Discover authentic Cyprus in the heart of the ancient mountain village of Bellapais. At the romantic Bellapais Gardens you check in to a unique experience in enchanting surroundings. The family-run boutique hotel is located on a beautiful hillside blessed by natural beauty just below the historic ruins of Bellapais Abbey.
This is a destination for bon vivants and the creative soul. Cool off with an ice-cold lemonade in the shade of palm leaves next to the swimming pool’s sparkling water. Enjoy views of the sea and dream away to the sound of birdsong. The hotel part consists of nine cabins and eight studio apartments, all of which are beautifully set amongst orange and lemon plantations in the lush green garden.
The hotel is located in the heart of Bellapais and here one can easily take a walk along the mountain village of winding streets where history echoes between the walls of houses flooded by purple bougainvillaea. One is easily amazed by the beauty of the picturesque alleys and the southern European architecture that has been allowed to emerge for several centuries. Here, where time stands still and the bees are buzzing among the sweet-smelling citrus flowers, one finds serenity and oneself. No wonder the writer Lawrence Durrell found his inspiration here to write his famous classic Bitter Lemons. Just blocks from Bellapais Gardens, you can visit the house he lived in during his years in Cyprus.
When Sabri Abit established the hotel thirty years ago it was with the vision to create something truly unique. For several years he had been working with tourism in Germany and the dream was to be able to show foreign guests Cyprus’ genuine charm and hospitality. With Bellapais Gardens, he has managed to reflect the island’s true beauty, and like the rest of the village the hotel breathes art, culture and history. Today he runs it together with his nephews Erkan and Selim Abit, two enthusiasts who continue to develop the dream and passion for sharing the Cypriot lifestyle to its guests.
Bellapais Gardens is a well known name for us who live in North Cyprus. The hotel namely has a restaurant often referred to as the very best when it comes to “fine dining” on the island. One of the brothers, Selim, is head chef, and his food attracts visitors from near and far who come to enjoy the culinary delights cooked with inspiration from the traditional cuisine. Many of the guests come to taste the award-winning fish dish Sultanahmet Fish, which among other things is mentioned on the Lonely Planet. A sommelier is on hand to guide guests to the perfect wine for the meal. Bellapais Gardens also has its own wine of the variety cabernet sauvignon that is manufactured from its own vineyard. In the kitchen garden the gardener reaps daily organic fruit and vegetables, including asparagus, dates and oranges, which then is used in cooking. The restaurant is a member of The Slow Food Association.
The brothers Selim and Erkan are very keen that guests get the very best experience when they come to Bellapais Gardens restaurant, they want guests to be treated as if they were gods, and the service is therefore of absolutely top class. The high quality food and service, combined with the Cypriot hospitality, allows you to quickly fall in love with Bellapais Gardens. It is a perfect restaurant to visit with someone you like and to just enjoy the atmosphere and flavours. On weekends guests are treated to classical piano music and singing. The restaurant also has a spectacular view of the harbour town of Kyrenia and the Mediterranean Sea.
Bellapais Gardens has many repeat guests who love being able to stay so close to nature and history. The hotel organises regular painting classes and hiking excursions in the mountains. The classes in gourmet cooking are very popular. Then, participants accompany the chef to Kyrenia’s vegetable market where you together choose the ingredients that you prepare in the restaurant kitchen while tasting a variety of wines.
At Bellapais Gardens, you will find the harmony of the local culture, nature and people. Be fascinated by the local cuisine and wines, and enjoy the glorious sunshine of Cyprus. Welcome!
Contact Details:
Telephone: +90 392 815 60 66
www.bellapaisgardens.com
Bellapais Gardens on Facebook.