The Grand Hiking Tour of Troodos

Duration

8 days/ 7 nights

Discover Cyprus on foot with this 8-day guided hiking adventure through the Troodos Mountains. From UNESCO Geopark trails, Venetian bridges, and hidden waterfalls to wine villages, cooking workshops, and rare wildlife, this journey blends breathtaking nature with authentic culture and tradition — an immersive exploration of Cyprus’ timeless mountain heart.

    Embark on an unforgettable 8-day hiking journey through the Troodos Mountains, where every trail reveals centuries-old history, rich biodiversity, and authentic Cypriot culture. From UNESCO Geopark trails and medieval stone bridges to hidden waterfalls, wine villages, and cooking workshops, this program blends nature, adventure, and tradition into one immersive experience.
    Your adventure begins with arrival in Paphos or Larnaca and transfer to your hotel in the Troodos Mountains. Over the next days, you will hike some of Cyprus most spectacular trails. To complement the hikes, enjoy hands-on activities and local experiences.
    The journey ends with a relaxed departure transfer, leaving you with memories of mountains, trails, and traditions that make Cyprus truly timeless.

    Highlights 

    • Hike across UNESCO Geopark trails including Teisia tis Madaris, Atalanti,  and Madari-Stelladi tou Karamanli.
    • Walk the legendary Venetian Bridges trail, discovering four medieval bridges hidden in pine forests.
    • Explore UNESCO World Heritage churches: Panagia tou Araka, Stavros tou Agiasmati, and Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis.
    • Discover Kaledonia Waterfall and the pristine forests of Pouziaris.
    • Engage in orienteering adventure at Adventure Mountain Park.
    • Experience authentic wine tasting at a local Winery.
    • Take part in a hands-on cooking class and feast in a Troodos village.
    • Visit the Moufflon Reserve and spot Cyprus rare wild sheep.
    • Learn ancient perfume-making at the Cyprus Perfume Park.
    • Stroll through Omodos, Kakopetria, Platres, and Foini villages, rich in history, crafts, and local flavors.

Itinerary

Welcome to Cyprus! Upon arrival at Pafos or Larnaca Airport, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel in the Troodos Mountains, where you can relax and prepare for the hiking adventure ahead.

    Morning Transfer & Geopark Visit
    After breakfast, transfer to the Troodos Geopark for a guided visit. Learn about the unique geology of the Troodos mountain range, a UNESCO-recognized site, before continuing to the starting point of todays hike.

    Hike – Teisia tis Madaris Trail
    Set out on the Teisia tis Madaris (Circular) Trail, a spectacular UNESCO Geological Trail that loops through the Adelphi Forest within the Madari–Papoutsa Natura 2000 area. The route reveals striking vertical rock formations (Teichia), dramatic natural walls shaped by millions of years of erosion. Along the way, panoramic views stretch across Solia, Mesaoria Plain, Pitsilia, and Limassol district.

    Trail Details

    • Distance: 3 km
    • Difficulty: Easy
    • Type: Loop
    • Hiking time: 1 hour 46 minutes (moving 59 min)
    • Elevation: Max 1,550 m / Min 1,440 m

     

    Highlights

    • Unique vertical rock formations, panoramic mountain and valley views, insight into Troodos geological heritage.

     

    Afternoon Adventure 

    Orienteering in the ForestContinue to the Adventure Mountain Park, where you will take part in a fun and skillful orienteering activity. Learn how to navigate with only a map and compass, racing against time to find hidden checkpoints among the pines. Suitable for all levels, this activity blends strategy, outdoor skills, and physical challenge, while offering a chance to enjoy the forest setting. (Optional lunch available at the park restaurant before the activity begins.)

    Winery Visit & Return to Hotel

    Round off the day with a visit to a local family-run winery (optional). Tour the vineyards and cellars, discover the secrets of Cypriot winemaking, and enjoy a tasting session paired with local delicacies. Afterwards, transfer back to the hotel for a relaxing evening.

