? I tried to communicate the idea that I might not come and stay, I just wanted to know what their policy was. But it kept coming back to the size of the dog, and whether it would be worth their while to say yes. In summary, you might get away with it, especially if your dog is small. Definitely better to phone and check first.
Tel: 00 357 26621534

Governor's Beach Campsite, Kalymnos (between Lemessos and Larnaca). This was a similar conversation to the Fegarri Campsite one. I was asked how big my dog is, what type of dog she is, if she is well behaved (as well as when and for how long we would be staying etc etc). Finally I was told 'YES', as long as I cleaned up after us. I find it reasonable to have rules like 'Only well behaved dogs' and 'Clean up after yourselves'. I can't really see that you can discriminate by size or type of dog. I just wish there was a clear policy, yes or no. Again, I would recommend phoning in advance to check.
Tel: 00 357 25632878

Troodos Camping (2km north of Troodos resort) on the Kakopetria Road - no answer. I'll keep trying.
Tel: 00 357 25420205

In other words... none of the 4 formal campsites could tell me officially that dogs are permitted. They are not permitted at Polis Beach Campsite. Fegarri and Governor's Beach, I don't know, they didn't sound too sure.

Ok, this has nothing to do with camping. This is just a beautiful tree on the Aphrodite Nature Trail, Akamas Peninsular -for your enjoyment

From the same website - Cyprus Travel Secrets - there are 3 further sites mentioned that are not formal campsites, but areas in the Troodos mountains with basic facilities. I think this is more like a hiking/climbing retreat type of deal. If you don't mind roughing it, these might be a better bet.

Stavros Forest Station. Tel: 00 357 26991860
Kampi tou Kalogirou. Tel: 00 357 25422625
Platania. Tel: 00 357 22924225

Of the 3, only 1 answered my call. Stavros Forest Station told me sensibly, and clearly, that they don't have an official policy, but that dogs are permitted if dog and owner behave responsibly. This wasn't said as a kind of concession, or barter (as I felt with the campsites described above), rather an attempt to accommodate everybody.

My opinion, for what it's worth: If you like being out in nature, and don't need lots of facilities (maybe  not even running water...) I'd give the informal campsites a go. It seems like they would be quieter, more relaxing, and you wouldn't have to spend the whole time worrying that your dog is barking or whatever.
If roughing it is not your thing - go for one of the many lovely rent rooms up in the villages and use that as a base to explore.

Stay at the Vouni Lodge... with your dog

Breakfast in the courtyard outside our apartment

I've just got back from a really lovely weekend away at Vouni, in the Lemessos district, and have to tell you about the beautiful apartment that we stayed in. I found the Vouni Lodge from the Responsible Travel website: http://www.responsibletravel.com, actually because I read a review from a previous guest who claimed they had problems with a fellow guest's dog (all the other reviews were extremely positive, I should add). Always on the lookout for dog-friendly hotels and apartments it caught my attention, so I did a bit more research - even negative reviews can bring in customers, see?

Anyway, the Lodge is in a very quiet and peaceful village - Vouni - about 30 km from Lemessos and the lovely coastline around by ancient Kourion, and about 20 km from the Troodos mountains. It is a beautifully restored old stone house, which buffers the extreme temperatures of outside and stayed lovely and cool all through the day. It's a perfect escape from the heat of Cypriot summer. Saying that, we were quite tempted by the idea of a Christmas/wintery stay too, huddling around the fireplace....

Bedroom of the Helena Apartment

Living and kitchen area of the Helena Apartment

There are 3 apartments at the Lodge, two on the ground floor opening onto the courtyard, and one on the upper storey with a large balcony and great views out over the village and surrounding hills.

We stayed in the Helena, which was gorgeous. The owners have put a great effort into keeping the traditional feel of the place, displaying lots of timber and exposed stone throughout the space, and decorating with simple furnishings. On the other hand, all the facilities were new and in good condition - bathroom, kitchen etc, and they have even provided wireless internet!

It really seemed a place to escape to for at least a week (you could even bring your laptop and continue working), and a great base to explore the other  small villages in the area, as well as trips into the Troodos mountains for walking, cycling, nature watching....

