The Troodos Mountains, located in the western part of Cyprus, form the largest mountain range on the island. Its highest point, Mount Olympus, rises to an impressive 1,952 meters above sea level. This region is known not only for its breathtaking landscapes and peaceful resorts, but also for its deep historical and cultural roots — with centuries-old monasteries, Byzantine churches, and ancient castles scattered throughout.

Unlike the coastal areas, Troodos has a distinct mountain climate. Summers are dry and warm, while winters can be cold and snowy.

The lush forests of Troodos are home to a rich variety of trees and plants, including pine, cedar, cypress, strawberry trees, and towering cacti. Wildlife here includes foxes, hares, and the Cypriot mouflon — a rare mountain sheep species that is protected by law. Birdwatchers will also enjoy spotting unique species such as Bonelli’s eagles, ravens, and other rare birds of prey.

The traditional villages of Troodos offer a unique window into Cypriot rural life, local agriculture, and traditional craftsmanship. For instance:

• Kalopanayiotis village is known for fish farming;
• Prodromos specializes in apple cultivation;
• Pedoulas is famous for cherries;
• Omodos produces homemade wine;
• Moutoullas crafts unique wooden tubs;
• and Lefkara village is world-renowned for its intricate lacework and fine silverware, a craft passed down for generations.

Exploring these villages is not only a chance to shop for local handmade goods, but also to admire the picturesque views and authentic interiors of mountain homes.

Some of Cyprus’s most iconic religious sites, many listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are also found here — including ancient monasteries and beautifully preserved Byzantine churches.

To make your experience in Troodos even more exciting, try one of the scenic hiking trails or sign up for an off-road quad bike tour through the mountains and forests.

Explore the Villages of Troodos: Local Wine, Handicrafts, History & Hidden Legends

The charming mountain villages of Troodos are a true treasure trove for travelers who want to experience authentic Cypriot culture, explore centuries-old traditions, and enjoy scenic landscapes. Each village has its own unique story — from winemaking and embroidery to folklore and ghost tales.

Omodos village, situated at 800 meters above sea level, is one of the most picturesque destinations in the Troodos region. Home to just 300 residents, it’s renowned for its local wine production — and you can sample homemade wines in almost every house. Don’t miss the Traditional House Museum, where rare vintage photographs and original village-style furniture are displayed. You’ll also find an authentic wine press, quaint local bakeries, and unique handmade sweets that capture the flavor of rural Cyprus.

In Agros, located in the eastern Troodos foothills, locals have mastered the production of fragrant rosewater, rose-infused liqueurs, and brandy made with delicate rose petals. The village is also known for its excellent traditional meats, including loukaniko sausages, hiromeri (dry-cured ham), and a variety of smoked delicacies.

Make your way to Pedoulas, a peaceful village surrounded by apple orchards, cherry trees, and vineyards — the ideal climate makes it a fruit lover’s paradise. The Byzantine Museum, showcasing religious relics and ancient icons from the 13th and 14th centuries, is a cultural highlight. Nearby, the Folkloric Museum gives insight into everyday rural life, featuring antique household tools, weaving looms for silk, and an old hootch distillery. The Church of Archangel Michael, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also located in the village.

Neighboring Moutoullas is home to another UNESCO-listed church — Panagia tou Moutoulla church, a small, single-aisle church adorned with exquisite 13th-century wall paintings. The village is also famous for its hand-carved wooden bread molds, a local folk tradition that lives on to this day.

Perched above the Setrachos River, the village of Kalopanayiotis is nestled in a green valley full of blossoming gardens. The village features a fish reservoir for trout farming, natural healing springs, the remarkable Agios Ioannis Lampadistis Monastery, and a Byzantine Icon Museum. A number of hiking trails begin in and around the village, making it ideal for nature lovers.

If you enjoy mystery and ghost stories, head to Prodromos, the highest village in Cyprus. Here you’ll find the abandoned Berengaria Hotel, a once-grand resort that fell into disuse in the 1980s. Locals tell eerie tales about this haunting structure — often mistaken for a castle. The village is also known for growing some of the finest apples on the island.

Another must-visit is Platres, located on the southern slope of Mount Olympus at 1,200 meters elevation. The village is the starting point for several hiking trails leading to Troodos waterfalls. You’ll also find a trout farm and a local chocolate workshop here. Nearby stands the serene Trooditissa Monastery, which houses an icon of the Virgin Mary believed to be painted by Apostle Luke.

Galata, nestled in the Solea Valley along the Klarios River, is known for its beautiful architecture. Wooden shutters, carved balconies, and traditional staircases decorate most homes. The village is dotted with six historic churches, and the Folk Art Museum displays costumes, rare books, household antiques, and handcrafted works by local artisans.

