High Quality Maps of the Troodos area of Cyprus
Walking in Cyprus: 44 walks in the South and the North
A Birdwatching Guide To Cyprus
Troodos - Majesty, Heritage … and Skiing Too!
Birdwatchers, botanists, geologists, ramblers, bikers, photographers and nature lovers seeking a relaxing break away from the cosmopolitan coastal resorts will all be delighted and constantly astonished by the beauty and the sheer majesty of the Troodos massif.
The impressive Troodos mountains offer freshness and excitement during the journey up the winding mountain paths. Just like Aphrodite, the mountain is supposed to have emerged from the sea about 92 million years ago. See the dizzy views from the almost 2000m high mountain of Olympos and enjoy the fragrant pine trees. Go for walks and see unusual flora and fauna such as cedar tree valleys, the shy moufflon sheep and all the charming little hamlets. You can ski in winter. And don't miss the largest monastery, Kykko.
Byzantine churches full of icons, frescos and art can be found in the Troodos area, all World Heritage sites.
Nature has been particularly generous to Troodos. Its lower slopes alternate between terraced vineyards and the Phoenician juniper maquis, found in abundance near the coast, sprinkled in places with pink rock rose and wild lavender. Bright green pine trees and majestic cedars dominate in the higher elevations. Troodos is an area of extreme natural beauty throughout the year. Whether escaping the summer heat, walking or cycling along scenic routes in spring or autumn or sipping a hot beverage after a demanding skiing descent in winter, Troodos is a place for all seasons.
The best way to explore Troodos is by car or through an organised coach excursion. The area is divided into five regions, grouped around Olympos, the island's highest mountain:
- Limassol mountain resorts, around the central higher elevations of the range.
- Pitsilia region (north and south), to the east.
- Solea valley, to the north.
- Marathasa valley, to the west.
- Krassochoria (wine villages) and Koumandaria region, to the south.
For a detailed guide containing everything that one would want to know about Cyprus, we recommend the DK Eyewitness Cyprus Travel Guide which is full of maps and beautiful photographs of every area of the island.
