Interview with Nikki who owns The Roost Relaxation Retreat in Cyprus
Nikki Barrows owns The Roost Relaxation Retreat in Polemi, in the Paphos area of Cyprus. It sleeps 12 people, has a functional summer house in the garden, and a huge private pool - perfect for relaxing in under that fierce Cypriot sunshine. Polemi stands on a plateau in the middle of Paphos' rolling hills, so the villa has a cool climate when its scorching hot in the summer. We caught up with Nikki to ask her why she loves her property and the area of Polemi.
Hi Nikki, tell us a little bit about your property and its location. The Roost is a modern but luxurious villa with 4 en-suite bedrooms and a well-equipped kitchen. The property is set in luscious grounds with stunning hill views, and within the garden is a large pool with roman steps, and a summer house with outdoor kitchen, BBQ area, dining pergola and tranquil sensory garden. The coast is easily accessible by car in three directions, and hills, lakes and forests are also nearby. Secluded but not remote, The Roost is just 1km from a traditional rural village which has all that a renter might need; banks, grocery shops, cafes and taverns, and even has a donkey which is often being ridden. Why do you love the area? I love our villa because it's so convenient for exploring the whole of the western peninsular of Cyprus, and for introducing guests to the traditional, less-touristy aspect of the country. The area is ideal for a restful break or as a base for site-seeing - beaches and historical remains alike. The village has an annual tulip festival and is at the heart of the wine growing region, with several wineries and a micro-brewery, and many excellent yet reasonably priced eateries close by. Who would you recommend this property to? The property is ideal for all age groups who enjoy privacy and space. It is ideal for those who enjoy walking, a relaxing poolside holiday, or to be central and visit all the main attractions of the west of the island. Also the property is ideal for intimate wedding parties as we will provide a free ceremony pergola if required. There is one ground floor bedroom which has a ramp into the garden, so we can also accept guests with limited mobility. The villa is large enough for two families, or three generations, with cots and high chairs available. Talk us through your routine for making sure your property is perfect for your guests when they arrive. First, I take note of the specific room requirements for individual parties and I make sure everywhere is thoroughly clean. Preparing information booklets and supplementary sheets are priorities, as is the welcome food pack. Parties may chose complementary Paphos airport transfers or meet and greet to make their arrival less stressful, and we are happy to assist with carrying cases to rooms. A guided tour is always given with explanations and helpful hints. We will even pre-book restaurants for travel weary guests! There is a direct intercom so that the slightest details may be dealt with as quickly and efficiently as possible, and we are on-hand to help, advise and clean the pool so that guests feel pampered and at home. Finally, give us a recommendation for your favourite local activity. Choosing just one thing to recommend is almost impossible… but for an activity to remember, then try scuba-diving with my daughter at Marine Divers in Coral Bay, where the personal attention will provide a superb experience.