Grand hotels that contain glittering casinos are generally associated with the bright lights of Las Vegas. But City of Dreams Mediterranean is turning this stereotype on its head, writes Harriet Shephard. 

The first destination in Europe to offer both a premium hotel and a casino experience, it’s rather an unexpected find amongst the ancient hill villages and quaint seaside towns of southern Cyprus. 

But, for those of you thinking that an integrated hotel/casino means a party vibe and sleepless nights, let me put your mind at ease. 

City of Dreams Mediterranean is a beautiful, comfortable, and elegant hotel, and it surprised me in all the best ways.

Although the central casino is directly accessible from the lobby, avoiding it altogether is just as easy, too. 

Self-contained in the middle of the hotel, it doesn’t intrude at all upon the enjoyment of families and other guests who are not interested in the many slot machines and games. It adds to the destination’s appeal, but it by no means dominates it.

Indeed, we all know that some five-star hotels in other regions don’t quite match up to the standards we are used to in the Middle East. But this luxe hotel easily exceeds every expectation. 

My Junior Family Suite was absolutely enormous, and I loved looking out from the sweeping balcony at the blue Mediterranean Sea in the distance. The plush bed, vast bathroom, walk in wardrobe, and many comfortable seating areas completed the set up perfectly, while the small additions - including the iPhone charging dock, free boxes of sweets and nibbles, and amazing citrus-infused Natura Bisse toiletries – elevated it even further. 

Modern and sleek, those with a taste for the finer things can also splash out on a stay in the Panoramic Suites that sleep up to six. As the name suggests, the long balconies treat you to 360-degree views, including as far as Limassol Salt Lake (famous for its flocks of greater flamingos during the winter months), and the Troodos mountains, the largest mountain range in Cyprus. 

These stunning suites are only outdone by the exclusive rooftop Prestige Suite (completed with private infinity pool and terrace dining area), and the two-floor Presidential Suite, providing all the luxuries of the aforementioned accommodation, plus a private fitness suite, and over 400m2 of living space.

RESTAURANTS  

While the island’s warm summer months see guests gather to dine al fresco on one of the hotel’s many terraces, the intricately designed restaurant dining rooms are also delightful places to feast and socialise.

ANAIS – Chic and stylish Anais specialises in modern French cuisine. Spanning platters of plump oysters on ice, fresh sea bass, crispy salads made with vegetables from the onsite farm, premium quality meats and much more, the ever-changing menu of creative cocktails adds to the allure, while the staff are incredibly charming, too.

PRIME STEAKHOUSE – Dimmy lit and edgy, Prime Steakhouse is the place to take those who you really want to impress. Serving the finest meats from across the globe, served with a choice of succulent sides and fresh lobsters and seafood, it scores 10/10 for ambiance and elegance in every sense.

AMBER DRAGON – Another gastronomic destination with a strong and well executed theme, Amber Dragon bring Chinese and Japanese specialties to the forefront, presenting everything from authentic maki rolls to tasty steamed dim sum, fresh sashimi, and more. Whatever you do, don’t let your guests miss its signature specialty: wood-fired Peking duck prepared at the table with theatrical flair.

AURA – Far more classy and cosy than your average all-day-dining, Aura invites your clients to sink into one of the soft cushioned booths and indulge in one of the most extravagant breakfasts of their lives. Featuring local products such as juicy olives, organic honeys, thick and creamy Greek yoghurt, served alongside freshly made pastries, eggs cooked to order and all the fresh fruits you could ever want, it’s not an experience to rush. Despite the fact that the hotel holds 500 rooms and suites, it never felt overly crowded or packed. Encourage your clients to wake up early and maximise every moment.

MEETINGS & CELEBRATIONS

A 50-minute drive from Larnaca airport and 40 minutes from Paphos, there are few better places to host a meeting or conference in Cyprus than this lavish hotel. 

Home to the Forum, the island’s largest expo centre, and a grand ballroom that can accommodate up to 880 seated guests, concerts from big-name international artists and global conferences are regularly hosted here, while the bright and airy meeting rooms can seat between 10 and 100 people, and the outdoor area is ideal for weddings and seasonal celebrations, too.

FACILITIES

While it was a little too cold to test out the outdoor pools when I visited in November, the rest of the year brings perfect weather for sunbathing and swimming. Offering four pool areas – including a ‘Beach Pool’ that’s rimmed by real sand, a swim-up pool bar, an indoor heated pool, and even a surf simulator Waverider - it’s the biggest pool complex in Cyprus by far.

If your clients desire some pampering during their stay, I can honestly say that the massage I received at the onsite Renu Spa was one of the best I’ve ever had.

The changing rooms come complete with sauna and steam rooms, and the huge array of machines and the equipment in the incredibly large and swish gym would impress even the most committed fitness fanatic or sports professional.

For active types, there’s also an onsite tennis academy with 12 state-of-the-art courts, while children and teens can enjoy practically a whole adventure theme park – including a zip line, ropes course, climbing walls, trampolines and more – all within the hotel grounds. 

As mentioned above, adults have a whole casino to play with. Open 24 hours a day, it’s filled with slot machines, table games and a dedicated poker area. Live musicians and performers set the mood with nightly entertainment from the central stage, while the VIP member’s-only Platinum Club area offers a more luxurious gaming experience.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

For me, one of the best things about City of Dreams Mediterranean is its close proximity to the city of Limassol.

Just a five-minute drive away is the gorgeous Limassol Marina. Lined with yachts, blue waters and cafe terraces, the boardwalks are a lovely setting for a relaxing walk, while the historical centre is filled with cultural gems. The centuries-old Limassol castle provided a fascinating glimpse into the island’s history, while the lively narrow streets were filled with character and tempting bars, boutiques, and places to pause and sample local cuisine. 

If your clients have more time to play with, history enthusiasts will be in their element touring the ruins and grand amphitheatre of the nearby Kourion archaeological site, and Kolossi castle, a formidable structure that was once a Crusader stronghold.

Taking a drive up into the mountains to visit the village of Omodos is another must.

A charming and idyllic settlement, the cobbled streets of Omodos are littered with pretty cafes and restaurants, while its star attraction is the Monastery of the Holy Cross, said to contain a piece of the actual cross that Jesus was nailed to.

The hills that surround the village are renowned for producing exceptional wine, and many of the local family-run vineyards offer tours and tastings that are sure to add an extra dose of fun to any trip.