    Morning Transfer & Start of Hike
    After breakfast, transfer from the hotel to Arminou Dam, the starting point of todays hike. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Troodos foothills and surrounding countryside.

    Hike – Venetian Medieval Bridges Trail
    Embark on the Venetian Medieval Bridges Trail, a spectacular 7-hour hike connecting four historic stone bridges: Tzelefos, Elias, Treis Elies, and Mylos. This route combines natural beauty and history, taking you through dense pine forests, over rivers, and across dramatic gorges, with panoramic views along the way. The trail highlights Cyprus medieval engineering and the scenic charm of the Paphos countryside.

    Trail Details

    • Distance: 21,92 km
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Type: Loop
    • Hiking time: ~7 hrs (moving ~4 hrs 45 min)
    • Elevation: Max 753 m / Min 438 m

     

    Highlights:

    • Tzelefos Bridge: largest medieval stone arch in Cyprus
    • Elias Bridge: small arched bridge in an olive grove
    • Treis Bridge: historic stone arch surrounded by pine forest
    • Mylos Bridge: connects to traditional mills and scenic valleys
    • Panoramic views of gorges, rivers, and forested hills

     

    Afternoon Visit – Omodos Village
    After completing the hike, transfer to Omodos Village. Explore its cobbled streets, visit the Timios Stavros Monastery, and discover local history, artisan shops, and the Linos Wine Press Museum. Optionally, enjoy a traditional Cypriot meze meal at Mavri Xina restaurant.

    Return to Hotel
    After a full day of hiking and cultural immersion, transfer back to the hotel to relax and enjoy the evening.

    Morning – Breakfast & Transfer

    After breakfast, we depart from the hotel and transfer (approx. 35 minutes) to Kannoures, the starting point of today’s hike. Located just before Troodos Square along the Karvounas–Troodos road, this spot offers immediate access to one of the regions most scenic river-valley trails.

    Hiking Experience – Forest Valleys, UNESCO Heritage & Village Charm

    Our hike today follows the Kannoures–Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis Trail, a 12 km route (~4 hrs) that winds through the lush Karkotis River valley. The path begins at the rivers source, leading us through shaded woodlands, past the remnants of a closed chrome mine, and onward towards the charming mountain village of Kakopetria. The trail blends natural beauty with cultural treasures, making it both rewarding and immersive.

    Trail Details

    • Distance: 14,03 km
    • Difficulty: Moderate 
    • Type: Linear 
    • Hiking time: 5 hours 32 minutes (Moving time
      4 hours 6 minutes)
    • Elevation: Max 1648 m / Min 1027 m

     

    Highlights

    • Scenic landscapes along the Karkotis River valley
    • Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis Church (UNESCO World Heritage) with preserved frescoes
    • Traditional watermills and stone bridges along the path
    • Rich flora and fauna of the Troodos ecosystem
    • Arrival in the picturesque village of Kakopetria

     

    Afternoon – Kakopetria, Waterfalls & Moufflon Reserve

    After completing the hike, we arrive in Kakopetria, a picturesque Troodos village where narrow cobbled streets, stone-built houses, and wooden balconies create a timeless mountain atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through the old quarter, admire the blend of nature and tradition along the Karkotis River, and enjoy a pause at a traditional café with Cypriot coffee or a cool refreshment while soaking in the authentic village charm.

    From Kakopetria, we continue to Platania Waterfalls, a serene retreat hidden in pine-covered forest. A short walk leads to the cascading waters, where the cool, crystal-clear flow creates a tranquil spot for relaxation and photography.

    Later, we visit the Moufflon Reserve at Platania, home to the rare Cyprus moufflon (Ovis gmelini ophion), an emblematic wild sheep species unique to the island. Once nearly extinct, the moufflon has been successfully preserved and now symbolizes Cyprus natural heritage. The reserve offers a rare opportunity to observe these graceful animals in a protected setting surrounded by forest landscapes.

