After escaping the heat of Ayia Napa, we headed towards the coolness of the Troodos Mountains. We spent half a day on the road, navigating through mountainous terrain with all its twists and turns, but the beauty we witnessed was worth it! Looking out the car window, we saw fields and meadows, animals grazing, and windmills turning. However, the landscape changed dramatically as we ascended the steep serpentine roads of the Troodos Mountains. This area is the greenest and most picturesque in all of Cyprus, they say that even snow falls here and there are ski resorts on Mount Olympus. The air is fresher in the mountains, and a cool breeze flows through. Today, I’ll share some tips on what to see in the Troodos Mountains – picturesque villages, waterfalls, and monasteries.
The Troodos mountain range formed millions of years ago, and now it stands as one of the main attractions in Cyprus.
What to see in the Troodos Mountains?
Kykkos Monastery – Tips on what to see in the Troodos Mountains.
Even before reaching the monastery, you can see Kykkos from a distance with its imposing walls that make it resemble a fortress. Massive buttresses on the outer walls, balconies, and projecting sections on the upper floors characterize the monastery.
This monastery is the most famous in Cyprus and attracts visitors to see a rare collection of holy relics kept in shrines, known throughout the Orthodox world.
Abbot Nikifor created the Museum of the Holy Kykkos Monastery, where icons, liturgical objects, church utensils, garments, embroidery, and manuscripts are preserved according to contemporary art standards. The museum feels like a functioning treasury, with its unique meaning and history.
Today the Kykkos Monastery is crowded and beautiful. Here you subtly feel the connection of times, epochs and devotions.
Tripilos National Reserve.
The mountain sun shines on the treetops, and a warm, gentle breeze wanders among the green branches. Only in these places does the short-needle Cypriot cedar grow. It has found its home in the Tripilos National Park in the Paphos forest lands, 18 kilometers from the monastery, at an altitude of 900-1400 meters above sea level.
We’ll step out of the car, sit on a bench, and admire one of the majestic cedars living here, reaching heights of up to 30 meters. Look at how the giant’s limbs are whimsically arranged – this cedar is noticeably different from other forest inhabitants. Short branches at the top of the tree give it the shape of a pyramid, while below, they turn into fluffy, sprawling branches that resemble outstretched dark green tired wrinkled hands. The tree’s bark, either ashy or grayish-brown, peeks through the massive needles. Nature ordered October to become the month of blooming beautiful trees. In the fall, the cedar adorns itself with cones of different colors: pale brown ones on male cedars, and reddish ones on females. Moreover, the cedar is a mountain centenarian, destined to live a long life of 500 years or more. Enjoy the pine scents! Feel how light your head has become? Cedars grant this gift to those who visit them.
Life of the Highlanders. Tips on what to see in the Troodos mountains.
The journey to the mountains itself is a grand adventure. The roads reveal mountain landscapes and breathtaking views of the valleys. The Troodos Mountains host numerous Byzantine monasteries, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages where true mountain people live. If you plan to explore the Troodos Mountains, check out posts about my favorite villages in this area – Village Life in Omodos and The Hidden Gem Kakopetria. I highly recommend seeing these two stunning villages.
Mostly elderly people live here, whose children and grandchildren have moved to big cities, and who come to the villages for summer vacations, and just to be with their loved ones. Local life in such villages is well established, usually local people live from the sale of handicrafts, wine production, fruit sales, renting accommodation and tourist services.
But it wasn’t always like this. In ancient times, life in the mountains was difficult and hard. The mountaineers did not have enough land to grow vegetables. And even if they did, there was not enough money even to feed themselves and their families. The mountain dwellers resorted to other trades. Many of them chose the life of a shepherd and traveled far away from the village.
Here, you can see olive tree plantations like nowhere else. By the way, real olives have a bitter taste, and only after preservation do they acquire a pleasant shade. Each village has its unique taverns where dishes are prepared according to special recipes. Mountain people diligently make halloumi cheese, a blend of goat and sheep milk. In many taverns, a local dish called kleftiko (oven-baked lamb) is prepared. The best wines of Cyprus will be offered with the meat, and for dessert – a variety of sweets. These can be berries sugared in grape syrup and churchkhela. Each family has its villa and a small plot of land where vegetables and fruits are grown year-round. And there are plenty of cat faces lazily warming their bellies in the warm sun.
Camel Path – Camilustrata. Tips on what to see in the Troodos Mountains.
