Hotel Indigo, Larnaca Cyprus

Judith Baker visits a new boutique hotel in the historic quarter of Larnaca, Cyprus

Hotel Indigo lies down an unassuming street off the main drag in Larnaca. It is probably one of the most surprising buildings in town. The space was once occupied by a pair of 18th-century townhouses in the old quarter, and the entrance still retains their traditional elegance. But the rest of the building, rising for four storeys above the front door, is a dramatic yellow and black chequered modern façade which makes a striking contrast to the surrounding historic area, rich with its Byzantine churches, old squares and workshops.

Inside, the Indigo continues to intrigue. The floors in reception have the original tiles but as I continue my journey I realise that is no ordinary Larnaca hotel. In keeping with the Indigo brand (part of the IHG group), the property is rich in quirky details, strong locally influenced design features and a vibrant colour palette. The hotel opened in April this year and so it has endured a challenging 18 months but so far it has weathered the Covid storm and now attracts a steady stream of European and Middle Eastern guests as well as wedding parties and business groups.

There are 40 rooms at Larnaca’s Indigo. Furniture in the bedrooms is understated with a pared back feel and touches include a pistachio retro telephone and local Cypriot basketwork. The canary yellow panels I saw from the street turn out to be shutters allowing light to flood into the rooms and opening onto balconies from where I look out over the city. The bathrooms are sleek and stylish with rain showers and all rooms have WiFi as well as a workspace and desk. Downstairs there is a 24-hour health and fitness centre for the energetic although I was more drawn to one of the hotel’s best features – its rooftop pool, a stunning sun trap with white sunbeds and parasols and a pool bar. The views from here over Larnaka remind me of Italy with terracotta rooftops, old church bell towers and the sparkling sea in the distance.

In fact, it is only a brisk five-minute walk from Indigo to the Mackenzie Beach and Larnaka’s famous promenade of Foinikoudes Beach. I am told that guests are increasingly using the city as a base to visit the Cypriot mountains and outlying villages as well its beaches, restaurants and historic squares.

On the ground floor is the airy Avli all-day dining restaurant with wooden seating and glass doors looking out to the courtyard. It is a popular spot for brunch at the weekends with its ‘Trilogy’ of eggs among the favourites. Its modern take on Cyprus specialities such as spicy sausage and the ubiquitous halloumi have found a strong following. It’s cool, chic interior with high ceilings and modern vibes make it a refreshing change from the noisy tavernas around the town.

The Oinotelia wine bar has the same clean lines and attracts local and weekend visitors, as well as tourists and, is a lively after work venue. Cyprus wines are becoming increasingly popular and Indigo has an impressive selection. Staff are casually dressed in non-uniform which adds to the personal, non-corporate feel and the boutique atmosphere.

The Hotel Indigo in Larnaca with its blend of the contemporary and the traditional is a breath of fresh air in a city which is quickly growing in popularity.