Pernera in Cyprus is probably not one of the best-known resorts on the east coast, but it is certainly one of the prettiest. Nestled under a hill, this pretty little town has a lot to offer and tourists return year after year. The main street slopes down to the seafront, where there are several sandy bays sheltered by stone outcroppings. These are perfect for bathing and snorkelling in the warm crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean. Being so well sheltered, these bays are ideal for families with small children and there is plenty of shallow water for the little ones to paddle around. At its core, Pernera is first and foremost a beach resort, with the larger hotels facing directly onto the bays. Water sports lovers will have many activities to practice, such as windsurfing and water skiing, to name just a few.
If you fancy a boat trip around Cyprus, Pernera is the place to be with its bustling harbour, you’ll be spoiled for choice. There you can book everything from leisurely cruises to breath-taking jet boat rides. Or maybe you’d rather just kick back and watch the world go by with a nice cold drink. If so, there is a great waterfront cafe right on the Penera harbor where you can enjoy that beautiful view over the Mediterranean ocean. On clear days you can see right across to Famagusta and the Northern Cyprus peninsula. Several organized sea fishing trips also sail from the port for all skill levels, including newbies, so you can even catch your own dinner. If you fancy experiencing the thrill of a real sailing boat, there is a deep sea schooner and a modern catamaran also sailing from Penera.
Both vessels are available for party bookings and the latest trend seems to be floating wedding receptions with a full buffet on board. Speaking of weddings, Cyprus is one of the best places for that romantic beach wedding and Pernera offers several great places where couples can get married. One of the most popular places is the Golden Coast Hotel, overlooking the port of Pernera and facing the beautiful sandy beach. Couples have the option of having the ceremony under an ornate pergola or in the small church on the hotel grounds. The church is located within a beautiful courtyard with an ornamental fountain and well-tended gardens, making it perfect for those small, intimate wedding ceremonies.
There are several great hotels in Pernera of varying classifications up to five star luxury if you wish. If you prefer the freedom of a self-catering holiday, there are also some great apartment complexes scattered throughout the resort. Windmills vacation apartments are perfect for those who want to be right in the heart of it all. The complex has a great restaurant bar and there is good family entertainment every night during the holiday season. All the biggest sporting events are shown on the many widescreen TVs and even the latest movie releases are shown early in the evening so the kids are happy too. Speaking of the little ones, there’s also a pizzeria and southern fried chicken shop in Pernera, so even fast-food enthusiasts will be happy.
Eating in Pernera is a gastronomic delight and the only problem is that you won’t have time to try all the restaurants. There is everything from Chinese to Mexican to traditional Cypriot meze houses. If you like home cooking then Knights pub is a must visit, whether for a full English breakfast or a traditional Sunday lunch and much more. In fact, many visitors to Pernera are so impressed with the food at Knights Pub that they eat there every night of their vacation. Another great restaurant a few meters up the road is Gordon Blue. This friendly family restaurant serves a varied menu of traditional and more exotic dishes at very reasonable prices. With so much to offer tourists, it is no surprise that they return year after year to Pernera in Cyprus.