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3
moderate
Activities
  • Self Guided Walking
Accommodation
  • Hotels
Meals
  • 7 Breakfasts

7 Days£950GBP

Overview

Trip Code: JT2

Troodos Mountains Hiking Trip highlights


  • Discover hidden Cyprus in the villages & forest of the Troodos Mountains
  • Marvel at UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches with 12th-century frescoes
  • Hike the Artemis & Atalante Trails around the summit of Mt Olympos
  • Listen to birdsong and the sound of waterfalls in ancient pine forests
  • Savour traditional Cypriot wines in the stone-built village of Omodos
  • Stay in characterful locally-run inns and experience village hospitality

Discover a cooler, greener side of Cyprus as you explore the pine-scented slopes, hidden waterfalls, and fresco-filled churches of the Troodos Mountains on foot. This self-guided walking holiday links together a collection of the island’s most scenic and culturally significant trails, from panoramic ridge walks to shady forest paths that follow mountain streams all with incredible views across this Mediterranean island shaped by millennia of history, where ancient empires, sacred art and layered civilisations have left a legacy as rich and captivating as its landscapes.

Staying in characterful, welcoming and family run village inns in the villages of Kakopetria and Pano Platres, you will enjoy the relaxed rhythm of hiking by day and warm Cypriot hospitality by night. Along the way, visit UNESCO-listed painted churches, taste wine in historic Omodos, and and soak up sweeping views from the flanks of Mount Olympos to the distant Mediterranean coast.

Food here is part of the journey; gorge on grilled halloumi with honey, mountain stews, olives and rustic bread, all washed down with locally made wine. With no walk longer than 14km, private transfers to trailheads, and airport pick-ups included, this itinerary is ideal for walkers seeking easy access to a slow-paced mountain experience rich in nature, heritage and flavour under the often glorious Cypriot sun.

Countries:

Cyprus

Starting Point:

Paphos or Larnaca

Finishing Point:

Paphos or Larnaca


Arrive at Paphos or Larnaca airport and meet your driver for the included private transfer (1 hr 30 mins) to Kakopetria Village in the Troodos Mountains. This traditional village sits in the Solea Valley, nestled in the forested hills of the central Troodos. Stone-built houses with timber balconies line the narrow cobbled streets, where small cafés and tavernas offer a warm Cypriot welcome. The nearby UNESCO-listed chapel of Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis features vivid Byzantine frescoes, and walking trails lead directly from the village into the pine-covered hills and along peaceful riverside paths. Accommodation: Three nights at a a comfortable, converted heritage building near the old town, with ensuite rooms and valley views.

Meals:  B

Today you will walk the Madari Circuit Trail in the Pitsilia area of the eastern Troodos. Your taxi will collect you at 9am for the transfer to Moutti Tis Choras from where you will join the trail which circles around Mount Madari. This rewarding trail affords fine views around the island out to the coast in the south and across the peaks in the centre of the Troodos. The trail leads gradually uphill to the Adelphi peak watchtower, a distinctive structure perched at one of the trail’s highest points. One of the most scenic trails in Cyprus, you will pass through varied terrain rich in native flora, from aromatic herbs and mastic shrubs to stands of juniper, golden oak, strawberry tree and pine. In shaded gullies you may spot bracken, wild rose and even cedar or plane trees. The Madari area is also known for its distinctive rock formations and, further afield, is home to Panagia tou Araka, one of the renowned UNESCO-listed painted churches of the Troodos, noted for its preserved 12th-century frescoes. A late afternoon transfer will take you back to your hotel in Kakopetria.

Meals:  B

Today’s linear return walk links two of the Troodos Mountains’ most important cultural landmarks - Stavros tou Ayiasmati and Panagia tou Araka, both UNESCO-listed churches renowned for their vivid Byzantine frescoes dating back to the 12th and 14th centuries. The beautiful frescoes were not only acts of devotion but also served as teaching tools for largely illiterate congregations. After a short private transfer, your route begins near Platanistasa village, passing through tranquil pine forest, almond orchards and vineyards, with sections of endemic golden oak. The return out and back trail includes several steep ascents and descents and the rewards are rich in both scenery and story. You will enjoy expansive views over the Morphou and Mesaoria plains, the Pentadaktylos Mountains, and across to Kionia and Madari peaks as well as your visits to the churches. Spring brings wild orchids and flowering rock rose; late winter sees almond trees in bloom along the path. The walk concludes with a gentle descent through Lagoudera village to reach Panagia tou Araka where you will meet your transport for return to Kakopetria.

