The climate of Cyprus, with 324 days of sunshine per year, features long, dry summers and short, rainy winters. By using plants native to the Mediterranean basin, the landscapers of Anassa highlight the beauty of the region while also keeping irrigation needs to a minimum. First planted twenty years ago, the garden is on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea. The 45,000 square-metres were already rich in ancient olive and carob trees, which continue to thrive. At the outset, gardeners added some 35,000 specimens to the plot. The tall, thin spikes of the cypress tree reach to the skies, while small groves of citrus trees, eucalyptus, fig trees, pines, and Akamas cedar provide shade. Much of the garden comprises what Head Gardener Spyros Pelopida calls ‘waves of green,’ cushion-shaped mounds of shrubbery making a visual cascade down the hillside. Among these are scented herbs such as rosemary, lavender, oregano, and bay laurel along with colourful flowering bushes such as lantana, jasmine, honeysuckle, oleander, and hibiscus. Pelopida and his crew of 6 gardeners work throughout the year, trimming back growth and adding about 1000 new plants each year. Despite its lush appearance, the garden of Anassa is watered sparingly during the long, dry summer. The irrigation system is divided into seven zones, with each receiving a weekly watering. Anassa collects grey wastewater from the hotel and laundry, treating and purifying the water before sending it into the drip and sprinkler system. It’s a green garden in every sense of the word!
