Troodos Mountains
Rising to the famous Mount Olympus peak at almost 2000m, the stunning Troodos mountain range is one of the most interesting and scenic areas on the island. The mountains lie between Nicosia and Limassol and can be easily reached for an ideal escape from the lively hustle and bustle of the town.
Getting there
The easiest way to reach the Troodos area is by car. The journey takes approximately one hour from Larnaca, following the motorway to either Nicosia or Limassol and then taking the clearly signposted roads into the mountains. Organised tours by coach are also available and adventurous travellers can even explore with an action-packed 4x4 jeep trip!
What to take
During the summer months light clothing and sunscreen are recommended, as even in the mountains the sun is still strong. Evenings and late afternoons can be cooler, so a few warmer layers are also useful. A camera, map and plenty of fuel are essential for exploring the captivating local villages and vistas.
Things to do
The Troodos Mountains offer something for everyone - whether you want to explore, relax, try some adrenalin-fuelled adventures or simply appreciate the unique local culture of the area`s many pretty villages.
Sports, sightseeing and exploring will all work up a healthy appetite and the various traditional cafes, tavernas and restaurants offer a warm welcome and delicious local dishes and delicacies.
Sports
For more energetic visitors, the summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. There are four main hiking trails around the cooling green countryside of the Troodos area, catering to all abilities. The 7km circular Artemis trail is ideal for beginners, beginning on the Mount Olympus road and passing under the Black Pine canopy where Griffon vultures, eagles, hoopes and nightingales can be spotted. The trail ends in the village of Prodromos, the heart of the Troodos` winter sport area and the ideal location for a well-deserved drink.
The area`s many trails can also be explored by mountain bike, although the terrain throughout the forests around the region is very challenging, with steep inclines and descents and so is best suited to experienced riders on organised tours.
The Mount Olympus area enjoys snow from around January through to March and during this time the area comes to life with wintersport activities. Four lifts give skiers easy and reliable access to the many slopes, which range from easy descents to thrilling advanced runs. Equipment hire can be easily arranged locally.
Driving Tours
As you would imagine, the imposing mountains offer spectacular roads and views, taking in hairpin bends, cliff top vistas, mountain passes and picturesque village lanes. If you would rather enjoy the sights as a passenger, 4x4 tours are a spectacular way to experience the countryside and benefit from the organisers` local knowledge. Most tours last for the whole day and head off road to more remote beauty spots, so be prepared for a bumpy ride and a delicious local lunch.
Wine tours
Hidden within the mountains are a wide range of excellent vineyards, offering huge ranges of grape varieties, flavours and vintages, and producing delicious reds, whites and rosés. Ancient wine-making traditions are kept alive in the villages of Omodhas, Arsos, and Pachna, all of which are well worth a visit. In the village of Erimi, there is even a wine museum dedicated to the region`s famous heritage.
Historic sites
The region boasts a number of UNESCO world heritage sites, the most famous of which is the must-see Kykkos monastery. Founded in 1100 and situated 20km west of Pedhoulas village, Kykkos is the richest monastery in Cyprus. It is home to one of the three surviving icons painted by the apostle Luke and is also famous for its museum, located within the monastery grounds and housing an impressive collection of icons, woodcarvings and manuscripts.
The 13th Century Troodhitissa monastery is 5 km from Platres. It is beautifully set amongst pine trees and contains historic priceless icons.
Picturesque villages
The Troodos Mountains are home to many charming local villages, each with its own character to experience. Here are just a few of the recommended ‘must sees`:
Lefkara
Just 8km from Skarinou, Lefkara is famous for the Cyprus handmade lace and silverware it has produced for generations. Visitors can still watch local women practicing the traditional lace making trade from their doorways and are often offered tea (or something stronger!) whilst they browse and buy the beautifully made products.
Pitsillia
Lying on the eastern slopes of the Troodos, Pitsillia`s almond and hazelnut orchards are perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Kakopetria
The church of Ayios Nikolaos Tis Stegis stands above the village and is famous for its unusual and impressive painted murals. Galata also boasts four magnificently painted churches around the village, all of which are well worth a visit.
Moutoullas
Visitors can enjoy the village`s renowned natural water.The hand carvings produced by the villagers make ideal gifts and keepsakes. Nearby Phini is famous for its pottery, and culture-loving guests can enjoy the private Pilavakion collection the village hosts.