Meals:  B

Today’s walk follows the Artemis and Atalante Trails, two of the finest high-level paths in the Troodos, circling the summit slopes of Mount Olympos (1952m/6404ft). Linked together, these trails create a scenic circular walk with views that reach out to the coast around the entire island. Your day begins with a short private transfer to the “North Face” ski station on Olympos where you will join the Artemis Trail as it skirts peaceful forest before emerging onto the higher slopes of the mountain from where there are incredible views. There are many varieties of trees in the forest, including 500 year old Black Pine, Golden Oak, Cyprus Cedar and Calabrian Pine. The Artemis Trail joins the Atalante Trail through virgin forest with glimpses of the northern part of the island, and sees you finish your walk in Troodos Square. There are an array of cafes and restuarants here for you to enjoy while you await your transfer to Pano Platres. Accommodation: Three nights in a comfortable, friendly traditional mountain inn in the village of Pano Platres, with ensuite rooms and views across the surrounding valleys.

Meals:  B

Platres, at 1200m, is the highest of the mountain villages and was a popular resort with British colonists in times past and retains the feel of a colonial hill station. This old world charm now mixes with more modern hotels and restaurants for the visitors who come to hike the forest and mountain trails or ski in the winter months. Walking from your hotel, your circular walk today combines two very scenic and contrasting trails – the panoramic Pouziaris Trail and the shady forest of the Caledonia Trail, named by Scottish colonial officers who were reminded of the cool forests of their homeland. Ascend the Pouziaris Trail, which winds steadily uphill through aromatic forest. As you climb, the canopy opens to sweeping views over surrounding peaks, with the occasional glimpse of the sea beyond. This section is typically quiet so you can listen to the birdsong and the crunch of pine needles underfoot. Leaving the trail part-way, you will join the Caledonia Trail to descend a beautiful valley following the Kryos Potamos stream, surrounded by moss-covered rocks and broad leaf trees. Wooden bridges cross the stream multiple times as you descend towards the Caledonia Waterfall, a 12m cascade. Pause here for a well-earned break before continuing to follow the stream to the trailhead from where it’s a short walk downhill to the village.

Meals:  B

In the morning, you may wish to take the short but scenic walk from your hotel along the Myllomeris Trail (approx 45 mins). Follow the shaded forest path, occasionally crossing a small stream and winding through stands of pine, plane and golden oak. The final approach reveals the Myllomeris Waterfall cascading down a rock face into a shallow pool. Soak up the sounds of water and birdsong before taking the trail back to Platres where a private transfer will take you to Mandria, a stone-built village with a traditional church and a restaurant popular with locals. From here you will hike down into the valley below the tree line into a landscape of orchards and vineyards to the village of Omodos. one of the Troodos Mountains’ most picturesque and renowned for its stone-paved square, traditional wine presses, and long heritage of Cypriot winemaking, with local varieties still produced in family-run wineries that welcome visitors for tastings. There are several wineries you can visit here, or you can just while away your time strolling the narrow cobbled streets shopping for souvenirs or enjoy a Cyprus coffee. A private transfer will collect you later in the afternoon as you return to Platres. Toast your trip with a glass of local wine or a Keo beer and enjoy dinner in the village.

Meals:  B

After breakfast, transfer to either Paphos (1h 15mins) or Larnaca (1h 30mins) Airport for your departure flight. Alternatively you can spend more time exploring the island – ask our team about adding extra nights to your stay.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 6 breakfasts
  • 6 nights accommodation in hotels - twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Digital information pack including navigational travel app
  • Arrival and departure transfers to Paphos or Larnaca airport
  • Private transfers to the trailhead on days 2, 3, 4 & 6
  • Luggage transfers, 1 bag per person up to 20kg
  • Emergency hotline

  • Lunches, Dinners & Beverages
  • Entrance fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls
  • Unscheduled transfers required during the trip & all public transport
  • Guide - this is a self guided holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Excess luggage

