What's the weather like in Protaras in December
When you arrive in Protaras, Cyprus in December you could be forgiven for thinking you had found a bit of a ghost town. Protaras is primarily a summer hotspot, a purpose-built tourist resort, however that doesn't mean you can't use Protaras as a base during the cooler months, and enjoy the outdoors during what is still a pleasantly warm time of year compared to some other nearby countries.
Temperature
The daily average temperature during December hovers around a mild 14°C, increasing to an average high of up to 18°C, which is certainly warm enough for getting out and about.
Rainfall
The only downside to visiting during December is that it is the wettest month of the year in Protaras, with an average of 80mm of precipitation during the month.
Sunshine Hours
The sun shines for an average 8 hours, which although much shorter than the previous months, is certainly bright and warm when it occurs.
Sea Temperature
Swimming in the Mediterranean Sea is still possible during December, although a little cooler than previous months, at an average of 20°C, with night-time temperatures falling to around 9°C, a comfortable temperature for getting a good night's sleep.
Protaras Hotels for December
Constantinos The Great Beach Hotel is the perfect spot for winter relaxation, with everything you could ever need for a relaxing stay. Right on the beach, with several restaurants to enjoy during your time, this hotel is ever-popular, and open throughout the year. Alternatively Coralli Spa Resort offers total peace and quiet, with many spa treatments to enjoy during this quiet time.
Perhaps you want to spoil yourself completely, in which case booking a private and luxurious Louis Althea Kalamies Luxury Villas is the ideal way forward, or the Flisvos Beach Apartments, right in the centre of town.
Your options for accommodation during December may be limited, but the ones available to you are certainly top draw.
Bars and Restaurants
Finding somewhere to regularly eat and drink in Protaras in December can be a difficult task, because as we have mentioned, most places close for the winter season, in anticipation for April and the re-commencement of summer. That being said, there are a few still open, especially in hotels, such as Constantinos The Great Beach Hotel. Steens is also open for a time during December, with delicious food in huge portions, and a very popular restaurant to boot.
If you head over to Paralimni for the evening, you will find much more in the way of restaurants open at this time of year. Ttappis Tavern is a delicious, authentic choice, with traditional dishes on the menu.
During the Christmas period you might find that hotels open for the day, or at least part of it, but this is very fluid and you will find this out at the time of visiting.
December is not a time for those who don't enjoy their own company, or for anyone who needs constant entertainment to be happy; if however you enjoy peace and serenity, in truly beautiful surroundings, then Protaras in December could certainly be for you.
Things to do in Protaras in December
If you have ever wanted to get out and explore Cyprus then this is the time to do it, when the crowds have gone and the temperatures are lower, and hiring a car is the ideal way to see the passing landscapes and attractions. Head to Larnaca and explore the busy town, with the Church of Saint Lazarus a popular spot to visit. You could go even further and visit Paphos, and the Tomb of the Kings, which is certainly one for history and architecture buffs.
Whilst you're in Larnaca, make sure you check out Larnaca Fort, dating back to 1398, and the famous Larnaca Salt Lake.
If you're into hiking and nature, then the Troodos Mountains in the centre of Cyprus are for you, with the famous highest peak of Mount Olympus a must visit. You can even ski in this region during the winter months, giving you a totally different take on what is thought to be a sun-drenched summer-only island.
Of course, you may want to stay in Protaras itself, and in that case visiting Cape Greco National Forest Park will show you the best nature around the area, with hiking trails to explore. Protaras itself has two walking trails to enjoy, one lasting for around three hours, taking you to the beautiful Profitis Elias Chapel, and another one lasting just under an hour.
Basically, those seeking solace and total rest and relaxation will enjoy the serenity which December in Protaras brings.