National Geographic includes Cyprus among the world’s best literary retreats for 2026

Cyprus has been included in National Geographic Traveller UK’s list of seven literary journeys recommended for 2026. The seven-day retreat in Larnaca, inspired by Elif Shafak’s novel «The Island of Missing Trees», was included among the best destinations for literature lovers.

The Cypriot itinerary, titled «Fig Trees and Vine Leaves», features alongside journeys to Provence, Yorkshire, Zermatt, Svalbard, the Nile and Morocco. At the heart of the programme is Elif Shafak’s 2021 novel, set between Cyprus and London. The book tells the love story of Kostas, a Greek Cypriot, and Defne, a Turkish Cypriot, whose lives are shaped by the island’s division, loss and the memories of past generations. The work’s most unusual narrator is a fig tree, which observes the story of the characters and the island.

Retreat participants will stay at the Josephine Boutique Hotel in central Larnaca, near Finikoudes Beach. The programme includes free time for reading by the pool, exploring the city and relaxing by the sea.

Guests are also offered optional activities, including a walk through the Old Town, a boat trip and a visit to the archaeological park. In the evening, participants gather for dinner to discuss «The Island of Missing Trees». Another meeting is devoted to travellers’ favourite books, giving everyone the chance to talk about a work that is particularly meaningful to them.

Most participants travel alone, and single-room accommodation is available. The next departure in 2026 is scheduled for 5 October. Prices for the seven-day package start at £1,695 per person.

The price includes accommodation, breakfasts, three dinners with wine and water, ATOL-protected flights and airport transfers. National Geographic notes that more and more travellers are choosing trips connected not only with beach holidays, but also with books, culture and the opportunity to get to know a destination in greater depth. Larnaca is the only Cypriot destination on the list, which also includes literary journeys across Europe, Egypt and Morocco.