CategoriesCulture Destination Food & Wine Lifestyle Nature Sports Tips & Tricks By xenio

Troodos Mountains

The Troodos Mountains in Cyprus offer a beautiful natural setting and a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some popular places to visit and things to do in the Troodos Mountains:

1. Mount Olympus: Hike to the highest peak in Cyprus, Mount Olympus, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

2. Troodos Square: Visit the quaint Troodos Square, surrounded by traditional villages, restaurants, and cafes, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

3. Kykkos Monastery: Explore the renowned Kykkos Monastery, known for its Byzantine art and architecture, as well as its significant religious and cultural importance.

4. Caledonia Waterfalls: Take a scenic hike to the Caledonia Waterfalls, located in the Paphos Forest, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area.

5. Troodos Botanic Gardens: Discover the diverse flora and fauna of the Troodos Mountains at the Troodos Botanic Gardens, featuring various plant species and well-maintained paths.

6. Wineries: Explore the wineries in the region and indulge in wine tasting sessions, experiencing the unique flavors and traditions of Cypriot wine.

7. Village Visits: Explore the charming traditional villages scattered throughout the Troodos Mountains, such as Kakopetria, Platres, and Omodos, and appreciate the cultural heritage and local craftsmanship.

8. Skiing: During the winter months, enjoy skiing and snowboarding on the slopes of Mount Olympus, as the Troodos Mountains offer the only ski resort in Cyprus.

9. Nature Trails: Experience the natural beauty of the Troodos Mountains by taking one of the many well-marked hiking trails, allowing you to explore forests, meadows, and stunning viewpoints.

10. Byzantine Churches: Visit the numerous Byzantine churches and monasteries in the region, such as Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis, boasting incredible frescoes and a rich religious history.

11. Picnicking: Enjoy a picnic in one of the many designated picnic areas throughout the Troodos Mountains, surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful nature.

12. Mountain Biking: For the adventure enthusiasts, explore the Troodos Mountains on a mountain bike, with various trails and routes suitable for different skill levels.

These are just a few of the many attractions and activities available in the Troodos Mountains. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, or simply a tranquil escape, the Troodos Mountains provide a unique and picturesque destination to explore.

CategoriesCulture Destination Food & Wine Lifestyle Nature By xenio

Cyprus a popular holiday destination

There are several reasons why Cyprus is a popular holiday destination. Here are some compelling reasons to visit Cyprus:

1. Beautiful Beaches: Cyprus is home to stunning sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

2. Rich History and Culture: Cyprus has a captivating history that dates back thousands of years, with a blend of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, archaeological sites, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

3. Delicious Cuisine: Cyprus offers a diverse culinary scene, with a mix of traditional Cypriot dishes and international cuisines. Don’t miss out on trying souvlaki, halloumi cheese, and traditional meze.

4. Outdoor Activities: The island’s diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and coastlines, provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, diving, and golfing.

5. Vibrant Nightlife: Cyprus, particularly cities like Ayia Napa and Limassol, is known for its vibrant nightlife, with buzzing bars, clubs, and beach parties.

6. Wine Country: Cyprus boasts a rich tradition of winemaking, with several wineries to explore. Take a wine tour, taste local varieties, and learn about the island’s wine-making history.

7. Warm Climate: Cyprus enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with long, sunny summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination for year-round beach holidays.

8. Friendly Locals: Cypriot people are known for their hospitality, warmth, and friendliness, making visitors feel welcome and comfortable.

9. Shopping: Cyprus offers a range of shopping opportunities, from modern malls and designer boutiques to traditional markets selling local crafts, ceramics, and textiles.

10. Easy to Explore: With its relatively small size, it’s easy to explore Cyprus and visit multiple destinations during your holiday, experiencing the diverse landscapes and attractions the island has to offer.

Overall, Cyprus offers a combination of natural beauty, rich history, delicious cuisine, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it an enticing destination for a holiday.

CategoriesFood & Wine By xenio

Mystes Winery

Mystes is the next generation of Cypriot wines. A newly established boutique family winery committed to producing wines of the highest caliber and distinction, each expressing the unique terroir of the property, located in Archimandrita village about 33 kilometers east of Paphos at an altitude of 550 meters, in the heart of the wine-producing area.

Visitors will be guided through a modern family winery and get introduced to the principles of organic cultivation of the vine and the “secrets” of wine. Visitors have the opportunity to do some wine tasting while enjoying spectacular views of the valley.

CategoriesFood & Wine By xenio

Cyprus Wine Routes

The island’s longstanding tradition of winemaking needs no further proof than its claim to the world’s oldest named wine still in production – that of Commandaria, proclaimed by Richard the Lionheart as the “wine of the kings and the king of the wines.” And whilst the same ancient grape varieties are still cultivated; and the same villages produce wine in the old, traditional ways, the island’s wine industry has also vastly modernized, progressed, and expanded. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a simple lover of the drink that locals once worshipped as the ‘nectar of the Gods, you will delight in discovering a host of charming wineries and wine growing regions along seven glorious wine routes.

From the high, southern slopes of the Troodos mountain range, to a stunning stretch between Limassol and Paphos, and the rural areas of Larnaca and Nicosia routes are all sign-posted and will take you through valleys of indigenous grape varieties, picture-perfect landscapes, and a journey of knowledge about the island’s intrinsic viticultural roots.

Along the way, you will be welcomed warmly at quaint villages and wineries, where you can sample choice vintages, learn from the locals, and even find a wine museum or two. After all, the art of wine in Cyprus is more than simply a way of life; it is an inherent passion with roots that go even deeper than those of its vines.