Travel to Massif du Troodos

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Massif du Troodos, Cyprus

The Troodos Mountains, the nature side of Cyprus. This imposing massif occupies the western part of the island and peaks at 1,952m with Mount Olympus. Forest-covered and dotted with villages, the massif is particularly appreciated by the Cypriots for its cool temperatures, especially in the heat of the summer. To take advantage of the surrounding areas, many walking and hiking paths are marked out (maps/guides are available at the tourist information office of Cyprus). The centre of the network is located in the aptly-named Troodos Pass. A little over 6 miles north of the village of Platres, this crossroads built at the foot of Mount Olympus is the starting point for many hikes. It is also home to a few shops, car parks, and hotels.
In addition to its beautiful nature, the Troodos Mountains conceal several treasures. The first of them is the Cedar Valley. In an area surrounded by steep banks and difficult to access (the road to get there leaves from Kykko), you will find a protected forest of endemic cedars, very similar to the Lebanese cedar. It is rather enchanting. However, humans have also made their mark here. Nine Byzantine churches in the massif have been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1986. Modest in appearance, they are nevertheless all home to unique wall frescoes (taking photographs inside is prohibited). These are just two of the many reasons to go for a holiday in this massif, also known for its monasteries (that of Kykkos is the most famous).

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Visit Massif du Troodos

• To see

  The Troodos Mountains are crammed with chapels, churches and monasteries. Among them, nine churches are classified as UNESCO World Heritage Monuments for their superb wall frescoes. Do not miss the monastery of Kykko, the most beautiful one on the island.

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  To do

  On foot or by bike, horse, or donkey... the Troodos Mountains are a paradise for the more active visitor. From a gentle walk to a full-on trek, there is something for every level of hiker. Why not enhance these outings with a swim in one of the many rivers and waterfalls that run down the mountainsides? After all, the Troodos Massif is also known as the "water tower" of Cyprus.

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  To think about

  Those who studied Ancient Greek will be delighted to be able to read the signs here, since it is the same alphabet! The rest of us needn't worry though, as all of the signs are also displayed in English. For Paphos and Pafos, it is pretty simple to make the connection, but guessing that Limassol and Lemesos are one and the same place is less obvious. You will be happy to know that driving is on the left-hand side of the road in Cyprus. Finally, be aware that unlike the motorway, which allows you to travel quickly up the coasts, the mountain roads are narrow and winding.

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• To avoid

  Cyprus is famous for its 340 days of sunshine per year, welcoming tourists all year long. In winter, however, the mountains and their nearly 2,000m of altitude mean that the climate is much more severe and cold than on the coast. There is even a small ski resort on Mount Olympus! On the flip side, the region is to be avoided in the middle of summer when it comes to hiking, even if the forests covering the mountains do give them some respite from the heat.

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  To try

  Taste the 'kleftiko' if you can find some. This is one of the most traditional dishes on the island but unfortunately many of the tourists tend to prefer pizzas and hamburgers. To savour this lamb, which has been cooked for hours in the oven and is served with potatoes, call ahead to the local inn to be sure it is available. If not, try the Cyprus version of moussaka, served in a stoneware pot. To take advantage of the setting, go out to the villages.

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  To bring back

  Wine. The island of Cyprus produces some very interesting wines that you can enjoy at home to recreate the ambience of the island. The most renowned productions include the white wines of Omodos and Kilani from the slopes of the Troodos Mountains, and the red wines from Ahera and Semeli. You could also back some crystallised fruit and vegetables (aubergines, quinces), honey, or jam with unusual flavours (green fig or bergamot, for example). As for souvenirs, Cyprus is renowned for its Lefkara lace, its wickerwork, and its pottery.

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Hotels reviews by the Easyexperts

Welcome to the year-round island...

Hotels on Cyprus' south coast, both inland and by the sea, are comfortable and well-equipped. Staff are warm and welcoming, and the hotels tend to be very clean. You're unlikely to be the only Brits discovering this part of the world? Aphrodite's island is a top tourist destination amongst the British ...

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Le Meridien Spa/Resort Limassol

 

Score 9/10

Corina Georgeta Abraham-Barna 24/08/2011 : "L'hotel se trouve justement au bord de la mer, il a plusieurs piscines et restaurants, et ses restos sont excellents"

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SVELTOS

 

Score 5/10

Corina Georgeta Abraham-Barna 24/08/2011 : "Medium hotel, old but improved by new painting, curtains and air conditioning installation. "

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