If you don't fancy the idea of a long-haul honeymoon, this picturesque Mediterranean destination makes a gorgeous gataway.

As birthplace of Aphrodite, goddess of love, nowhere is better suited for romantic retreats than Cyprus. The island is blessed with stunning natural scenery, golden beaches, clear blue seas, year-round sunshine and some of the most luxurious resorts in Europe, making it the perfect setting for declarations of love.

Marc Antony added to its glamour by giving the island to Cleopatra as a token of his love and compared Cyprus' world-renowned wine, Commandaria, to the sweetness of her kisses. For all visitors the island boasts many charms and plenty to fall in love with. Enjoy the delicious traditional food, discover history and heritage, pamper at one of the world-class spas or hike, bike and tee off.

The island is ideal for weddings and honeymoons and for any future royal nuptials it already has the royal seal of approval, as the only foreign country to have hosted an English royal wedding. Richard the Lionheart married Queen Berengaria of Navarre at Limassol Medieval Castle and crowned her Queen of England.

For a little slice of honeymoon bliss, head to the luxurious Azia Resort and Spa in Paphos. The resort, one of only a few with a west-facing outlook, combines three top hotels within its stunning grounds - The Azia Blue, The Azia Club and Spa, and The Residence. The Azia Resort provides guests with a sublime view of blazing, indescribable sunsets. Built as three different sections on adjacent grounds, with plethora of magnificent spaces for carefree living, the resort has all the diversity to keep newlyweds contented for a week or longer. Each element of the three-in-one boutique hotel concept has its own character and fulfills different aspirations of the visitor. The Azia Blue is about sophisticated, spacious living. The Azia Club and Spa is ideal for privacy and indulgence, while The Residence is a haven of individual pampering and innovative style.

The Azia Resort offers newlyweds an excellent honeymoon package, designed for two people sharing, for seven nights. It includes seven nights in a king size double bedded Club Skylight Junior suite with Jacuzzi, rich buffet breakfast, welcome drink upon arrival, VIP check-in in the room, local Champagne in room upon arrival, one Candlelit dinner for two and transfer in private taxi from Paphos International Airport. Prices, which vary according to the time of the year, can be found at www.aziaresort.com.

The romantic location and nature of the hotel, together with the traditional greek chapel, make The Azia an ideal venue for weddings. The hotel provides dedicated function staff and tailor-made packages, guarantying you an unforgettable, dream wedding. Civil wedding ceremonies now take place inside the grounds of the hotel. For more information about wedding packages, visit www.aziaresort.com.

While in Cyprus follow Aphrodite's trail, visiting sites such as Petra Tou Romiou, the sea boulder where Queen Berengaria of Navarre emerged and the sanctuary built in her honour in Kouklia dating from the 12th century BC. Explore Paphos, her favoured playground and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then head for the unspoiled Akamas Peninsular. Start the exploration of this beautiful area by walking to the legendary Baths of Aphrodite. Legend has it that anyone who takes a dip may also enjoy the secret of eternal youth!

For further information about Cyprus, visit www.visitcyprus.com or call the Cyprus Tourism Organisation on 020 7569 8800.

The article Honeymoon bliss on Aphrodite's island originally appeared on 999 Today