    Optional stop: A traditional meal at Restaurant Platanion.

    Evening – Return to Hotel

    In the late afternoon, we transfer back to the hotel . The rest of the evening is free to relax or enjoy optional leisure time.

    Morning – Breakfast & Transfer

    After breakfast, we depart from the hotel and transfer to Lagouderá village, where todays hike begins. The trail connects two of Cyprus most remarkable Byzantine monuments, starting at the Church of Panagia tou Araka and leading through forested slopes and valleys to the Church of Stavros tou Agiasmati. Both churches are UNESCO World Heritage sites, known for their rich frescoes and unique timber-roofed architecture.

    Hiking Experience – Byzantine Heritage in Nature

    The Panagia tou Araka – Stavros tou Agiasmati Trail offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The route passes through dense pine and oak forests, wildflower meadows, and river valleys, with gentle ascents and descents along well-marked paths.

    Along the way, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the Madari range, encounter traditional rural landscapes, and pause at scenic rest points. 

    Trail Details

    • Distance: 20.03 km 
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Type: Loop
    • Hiking time: 5 hours 21 minutes (Moving time
      3 hours 59 minutes)
    • Elevation: Max 1,185 m / Min 609 m

     

    Highlights

    • UNESCO churches: Panagia tou Araka & Stavros tou Agiasmati
    • Byzantine frescoes and timber-roofed architecture
    • Forest trails, wildflowers, and serene mountain landscapes
    • Scenic views of the Madari mountains
    • Quiet, rural atmosphere with cultural significance

     

    Afternoon – Cooking Experience in Arakapas (Optional)

    In the afternoon, guests may join an optional excursion to Arakapas village for a hands-on Cypriot cooking class at Cocones.

    • Warm Welcome: A refreshing drink (herbal tea, fresh juice, or local wine) and a selection of traditional bites.
    • Cooking Class: Guided by local chefs, participants learn authentic Cypriot recipes and techniques while preparing a 5-course meal, including appetizer, seasonal salad, main dish (with meat, vegetarian & vegan options), and dessert. Local wines are paired throughout the session.
    • Dining Together: Guests enjoy the meal they created in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere, learning stories and traditions of Cypriot cuisine.
    • Keepsake Gift: One week later, participants receive a PDF of all recipes plus a short video compilation of the experience.

     

    Evening – Return to Hotel

    After the cooking class and feast, we transfer back to the hotel for a restful evening.

    Morning – Breakfast & Transfer

    After breakfast, we depart from the hotel and head to Troodos Square, the starting point of todays hike. Surrounded by cool pine forests at an elevation of 1,750 m, this is the gateway to the famous Atalanti Trail, one of the most scenic circular routes in the Troodos Mountains.

    Hiking Experience – Around Mount Olympus

    The Atalanti Trail is a 14 km circular path that encircles the slopes of Mount Olympus, Cyprus highest peak. The trail maintains a relatively even altitude, making it accessible and enjoyable for most hikers while still offering spectacular views.

    Along the route, we pass through dense black pine forests, endemic flora unique to the Troodos ecosystem, and striking rock formations. The trail features interpretive signs highlighting local geology, wildlife, and history. Several panoramic viewpoints open onto the Mesaoria plain, Limassol Bay, and even the Pentadaktylos mountains on clear days.

    Trail Details

    • Distance: 14 km
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Type: Loop
    • Hiking time: 3 hours 34 minutes (Moving time
      3 hours 2 minutes)                  
    • Elevation: Max 1,815 m / Min 1,712 m

    Highlights

    • Encircling Mount Olympus at high altitude
    • Shaded black pine and juniper forests
    • Rare and endemic plants of the Troodos ecosystem
    • Interpretive panels on geology and biodiversity
    • Panoramic views of Cyprus from multiple vantage points

     

    Afternoon – Cyprus Perfume Park (Optional)

    In the afternoon, guests may opt to visit the Cyprus Perfume Park, an interactive cultural and sensory experience.