And the best part? It is pet-friendly. This is stated on the website. I still checked, and the owners were very accommodating. Reading the Visitors' Book, it seems like quite a few people have brought their pets with them (including a cat!), or otherwise enjoyed adopting the small, friendly stray from the village. But not to put off those who don't have pets - the apartment was spotlessly clean.

As well as the courtyard area which was completely sealed once the gate was closed, there was a small garden for Sage to explore, full of flowers, olive trees and overhanging vines.

In the garden at the Vouni Lodge

This weekend there was nobody else there, so we could relax and let Sage have the run of the place. Inevitably, if there were other guests in the other apartments, we would have had to keep more of an eye on her. The local cats who sunbathe on the balcony are also a minor consideration, depending on your dog.

Prices start from 45E per night if you are staying for a week or more, and I got the feeling it might depend a bit on the season too. We paid 60E per night.

Email: Vouni.Lodge@cytanet.cy

Telephone: +357 22 323385

Mobile: +357 99 685395

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Chloe's House, Pano Akourdalia, Pafos district... with your dog

Traditional oven between our apartment (left) and the main house

I was looking for a picturesque, traditional holiday apartment for a weekend away. Searching on the Cyprus Agrotourism website: (http://www.agrotourism.com.cy), which lists a large number of lovely looking houses, studios, apartments, even spas, in all areas of Cyprus, I found a suitable looking place in a village called Pano Akourdalia, in the Pafos district. A little more searching and I got the phone number of the house owner, and called to ask if I could bring Sage too.

Chloe Stylianou, who rents out the house and studio apartment, immediately put my mind at rest about bringing Sage. We stayed in the smaller apartment, which admittedly does not have the beautiful furniture, traditional wooden four-poster beds with hand woven bed covers, nor traditional Cypriot pottery that the 2 bedroom house does.... but she allowed us all in to the house to have a nose while we were there, and invited us to come and stay there in the future.

Breakfast outside the apartment

Our apartment was very basic. The furniture was old and quirky, in quite an interesting way, although not exactly what you'd consider 'traditional' (for example, matching faded cameo panels on the white wardrobe and matching bed head). Dotted around the terrace were a variety of kitchen containers, now housing slightly sad looking geraniums. Below the terrace was a field of dense vegetation. We had a spider above the bed on the first night that could pretty fairly be called a tarantula - which meant that it took me half an hour to get the courage to go to the bathroom in the night, checking every wall and floor surface...

But in case this all sounds negative, I actually had lovely time. The village was peaceful. The views from the terrace were lovely. The surrounding mountains were beautiful - the drive up to the village from Pafos was spectacular. Built in 1900, and tastefully restored in 1999, the main house looked gorgeous. It was great not to worry too much about tidying up after ourselves (I did sweep, but Sage leaves a trail of black hairs and mud wherever she goes). It really felt like an escape to a place that was comfortable, and was ours.

The apartment had a double bed, a kitchenette, and bathroom. The terrace was shared with residents of the house next door. Sage particularly liked all the outdoor space, the terrace, the field, all enclosed with a sturdy gate. We paid 50E per night for the apartment; the house costs 80E per night and sleeps up to 5 persons.

The village was a bit of a disappointment. We arrived fancying a glass of wine on the terrace, to enjoy the evening light over the fields - but there was no shop in the village. There was nothing much of anything in the village. It seems these villages now survive only for this kind of agrotourism, with very few people managing to live there permanently. There was something called a "Herb Garden" (http://kypros.org/Projects/Laona/), which looked intriguing, with a kafeneio inside - but it was closed whenever we went by.

On the other hand, I loved the area more generally. The nearby village of Kathikas had some lovely places to eat (I'll be writing about that later), the town of Polis was quite inviting, the Akamas Peninsular was fantastic (again, for a later post), the Avakas Gorge was amazing - and all this was reachable within a 15-20 minute drive. After the dry, flat plains of much of southern Cyprus, and the busy, sprawling towns, it was just lovely to be out on winding mountain roads, enjoying the small villages, trees and fields and green spaces of this part of the island. I absolutely recommend it for anyone who likes being out and about in nature, especially if you have a dog.

Sage at Avakas Gorge