Finally, Lefkara — arguably the most famous village in Cyprus — draws visitors from around the globe to admire the world-famous Lefkaritika embroidery and fine silver filigree jewelry. With its cobbled streets, white travertine houses, vibrant greenery, 18 churches, and dozens of cafes and restaurants, Lefkara offers a truly unforgettable mountain village experience wrapped in warmth and hospitality.

Olympus Mountain Ski Resort: Snow Adventures in the Heart of Cyprus

Believe it or not, Cyprus has its own ski resort — and it’s nestled high in the Troodos Mountains, on the slopes of Mount Olympus, the island’s highest peak. The Ski Cyprus resort is the only winter sports facility of its kind in the country, offering four well-maintained ski trails suitable for beginners, hobby skiers, and experienced athletes alike. The slopes range from 150 to 500 meters in length, and all are serviced by ski lifts.

On-site you’ll find a rental center offering all the necessary equipment for both children and adults, including skis, snowboards, helmets, and boots. If you're new to skiing, you can also book a professional instructor to guide you through your first steps on the snow.

The resort has two hotels within walking distance, and additional accommodation options are available in nearby mountain villages, where you can rent cosy apartments or traditional houses.

Keep in mind that during heavy winter snowfalls, access roads to the resort may occasionally close. To help plan your visit, a webcam installed on one of the slopes offers a live view of the weather and snow conditions.

Monasteries of Troodos: Cyprus’ Spiritual and Cultural Treasures

The Troodos Mountains are not only known for nature and outdoor activities, but also for their rich spiritual heritage. The region is home to several iconic monasteries, many of which are part of Cyprus’ UNESCO-listed sites.

Kykkos Monastery is among the oldest, richest, and most revered religious sites on the island. Founded in the late 11th century, during the Byzantine era, the complex includes a church, monks’ cells, a museum, library, and a cathedral hall, built over different periods in distinct architectural styles. The interior is adorned with stunning iconography and murals, many created by Cypriot, Greek, and Romanian artists in the 20th century. The most sacred relic here is the Icon of the Virgin of Kykkos, believed to possess divine power. The icon is rarely uncovered — local tradition holds that to look upon it directly could bring blindness — but many still come here just to be in its presence.

Chrysorogiatissa Monastery Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery, about 40 km from Paphos, dates back to the early 12th century. It was founded by the monk Ignatius, who discovered the Icon of the Virgin Chrysorrogiatissa — now a treasured relic. The monastery features a museum, showcasing a collection of liturgical items, sacred vestments, and icons from the 17th to 20th centuries.

Trooditissa Monastery , located just 10 km from Platres, was built in 1250. According to legend, two hermits were guided by a divine vision from the Holy Virgin Mary to establish the monastery. Here you’ll find the Icon of the Virgin Mary of Troodos, believed to be painted by Apostle Luke, and a miraculous belt adorned with silver and gold, which pilgrims claim helps heal various ailments.

Machairas Monastery, around 40 km from Nicosia, sits near Lazanias village. A popular legend tells of two hermits from Palestine, Neophytos and Ignatius, who discovered a sacred icon in a nearby cave. To reach it, they used a machete, or “makhaira” in Greek — hence the monastery’s name. The icon itself is thought to be another work of Apostle Luke.

Timios Stavros Monastery , located in Omodos village, is a significant historic and religious site, although it is inactive today. The church dates back to 210 AD, while legend attributes the founding of the monastery to Queen Helena in the 5th century, who allegedly left a fragment of the True Cross here on her way back from Jerusalem.

Finally, high in the Troodos mountains lies Panagia tou Kykkou Monastery, a nunnery built in the 12th century. The main relics here include an icon of the Virgin Mary and another sacred piece believed to be painted by Saint Seraphim of Sarov.

Troodos National Park: Breathtaking Trails and Nature Treasures

Covering nearly 45% of the Troodos mountain range, the Troodos National Forest Park is a true paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking a scenic escape from the coastal heat.

The park features dozens of hiking trails, ranging from short routes just over a kilometer long to extended 10-kilometer treks. For those who prefer two wheels, there are well-marked cycling routes, which often stretch further and offer equally stunning landscapes.

Hiking in Troodos is not only a chance to soak in majestic mountain views, but also a rare opportunity to discover endemic plant species, observe protected animals and birds, and encounter historic ruins, including Venetian-era buildings, ancient paths, and the iconic Caledonia Waterfall.

The park also hosts cultural and educational events, such as geology-themed exhibitions, nature seminars, and environmental workshops. In the local gift shop, you can find handcrafted souvenirs, Troodos documentaries, and unique nature-themed items to take home a piece of your mountain adventure.

