Troodos
If you’re looking for a holiday destination that has much to offer visitors all year round, then look no further than Troodos. The Troodos Moutain Range offers a contrast to the traditional beach holiday and cypriot heat in summer, and a ski haven in winter. This coupled together with the strong traditions and history of the area, stunning scenery, and charming villages, make it an ideal place to spend a holiday.
Choosing accommodation in this area can be an enjoyable experience, with a choice of spa’s, rural hotels, and farmhouses as a base from which to explore the area. If you book a holiday via a tour operator, your first excursion may be on a Troodos Safari through the mountain ranges on a 4×4 Jeep. These tours may take in the famous turtle breeding ground at Lara Bay, along with the famous Holy Monastery at Kykkos. This monastery along with nine byzantine churches dotted through the area, are among a list of protected sites that have made the UNESCO World Heritage list. These atmospheric buildings are all fine examples of traditional architecture that range from the 9, 11th, 12th, 13th, and 16th Centuries, and many display artwork from the period too. Some of these churches, like Ayios Ioannis Lampadistis in Kalopanagiotis, hold festivals on important name days, like St John’s day in October.
Aside from the churches, industry and craft is prevalent in many locations, including traditional wooden basin carving in Moutoullas, and pottery in Foini. There’s also the Marathasa Valley, known for its Cherry production, and the Krasochoria, or ‘Wine Villages’ on the Southern side of the Mountain range.
But when it comes to mountain ranges, the pull towards active pursuits is ever present, and this area is great for hiking, or in winter, skiing. The highest peak in the Troodos Mountains, Mount Olympus, rises to over 6,000 feet, and has several ski areas, a lift system, 6 ski runs, and a terrain park.
As you can see, whatever time of year you visit Troodos, you have the chance to experience the culture and traditions of the area, get back to nature in stunning surroundings, relax, or if you choose, get active through mountain sports and activities. The nearest airport to Troodos is located in Larnaca, and the mountain range is best accessed by road/car from there.