In the 16th century, the Venetians laid paths through the Troodos Mountains to shorten distances for transporting various goods. They transported copper and iron ore along these roads. It was not an easy task to traverse the high mountains, as swift rivers eroded the roads, creating obstacles. Stone bridges, built by unknown masters, solved this problem by spanning the waters of these rivers. It is said that entire caravans of resilient camels walked across these bridges, carrying heavy loads of over five hundred kilograms on their backs. They covered vast distances, passing through gorges, ascending and descending the mountains at speeds reaching 50 kilometers per hour.
Over time, the trail used by the camel caravans fell into disuse, but the name persisted – Camilustrata (Camel path). The beauty of the deep Paphos Forest and the mountain rivers Diarozos and Xeros embraced these bridges. Majestic arched bridges with almost human names like Elia, Roudias, and Skarfos lived long and happily into old age, and to this day, they stand not far from each other.
Choose a hiking route through the mountains; there are several here. Many of them follow the Krios Potamos River. This river is incredibly beautiful, but its water is so cold that it sends shivers down your spine. These are very picturesque places, and the paths can lead you to the largest waterfall Millomeris. The Artemis route will show you the ruins of the Venetian fleet and cover seven kilometers, while the Atlantis route will take you through a dense forest where you’ll inhale the scent of pine and juniper (14 kilometers).
If you hide in the forest, you may see a rabbit darting by, followed by a red fox. Peeking out from behind a tree, you might spot a flock of timid sheep, and in the sky, proud eagles will soar.
Commandaria is the most famous wine of Cyprus in the Troodos Mountains.
As Cyprus is rich in vineyards, some of the world’s best wines are produced in the Troodos Mountains. The most common ones include Xynisteri wine from white grapes and varieties like Ophthalmos, Mavro, and Maratheftiko from red grapes. But the most famous Cypriot wine is Commandaria. It is considered the oldest wine in the world. It is often used in church ceremonies. In the Middle Ages, Commandaria was called the “wine of the Crusaders” because they used the drink for communion in the church. There is even a legend about Richard the Lionheart, who, enchanted by this divine beverage, decided to conquer Cyprus for it. Commandaria has a very sweet taste, reminiscent of our Kagor. The bitterness is explained by the use of slightly dried, overripe berries in the wine-making process.
How to get to the Troodos Mountains?
I highly recommend traveling by car as it is the most convenient and direct option. If you don’t have a car, you can rent one at very reasonable prices here.
From Nicosia: While in the capital of Cyprus, head southwest and follow the signs on the A1 highway towards the west. Continue until you reach the town of Troodos, and you will see signs for the mountains.
From Limassol: Take the A6 highway north. Follow the signs to Troodos, and you will be guided to breathtaking landscapes.
Check Aviasales to find the cheapest flights to Cyprus if you are planning to travel from another country.
Before hitting the trail, make sure you have:
Comfortable shoes.
Water and snacks.
A map of the route or a navigation device.
Don’t forget to explore the rich flora and fauna of Troodos, including cypress forests and unique bird species. Capture the majestic mountain landscapes and share your impressions!
Authentic Hotels in the Enchanting Troodos Mountains.
For travelers seeking an authentic and immersive experience, the region boasts a collection of charming hotels that not only provide a comfortable stay but also offer a genuine taste of local life.
Casale Panayiotis: A Historic Retreat.
Casale Panayiotis is a restored 19th-century mountain village, seamlessly blending tradition with luxury. Set against a backdrop of lush greenery, the hotel’s stone-built rooms and suites exude charm and authenticity. Guests can indulge in traditional Cypriot cuisine at the on-site restaurant and enjoy spa treatments inspired by local herbs and remedies.
Troodos Hotel: Timeless Elegance.
Embodying timeless elegance, Troodos Hotel has been a staple in the region since 1929. The hotel’s classic architecture and warm hospitality provide guests with a true taste of Cypriot culture. With stunning mountain views and proximity to historical sites like the Kykkos Monastery, Troodos Hotel is an ideal base for exploring the region’s treasures.
Livadia Hotel: Family Charm.
For a truly authentic family-run experience, Livadia Hotel captures the essence of Cypriot hospitality. This charming hotel, located in the picturesque village of Kakopetria, provides a cozy atmosphere and personalized service. Guests can savor homemade breakfasts, explore the village’s cobblestone streets, and engage with the local community.
And so, you have a fantastic choice of places to spend an incredible weekend in the Troodos mountains. If you decide to enjoy driving around the area, take your time. Walk, bike, wander – you’ll be rewarded with the most relaxing holiday and discover so much more.
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