Accommodation


Trail Surface


Suitability

moderate

3

This holiday is graded Moderate, due to the varied terrain which includes forest and mountain tracks with some steady ascents and descents. Daily distances range from 7 to 13 km (4.5 to 8 miles) making this a rewarding yet achievable mountain walking holiday for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Private transfers to and from trailheads keep each day focused on the most scenic routes, and the walking is unhurried with time to pause and take in the views


Departure dates

Daily from 1 Jan - 31 May & 15 Sep - 24 Dec

Priceper person from

£950GBP

Options & Supplements*
    *Prices listed are per person

Frequently Asked Questions

This trip is a great way to explore the quieter, greener side of Cyprus, away from the busy coastal resorts. Walking through the pine forests and ridgelines of the Troodos Mountains, you’ll visit UNESCO-listed Byzantine chapels, stay in traditional village inns, and enjoy generous servings of local food and wine. Cyprus has a rich and complex history shaped by Romans, Crusaders, Venetians and Ottomans, but it was the Byzantine period that left the most lasting mark in the mountains. You’ll follow old paths once used by pilgrims and shepherds, reaching remote 12th-century churches with vivid frescoes still intact. With varied but manageable walks, welcoming hosts, and a strong sense of place, this trip is ideal for walkers who value uncrowded trails and authentic cultural experiences. The walking is rewarding without being too strenuous, and there’s time each day to pause and take in the views. While most visitors head to the coast, few explore inland, where you’ll find unspoilt forest, timeless villages and wide-open mountain scenery. With a long walking season, Cyprus is especially appealing in spring and autumn when conditions are mild and the trails are quiet. If you’re after a relaxed mountain holiday with nature, history and sunshine, this is an excellent choice.

It’s very straightforward. Cyprus is easy to reach, with a large network of flight options from across Europe and the Greek capital, Athens. We have included private transfers within the cost of this trip from either Paphos (1h 15 mins) or Larnaca (1h 30 mins) Airports so once your flight lands there is no stress of getting across the island by public transport and you will arrive at your hotel relatively quickly.

This trip is graded Moderate. You’ll need a reasonable level of walking fitness and confidence on uneven terrain. On some of the trails across mountainside slopes, there is a light feeling of exposure as you cross some steep slopes (although there are no precipitous long drops!) Daily walks range from 7 to 13km, with some steady ascents and descents, particularly on mountain and forest paths. There’s no technical difficulty, and walks are unhurried, with time to stop and enjoy the views.

You’ll stay in two welcoming, family-run inns full of Cypriot character – one in a cobbled mountain village and the other in a traditional hillside resort. Rooms are ensuite, simple and comfortable, with views over valleys or village rooftops. Both properties offer a relaxed atmosphere, generous breakfasts, and easy access to local tavernas and trailheads..

Walks are graded moderate, with the longest day covering around 13km. Trails include forest paths, ridge walks and stepped descents, with some rough or rocky sections underfoot. A few walks have short steep climbs, but daily distances are manageable and supported with included transfers. There’s no high altitude, and you’ll have time each day to rest and explore.

Cypriot food is hearty, seasonal and full of flavour. Expect grilled meats, fresh salads, mountain stews, local cheeses like halloumi, and plenty of olives, herbs and honey. You’ll eat well in village tavernas, where traditional dishes are made with care. Local wines are a highlight too, especially in Omodos, one of the island’s best-known wine villages. Vegetarians are well catered for.

Yes, solo travellers are very welcome on this trip. Single rooms can be arranged on request (a solo supplement applies), and the welcoming nature of the local communities, combined with widespread English-speaking, makes Cyprus an easy and enjoyable destination to explore alone. It’s a great choice for independent walkers who value scenic trails, cultural depth, and the chance to enjoy local food, wine and village life at their own pace.


Troodos Mountains Hiking Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been exploring the world on foot for over five decades, and our passion for walking runs deep. Having hiked nearly every corner of Europe, we take pride in sharing the joy, freedom and perspective that only travelling on foot can bring, all with the exceptional service and care our travellers know us for.

Great Value & Quality

Our trips offer excellent value for money, with everything you need for a seamless walking holiday. Each package includes detailed route notes, maps and navigation app, luggage transfers, and comfortable locally run accommodation. We take care of the planning, so you can simply enjoy the walk.

Self-Guided Specialists

We've been operating self-guided active holidays since 1973, taking care of every detail so you can relax and explore at your own pace. With many walking and hiking tours departing daily, you'll enjoy the freedom and flexibility to travel when it suits you.