UNESCO Byzantine Churches of Troodos: Sacred Art Hidden in the Forests

One of the most exceptional aspects of Troodos is its collection of Byzantine churches tucked away in lush forests and peaceful villages. All of them are part of Cyprus’ UNESCO World Heritage List, and each one is a masterpiece in its own right.

Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis Church (St. Nicholas of the Roof) — Located near Kakopetria village, on the west bank of the Klarios River, this is the only surviving building from an 11th-century monastery. A pitched roof was added in the 13th century to protect the dome from winter storms. Inside, you’ll find Byzantine frescoes, some dating back nearly a thousand years. Entrance is free, but the church is closed on Mondays.

Panagia tou Araka— This beautiful 12th-century chapel, located in Lagoudera village, about 15 km from Agros, is another architectural gem. The church contains frescoes by renowned painter Theodoros Apsevdis, including the Christ Pantocrator dome image. To visit, ask the locals for directions to the keyholder.

Panagia tis Asinou church — Situated about 3 km from Nikitari village in eastern Troodos, this church is the only preserved structure of a former 11th-century monastery. Its interior features remarkable frescoes of gospel scenes and saints. Open daily, from 9:30 to 16:00 (Mon–Sat) and 10:00 to 16:00 on Sundays and holidays. Admission is free.

Panagia Eleousa Church (Church of the Merciful Virgin) — This 16th-century Venetian-era church in Galata village showcases a fusion of Italian-Byzantine religious art. Ask for the keyholder’s contact information at a local café in the main village square.

Panagia tou Moutoulla church— Built in 1280, this is one of the earliest dated churches on the island, nestled in Moutoulla village. The frescoes blend Byzantine elements with stylistic influences from Western and Eastern Crusader cultures. Locals will help you find the keyholder.

The Church of Archangelos Michael in Pedoulas — Constructed in 1474, this church features striking frescoes by Minas, depicting stories from both the Old and New Testaments, including a vivid image of Archangel Michael. Open daily, free entry.

Church of Timios Stavros (Holy Cross) tou Agiasmati — Located about 5 km from Platanistasa village, this church displays a captivating mix of Byzantine, local folk, and Italian Renaissance art. If locked, ask villagers for the keyholder.

Timios Stavrou (Holy Cross) in Pelendri — Just a short drive from Limassol, this chapel is rich in religious art, including scenes such as the Presentation of the Virgin, the Dormition, and the Foot Washing of the Apostles. Free entry; ask around if doors are closed.

Transfiguration of the Saviour Church (Palaichori) — Built in the 16th century, this church contains frescoes of Christ’s life and biblical stories. Open Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 10:00 to 13:00, or by advance booking.

Agios Ioannis Lambadistis Monastery — Located east of Kalopanayiotis village, this monastery complex dates back to the 11th century, originally dedicated to Saint Irakleidios. A century later, it was renamed in honor of Saint Lampadistis, a miracle-working saint who passed away at just 22. Open Tuesday–Saturday (8:00–16:00) and Sunday (10:00–16:00) with a lunch break from 13:00 to 14:00. Entry is free.

Safari Tours in Troodos: The Most Adventurous Way to Discover Cyprus Mountains

If you’re seeking thrills and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Cyprus, quad bike safari tours in Troodos are exactly what you need. These adventures are perfect for fans of extreme sports and nature exploration.

Depending on your preferences and time, you can choose between:

• Half-day tours (3.5 hours)
• Full-day excursions (8 hours)
• Or an immersive 2-day safari with an overnight stay in the mountains

All tours include scenic off-road routes, traditional villages, mountain passes, and some truly spectacular views. You’ll drive through muddy trails, cross forest paths, and make stops at picturesque points of interest along the way. Meals are typically included in the package, and most tour providers offer guides and safety equipment.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, Troodos quad safaris offer a unique way to experience the natural beauty and hidden corners of the island that are hard to reach by car or on foot.

Why Visit Troodos Mountains in Cyprus

The Troodos mountain range is one of the most captivating destinations in Cyprus, offering something for everyone — from history and architecture lovers to nature explorers and adrenaline seekers.

In this guide, we’ve explored:

• The serene national park trails and biking routes
• Rich cultural heritage through UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches and monasteries
• Charming mountain villages, known for wine-making, crafts, and gastronomy
• The Troodos ski resort, the only place in Cyprus where you can enjoy winter sports
• And exciting quad bike safari tours that add adventure to your trip

Whether you’re interested in hiking, sightseeing, religious tourism, traditional Cypriot culture, or simply want to get away from the beach crowds, Troodos is a must-visit destination.

Plan your trip to Troodos today — and uncover one of Cyprus’s most magical, multifaceted, and refreshing regions.