Nestled in the heart of Cyprus, the Troodos Mountains are a true hidden gem that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and cultural heritage. This mountain range boasts spectacular landscapes, endemic flora and fauna, picturesque waterfalls, and breathtaking views that make it an unforgettable destination.
A visit to the Troodos Mountains is an absolute must. The peaks rise almost 2000 meters high. In winter they are covered with snow, making winter sports possible. Discover picturesque villages with houses of traditional architecture, vineyards, terraced slopes and beautiful nature trails. Hidden in the woods are the most beautiful Byzantine churches of Cyprus.
The Troodos Mountains are home to an astonishing variety of endemic plant species and lush forests. Some of the highlights include:
Troodos is known for its charming waterfalls and streams, which can be found throughout the region. Some of the most famous include:
Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Cyprus, offers awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscape. Don't miss the opportunity to visit some of the best vantage points and viewing spots in the area, such as the Troodos Observatory and the numerous hiking trails that crisscross the mountain range.
The Troodos Mountains are home to a collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Painted Churches of Troodos. These stunning churches are characterized by their intricate frescoes and rich history. Notable churches to visit include Panagia tou Araka and Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis, each with their own unique charm and artistic significance.
Troodos is dotted with charming traditional villages such as Omodos and Kakopetria, which offer a glimpse into the authentic Cypriot way of life. In addition to exploring these picturesque villages, be sure to visit some of the area's fascinating museums, like the Troodos Geological Park and the Byzantine Museum, to learn more about the region's rich history and cultural heritage.
Troodos offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails suitable for all levels of experience. Popular trails include:
The Troodos Ski Resort, located on the slopes of Mount Olympus, is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The resort offers a range of facilities and activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, making it an ideal winter getaway.
In and around the village there are four frescoed churches, the monastery church of Panagia Podythou, the gable-roofed chapel of Archangelos Michael, the 16th century Agios Sozomenos church and the Agia Paraskevi church, whose murals date back to 1514. Also worth seeing is an old restored inn of the "Chani ton Kallianon".
The picturesque village square of Kakopetria with its pretty restored houses is a protected monument. In addition, you can admire the frescoes of the Panagia Theotodou church, about half of which have been preserved, and the wall paintings of the Agios Georgios church from the 16th century.
About 5 km from Kakopetria is the Agios Niokolas tis Stegis Church, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The former monastery is painted with magnificent frescoes dating from the 11th to the 17th century. Its name "tis Stegis" stands for the characteristic gable roof of the church. It is considered one of the most important Byzantine churches in Cyprus.
This pretty village is known for its sulfurous springs and the Agios Ioannis Lambadistis church. The church actually unites three chapels under your gable roof, originally as a monastery today UNESCO heritage site.
The most famous and richest monastery in Cyprus was founded in 1100 and is dedicated to the Holy Virgin. Three preserved images of the Virgin Mary are housed here. The museum attached to the monastery displays collections of priceless value and ancient findings from the monastery property. Church festivals are held here on August 15 and September 8.
The village is famous for its Archangelos Michael Church, built in 1474, with the barn roof typical of the Troodos Mountains. Also worth seeing are the Byzantine Museum with exhibits from the area and the Folklore Museum with collections of traditional and rural life.
Located in Palaichori, the museum displays liturgical utensils and icons from the village's churches dating from the 12th to 17th centuries, as well as silverware, copper engravings and carvings.
The village of Pelendri contains two interesting church buildings. One is the Holy Cross Church with magnificent frescoes from the Paleolithic period, which is included in the UNSESC World Heritage List, and the Panagia Katholiki in the village center. The church, dating back to the 16th century, contains frescoes in Italian-Byzantine style.
The oil mill in Spilia is a single room with a gable roof, renovated in 1995. It shows a completely preserved technical equipment, the wooden press and the stone oil mill together with millstones from the 19th century. Also exhibited are tools and equipment used in the production of olive oil.
The three-nave church with its pointed gable tile roof in Kourdali dates back to the 16th century and was originally a monastery church dedicated to the Holy Virgin, donated by Ioannis Kourdalis.
Dating back to the 12th century, the church (UNESCO World Heritage Site) in Lagoudera contains beautiful murals in the style of the late Comnenian period (1192). It is, together with the Asinou and Agios Nikolaos tis Stégis churches, among the most important Byzantine church buildings in all of Cyprus.
About three kilometers from the village of Platanistasa lies the famous Stavros tou Agiasmati Church, which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNSECO. It contains the richest 15th century fresco cycles found anywhere in Cyprus.
This church in Palaichori has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is a 16th century chapel located on a hill above the village. The interior is painted with magnificent frescoes from the Byzantine period.
The Troodos Mountains offer an unparalleled experience for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. From the awe-inspiring natural beauty to the rich cultural heritage and exhilarating activities, Troodos is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Cyprus. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to embrace the magic of the Troodos Mountains.
Made with ♥ by Tanas Digital