Troodos National Forest / Mountain Resorts
The area has a wide network of different paths, suitable for all ages and fitness levels, as well as mountain biking. Skiing enthusiasts can enjoy the area during the winter months. Popular area attractions are the Troodos Environmental Information Centre, located 200 meters west of Troodos Square. The Center provides comprehensive information on the Troodos National Park, as well as general information about the geology, flora and fauna of the area. Another place to visit is Pano Platres, where the CTO (Cyprus Tourism Organization) has Information Office. Noteworthy is the fact that when someone walks in the Troodos actually descends into the bowels of the earth, since the top is a perfect piece of oceanic crust that occurs below the ocean depths to 8,000 meters into the core of the earth.
Tip: Visit Platania picnic site, 6km from Kakopetria and relax or take a stroll down the beautiful trees. Facilities include picnic tables, restaurant and play areas for children
Pitsilia
The area east of Mount Olympus is known as Pitsilia and comprises about 40 villages. The highest peak is the Madari (1612m) and Papoutsa (1554m). The picturesque villages built on the mountainside, amidst vineyards or spread in hidden valleys that still retain their traditional charm. The surrounding hills and valleys are full of vineyards, almond, hazelnut, walnut and other fruit trees. The changing landscape, the variety of shapes and colors, the old churches and chapels and the warm hospitality of its residents make the area of Pitsilia one of the most beautiful areas of Cyprus. The area of Pitsilia is accessible from either Limassol or Nicosia and is famous for both UNESCO heritage sites and for its traditional sausages / meat- wine products (many family workshops) traditional sweets, delicious fruit and rosewater.
Solea Valley:
The beautiful valley of Solea is the main Nicosia-Troodos road (56 km from Nicosia, 56 km from Limassol through Lower Asbestos). The picturesque mountain villages and mainly Kakopetria resorts are popular with a number of hotels and restaurants, and still maintain their traditional architecture. The area is famous for its Byzantine heritage as communities Kakopetria Galata and found two religious monuments included in the World Heritage List of UNESCO. Marathasa Valley: It is a fertile valley, known for its cherry trees, which is located on the northern slopes of the Troodos range. It is filled with picturesque villages like Kalopanagiotis, Moutoullas and Pedoulas. The area has long been known for its healing baths because of sulfur sources are mainly in Kalopanagiotis. The village in the recent years has generated intense activity regarding services agro tourism and operated spas for wellness tourism. Also in the area, is the famous Monastery of Kykkos, while there is a strong presence of wildlife, due to the presence among others of the Cyprus mouflon mainly in the communities Campos, Tsakkistra Milikouri. In the Community of Prodromos stands proudly but closed the famous Berengaria hotel which in the period of 1950-1980 has been the hotel of the Kings of the Mediterranean. Also the communities of South Marathasa are famous for their folk art.
Krasochoria
The area got its name from the strong presence of vineyards and wineries consequently exuberant. Areas of Koumandaria are on the southern slopes of the Troodos Mountains in the north of Limassol. The area is known for its local wine and traditional forms of viticulture are still kept alive. Guests are welcome to small wineries operating in some villages. In areas identified Wine Appellation of Controlled Origin (WCNO) is including ‘Koumandaria “a sweet wine, « vin de Commanderie » dating from the time of the Order of the Knights Templar, and is believed to be one of the oldest named wine in the world, after mentioned by name for eight centuries.
Tip: Visit Omodos village, with its charming cobblestone streets, museums, the monastery (Monument II) and preserved folk architecture.
