Set on the sun-drenched coastline of Paphos and fresh from a major transformation, Imperial Island Resort is one of Cyprus' newest hotel openings. I spent several days discovering whether this newly reimagined five-star resort lives up to the hype.08:31, 06 Jul 2026I stayed at Cyprus' newest luxury family-friendly resort Arriving at Imperial Island Resort in the evening, I was ready to embrace holiday mode - ideally with an Aperol Spritz in hand.‌Thankfully, there wasn't much time between touching down and checking in. Just 19 minutes after leaving Paphos International Airport, I was pulling up outside the resort, which occupies a prime stretch of coastline just outside Paphos Old Town.‌Stepping into the lobby felt a little like entering a spa. With soft lighting, warm welcomes and the subtle scent of essential oils lingering in the air, it felt as though someone had quietly pressed pause on the outside world. The atmosphere was sophisticated without being overly formal - the sort of place that instantly makes you feel at ease, whether you're heading for a cocktail or an early night.‌Formerly known as the Louis Imperial Beach Hotel, the property has undergone an extensive transformation for summer 2026. Today, it feels polished and contemporary, with a minimalist aesthetic that flows from the lobby through to the rest of the resort.‌A room designed for switching offThe spa-like atmosphere that greeted me in the lobby continued as soon as I stepped into my room.Opening the balcony doors revealed a view across the resort's main pool, with the Mediterranean stretching out beyond it. By day, the water shimmered beneath the Cypriot sunshine; by evening, it provided a peaceful backdrop as guests drifted between dinner, drinks and an evening stroll along the seafront.Decorated in soft neutral tones, the room felt calm and elegant. While I personally would have welcomed a little more colour and texture, there was no denying the sense of tranquillity it created. An abstract oyster-inspired artwork nodded to the resort’s coastal setting, while white linen sheets and plush robes added to the sense of understated luxury.‌The bathroom was stocked with products from French skincare brand Phytomer, whose marine-inspired range is formulated using natural ingredients sourced from the sea. Thoughtful touches, including a coffee machine, a stocked minibar and vanity kits, helped the room feel particularly well-equipped, while the products' fresh fragrance reinforced the calming atmosphere that seemed to run throughout the resort. Ultimately, the room delivered exactly what its design intended to achieve: a peaceful place to return to at the end of the day.A front-row seat to the MediterraneanWhile the sea views from my balcony were impressive, it was only when I began exploring the resort that I fully appreciated everything it had to offer.‌Stretching along the coastline, the resort makes the most of its Mediterranean backdrop. Palm trees sway between pathways and pools, while landscaped gardens soften the transition between the hotel and the shoreline beyond.There is certainly no shortage of things to do. Younger guests have dedicated kids' and teens' clubs, while organised activities run throughout the week. Beyond the pools, guests can make use of the tennis and squash courts or fit in a workout at the gym. As evening falls, entertainment and live performances bring another side of the resort to life.‌More than your average buffetAs a premium all-inclusive resort, food and drink form a major part of the experience - and it's an area where the hotel excels.The main restaurant serves buffet-style breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a mix of local and international dishes prepared using quality ingredients. Guests can dine indoors or alfresco overlooking the main pool beneath a spacious covered seating area.The offering evolves throughout the day, with each service bringing a different selection of dishes. From fresh honeycomb and full English breakfasts to grilled meats, fish and lighter options, there is genuinely something for everyone. Throughout my stay, everything was thoughtfully prepared and of a consistently high standard. The service also deserves a mention, with staff attentive without ever being intrusive.‌Sushi, burgers and sunset cocktailsWhile the buffet offers enough variety to keep guests happy throughout their stay, the resort's speciality restaurants provide an opportunity to slow things down and enjoy a more intimate dining experience.FIKI Japanese Fusion Restaurant was one of my personal highlights. The menu draws inspiration from Japanese, Thai and Korean cuisine. As a British-born Thai, I have a particular appreciation for authentic Asian flavours, so I was pleased to find a menu that balanced creativity with confidence. Highlights included the sushi, tuna tiradito and a light tonka crème brûlée topped with coconut foam.Pygmalion, meanwhile, puts a premium spin on comfort food. I opted for the bacon and avocado burger, served alongside perfectly crisp fries, followed by warm cookie dough and vanilla ice cream that struck the perfect balance of sweetness.‌As part of the all-inclusive offering, guests can enjoy an extensive selection of drinks throughout the day. I quickly developed a soft spot for the piña coladas, while Aperol and Limoncello Spritzes became a regular fixture as the sun began to set over the Mediterranean.The spa: A sanctuary for slowing downWhile much of the resort centres around the pools, restaurants and activities, the spa feels like a sanctuary within a sanctuary. Complete with a relaxation pool, Jacuzzi and treatment rooms, it feels pleasantly removed from the busier areas of the hotel. A back massage proved a particular highlight, with the therapist tailoring the treatment to my individual needs. Combined with soft music and calming scents, it was the perfect place to unwind.Article continues belowIs it worth the price tag?With prices starting from £1,353 per person through easyJet Holidays for seven nights in a Superior Sea View Room, including flights, transfers, luggage and the all-inclusive package, Imperial Island Resort is undoubtedly a premium holiday option. Yet after several days exploring everything it has to offer, the price feels justified by the quality of the experience.Perhaps most impressively, the resort manages to appeal to families, couples and groups alike without losing its sense of sophistication. Between the exceptional food, attentive service, beachfront setting and thoughtful attention to detail, it feels like the sort of place where nobody has to compromise.Book itEasyJet holidays offers seven nights at the 5* Imperial Island Resort in Paphos, Cyprus, on an all-inclusive basis in a Superior Room with sea view from £1,353 per person including 23kg of luggage per person, transfers and flights from London Gatwick based on 01 July 2026 departure.