The Best Villas to Rent in Cyprus

The white stone walls surrounding Azurro’s collection of 10 villas are the same height as the thundering waves at neighbouring Lara Beach, yet the interiors of each property are anything but intimidating. Each villa is brightly dressed in Mediterranean colours, and they all come with a winning combination of private pool and outdoor hot tub. Plus, Meleti Forest, with its Byzantine tombs, is close by – and well worth a wander.

Away from the packed stone streets of Paphos Harbour, Kissonerga is the village equivalent of a hammock – ready for you to sink into and unwind. Lined with banana groves, each property is decorated for maximum tranquillity. Think light, spacious marble interiors, rectangular private pools and first-floor terraces with views.

Embedded in the foothills of Akamas National Park, these swish villas promise views over both the tufting treetops and candy-coloured boats bobbing in Latchi Harbour. Glass doors lead out on to a terrace, complete with a huge turquoise pool. If you prefer a dip in saltier waters, then the shores of Polis beach are only a 10-minute stroll downhill.

Despite being 140 metres above sea level, the infinity pools outside most of these stone-washed villas have been designed to look like the ocean lapping against the shore. Dramatic views of surrounding Coral Bay come as standard. You can choose between staying in accommodation for four, or bringing five friends to the temple-like Villa Palati. Details such as free-standing roll top baths, oak four poster beds and outdoor hot tubs seal the deal.

Lording over Pikni Forest, this pair of gigantic villas was designed for up to 16 guests apiece. Panorama is the more rustic of the two, with exposed wooden beams, a pretty bridge arching over the lagoon-like pool and dramatic views of the surrounding valley. Oceania has a polished industrial vibe: think ceiling lights lashed to exposed silver pipes, an infinity pool with sunken silver stools and a wooden roof terrace – the ideal spot for a sundowner.