The Royal Apollonia

The Royal Apollonia reopened in 2013 after a major renovation, which updated the old hotel's decor and maximized views of the sea from the public spaces. The understated lobby's simple design is a bit bland in comparison with neighboring hotels, with just some rustic woodwork to keep things interesting. The woven coverings over candles on the floor are a nice touch, as are the imitation Andy Warhol Marilyn photos on the wall. Outside, a large sundeck wraps around a lagoon-style pool decorated by native trees, along with more exotic Madagascar Palms whose trunks are covered in thorns, but blossom with big white fragrant flowers.

There's not much in the way of entertainment here; don't expect animation teams leading rowdy games by the pool, or lively performances at night. There is a musical duo that performs in the evenings (typically a piano player and singer), which is usually enough to satisfy the the low-key couples who come here. Families might wish for a bit more activity, but the hotel does offer a kids' club and a kiddy pool.

The hotel sits right along a major coastal road on the edge of town. It's a convenient beachfront location within walking distance of coffee shops, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops -- though there are also some strip clubs and cheap souvenir shops nearby that some guests will feel cheapen the ambience. It's closer to downtown Limassol than the resorts that line the wooden beachfront promenade to the east (not walking distance), and there's a bus stop right outside the hotel can take guests directly to the Molos beachfront promenade (the main tourist promenade), Old Port, Limassol Castle, and marina area in about 20 minutes. It's also a 20-minute drive to My Mall, a major shopping center. Notable archaeological sites like Ancient Kourion and the medieval Kolossi Castle are within a 25-minute drive. Larnaca International Airport is a 40-minute drive to the east along the coast, while Paphos International Airport is closer to an hour drive to the west.

The Royal Apollonia's 204 rooms and suites have been given contemporary updates, and are decorated with streamlined light wood veneer furniture, white bedding, and tile floors, which contributes to an airy, beachy feel. Standard rooms are on the small side and many of them do not have sea views. Doubles or twin beds (pushed together) are joined by small sitting areas with a pair of attractive white shell chairs and glass bistro tables. Flat-screen TVs and minibars come standard, but there are fees for Wi-Fi and use of the in-room safes. Bathrooms have shower/tub combos outfitted with both rainfall-style showerheads and handheld showerheads. Sliding glass doors open to small furnished balconies, while Deluxe Spa Rooms get larger balconies that have private hot tubs. Suites add sofa beds and some have kitchenettes with dining tables. 

Rows of loungers are arranged on the beach along the stone breakwall that protects the pool area above, and water sports are available on-site (by an independent operation on the beach). The beach has blackish volcanic sand that is common for Cyprus, and is on the small side. The wide lagoon pool has a swim-up bar (a rare feature for the area) and overlooks the sea from its raised sundeck. There's also a kiddy pool with waterslides and a covered play area. Other children's amenities include a kids' club with supervised activities, and older kids might appreciate the outdoor pool table. Adults will find seven treatment rooms at a spa that has a sauna, steam room, and a climatological Dead Sea therapy room that mimics the climate (temperature and humidity) from the Dead Sea by incorporating natural salts and mud from region. There's also a large indoor pool with a view into the LifeFitness-equipped fitness room. 

A free breakfast buffet is included, and both half-board and all-inclusive rates are available. Themed buffets (with Greek and Cypriot offerings at breakfast) are on the menu at the main Dionysos Restaurant. Cos’altro serves Italian cuisine, while the popular Akakiko Restaurant serves Japanese fare on a covered patio. There's also a pool bar and a cocktail lounge, as well as a seasonal alfresco restaurant on a seaside terrace.