The European destination that is warmest in May with 26C highs and ‘wine villages’

AN island city in Europe is one of the best spots for a May holiday, having highs of 26C.

Limassol, a city in Cyprus is a great spot for anyone looking for a sunny break, as well as for wine-lovers and waterpark fans.

5

5

According to 101 holidays, Limassol is the hottest destination in Cyprus during May with average temperatures of 26C and highs of 29C - it's also one of the hottest in Europe.

London's average temperature highs in May are closer to 17C.

Not only that but the chance of rain is less than three per cent, compared to London's 42 per cent.

On the southern coast of Cyprus, Limassol is also known for it's amazing coastline.

One of the favourite sunbathing spots in the city is Kourion Beach.

One visitor said it's their "favourite beach in all of Cyprus" and they've been visiting the island for "over a decade."

Another is Pissouri Beach, which was described on Tripadvisor by one visitor as a "beautiful rustic pebble beach with pristine water."

On the bay is Limassol Salt Lake, which is the largest inland body of water on the island of Cyprus.

It's considered one of the most important wetlands in the Mediterranean region, and attracts thousands of birds during the migration season between Africa and Europe.

Up to 20,000 flamingos spend winter on the lake.

Limassol is also home to Fasouri Watermania Waterpark which has the largest wave pool in the country.

The park that opened in 1999 has 30 different slides and attractions, as well as a lazy river, kids pool and over 2,000 sun loungers.

The park is open from Wednesday through Sunday, with operating hours from 10AM to 6PM.

Tickets for the waterpark are €30 (£25.62) per person over 12 years old €17 (£14.72) per child from 3-11 years old.

Also in the Limassol district is the historical site of Kourion.

Tourists are welcome to explore the archaeological site, that was one of the island's most significant city-kingdoms in ancient times.

It's known for its well-preserved mosaics, a Roman theatre with sea views, and remains of Roman structures.

5

5

Other sites include Kolossi Castle, former Crusader fort on the south-west edge of Kolossi that was originally built in the 13th century.

Limassol is known for its wine production and there's even a route dedicated to it.

The well-established wine route called "Krasochoria of Lemesós" consists of 20 wine villages, of which there are 16 wineries.

Around two dozen varieties are grown, including local ones like white grape, Xynisteri, and red, Mavro.

Zambartas Winery is highly rated on Tripadvisor. The family run winery offers four wine tasting experiences starting at just €7.50 (£6.45) where in 30-minutes you can taste three wines.

To get to Limassol from the UK, travellers can fly into Larnaca International Airport where return flights are around £56.

Taking a similar four and a half hours, Brits can also fly to Paphos Airport, with return flights from £52.

Both airports are around a 50-minutes drive into Limassol.

What is a holiday to Limassol like?

The Sun's Senior Sports Writer Duncan Wright recently visited:

I was in Limassol for a long weekend of sensible sun in “shoulder season”. October through November, and April through May are the best times to make the most of what this island, on the south-eastern edge of Europe, has to offer.

With daytime temperatures hovering around 26C, you can holiday in comfort — whether that is lazing on a sun lounger or exploring the historical city centre.

In summer, temperatures are regularly ten or more degrees higher, making it uncomfortable to do anything but spend time near your air-conditioned hotel or villa.

The base for my trip was fit for a king. The Royal Apollonia, ideally located on the shoreline of Limassol, is close enough to the old town and marina to enjoy those attractions, but far enough away that the beach it backs on to is pretty much your own.

Plenty of bars and restaurants along the seafront offer daytime deals to eat and drink for between 10 and 12 euros. Eating out at night costs similar to UK prices, but most hotels now come with dinner plans included and the Apollonia was no different.

The main restaurant was buffet style, with daily themes such as carvery, Italian or Mediterranean, always with plenty of choice, including an opportunity to sample local cuisine every night.

Special mention has to go to the hotel’s two a la carte restaurants. Meze offers traditional Cypriot and Greek food with a modern twist — a meal for two with a bottle of wine is around £75.

Then there is Akakiko, with Japanese cuisine ranging from sushi to meat dishes. Here, the prawn tempura was to die for, and if you’ve ever tasted a better duck ramen, I want to know where.

On the way back, stop at the Ktima Christoudia winery, one of dozens of vineyards on the island. You will see wine being produced and get the chance to taste it once the tour is complete.

We discovered hundreds of kid-friendly activities in Cyprus - including halloumi workshops.

And the hotel on the island is so popular, it's loved by pop star Shakira.

5