    Guided Tour: Discover the history of Cypriot perfumery from antiquity to modern times, with live demonstrations of ancient fragrance-making techniques.

    Workshops & Experiences:

    • Hands-on distillation workshop using traditional methods.
    • Create your own personal scent.
    • Learn how meat was baked in ancient clay ovens, followed by a tasting session and lunch of traditional, healthy dishes.
    • This immersive visit combines history, gastronomy, and creativity, offering a unique way to connect with Cyprus heritage through the senses.

     

    Evening – Return to Hotel

    After the workshop and dinner, we transfer back to the hotel for the evening.

    Morning – Breakfast & Transfer

    After breakfast, we depart from the hotel  to the Kaledonia Nature Trail starting point, nestled in the Troodos Mountains near Platres. Today combines two of the regions most iconic trails, offering both natural wonders and panoramic views, before concluding with a visit to the traditional village of Foini.

    Hiking Experience – Waterfalls, Forests & Mountain Views

    Our hike begins along the Kaledonia Trail, a short but enchanting 3 km linear path. The trail follows the banks of the Krios Potamos (Cold River), shaded by plane and pine trees, and leads us to the Kaledonia Waterfall. The sound of running water and cool mountain air make this a refreshing start to the day.

    From here, we continue with the Pouziaris Trail, a 9 km circular route that showcases the rich biodiversity of Troodos. At several points, the trail offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Troodos peaks and surrounding valleys, making it one of the most rewarding hikes in the region.

    Trail Details

    Distance: 7,84 km

    Difficulty: Difficult

    Type: Circular (loop)

    Hiking time: 5 hours 49 minutes (Moving time
    3 hours 35 minutes)

    Elevation: Max 1,652 m / Min 0 m

    Highlights

    • Shaded riverside walk along the Cold River
    • Kaledonia Waterfall, with year-round running water
    • Calabrian and black pine forests of Troodos
    • Panoramic mountain views from higher points
    • Combination of two distinct but complementary trails

     

    Afternoon – Platres & Foini Village Exploration

    After the hike, we enjoy a short break in Platres, one of Cyprus most beloved mountain resorts. A leisurely stroll through the village reveals traditional stone houses and inviting cafés where guests can enjoy a Cypriot coffee or refreshment.

    We then continue to Foini Village, famous for its sweet traditions. Here, visitors can explore experience a highlight at Ourania Delights, where traditional loukoumia (Cyprus delights) are made. Tastings of these handmade sweets provide a delicious end to the cultural visit.

    Optional: Lunch at Neraida Restaurant, where the specialty is freshly prepared Troodos trout, served with authentic Cypriot flavors in a warm village setting.

    Evening – Return to Hotel

    Following the village visit, we transfer back to the hotel for a relaxing final evening.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time at the hotel for a final stroll, a quiet coffee, or last-minute packing before departure. At the scheduled time, we transfer to Paphos or Larnaca Airport for the return flight.

Included
    • 7 nights accommodation in a mountain hotel in Troodos.
    • Daily breakfast at the hotel.
    • All airport transfers (Paphos or Larnaca).
    • All transfers for hikes and activities as per itinerary.
    • Professional English-speaking hiking guide throughout.
    • Entrance fees to sites, parks, and reserves mentioned in the program.
    • Guided activities: Geopark visit, Adventure Mountain Park orienteering, Winery visit, Perfume Park experience, cooking class, and village explorations.
    • Emergency support & assistance.
Excluded
    • International flights to/from Cyprus.
    • Lunches & dinners (except those clearly included: winery tastings, cooking class feast, optional restaurant meals).
    • Optional activities and meals marked as “optional” in the program.
    • Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, tips).
    • Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
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For more information about this package, contact us by phone: +357 26 221 203 or by email: reservations@qualiday.com