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Mayiopoula Restaurant In Nicosia, Cyprus – Is It Worth The Hype?

Tia — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 20:48:27 +0000

This article is a restaurant review of Mayiopoula Wine And Dine restaurant in Nicosia, Cyprus.

Is Mayiopoula worth its hype, and price tag? Does it deserve a place in the shortlist of Nicosia’s fine dining restaurants?

Keep reading to find out!

Located in the heart of the capital, Mayiopoula – Wine & Dine is ideal for both business lunches and leisurely dinners.

Naturally, I was excited to visit for lunch and give you my honest review below!

The interior

Mayiopoula has been given a new menu and a beautiful new identity – that is both cozy, and elegant. It exhumes class, without it feeling over the top or pretentious.

Outdoor seating

It was a particularly windy and cold day when I visited Mayiopoula.

So imagine my surprise when we were seated outside and I felt as comfortable as ever!

I immediately took off my coat and sat comfortably for a total of 3 hours without ever feeling cold.

Clearly, This restaurant has – hands down – the best insulation I’ve ever seen on the island.

The decor is discreetly luxurious, with the same understated, classy feel that you witness throughout the restaurant.

Mayiopoula Menu

The lunch menu is beautifully simple, although it doesn’t leave too many options for people who don’t like fish and seafood, and almost none for vegans.

Vegans can choose to have the baked cauliflower, and the truffle and mushroom tagliatelle – if they can make it without the parmesan cream.

Personally, I would have liked the addition of a fillet or rib-eye steak (which is available at dinner) and a duck or pork plate too.

Having said that, I have seen their dinner menu and it is more varied!

Rating 4/5

Mayiopoula Star Dishes

Starter – Burrata Salad

Fresh burrata cheese, plum cherry tomatoes, rusk bread, basil, chives, sherry vinaigrette make a truly stunning dish, and definitely the highlight of our lunch!

The Impossibly creamy burrata, the perfectly seasoned tomatoes… there were explosions going on in my mouth! Absolute perfection to say the least.

This is a dish I will be ordering again, and again!

5/5 – with an exclamation point!

Mains: Grilled Prawns Orzo

This was in the specials menu, although it has a permanent spot on their dinner menu.

It is cooked with Greek kakavia sauce, grilled tiger prawns, cherry tomato, parsley, basil, and lemon zest.

The dish was actually excellent, with the prawns being cooked to buttery perfection, and the orzo not too thick and beautifully supplemented by the ripe cherry tomatoes!

A dish that isn’t heavy on the stomach either so an easy choice all around.

Price: 29 euros

Rating: 4.9.5. I’m taking away at 5/5 rating I wanted to give because I wasn’t able to remove the onion from the tomato sauce.

I have IBS so onions are something I avoid, but I was set on the dish and chose to order it anyway regardless!

Main Dish: Grilled Chicken and Wild Rice

Grilled and marinated with herbs, lemon and lemon zest served with basmati wild rice & seasonal vegetables.

At first, It looked bland and maybe overcooked a bit.

But it was actually beautifully cooked and seasoned!

A perfect calorie-controlled dish too, so it’s a yes from me!

Price 17 euros

Rating 4.9/5

Desert – Lemon Baked Alaska

The choices for deserts on our lunch were Baked Alaska and the Apple Tart tannin.

The dinner menu includes more mouthwatering options like baked chocolate souffle and homemade ice cream and sorbet!

The Lemon baked Alaska was quite possibly the best dessert I have had – in years.

It is a Lemon tart ice cream, almond crumble and lemon zest meringue served with berry sauce and fresh seasonal berries, and it is truly spectacular.

The smooth meringue marries beautifully with the crunchy crumble, and each spoonful provides a burst of tangy lemon and sweet berries.

Extra points for the plating, which as you can see, is a masterpiece!

Price: 7.5 Euros

Rating 5/5

Mayiopoula Restaurant – The Service

The service was excellent, from the moment we arrived until the moment we left!

The only thing I would say is that we waited about 30 mins in between our starters to the mains, which is a rather long time to wait.

Having said that, I didn’t particularly mind, as I was warm and cozy, had a glass of wine in my hand, and didn’t have anywhere to be.

Rating: 5/5

Mayiopoula Review – The Verdict

So is Mayiopoula Wine & Dine worth its hype and slightly elevated price tag? Absolutely, YES!

In fact, I personally find that it ranks pretty high on my list of fab Cypriot gastronomy, and provides a truly enjoyable dining and tasting experience!

The chef, Andreas Andreou has clearly poured his heart and soul into the menu of Mayiopoula, and the results are evident for all of us to see and enjoy!

So if you are in Nicosia and you wish to impress, look no further than Mayiopoula, and I can guarantee you will not be disappointed.

For bookings, click here

Thank you for reading my review of Mayiopoula!

Make sure you subscribe with your email down below, to receive my travel newsletter every month and take advantage of the travel discounts!

Also, join my travel family on Instagram, and let’s stay connected.

Tia x

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Adventure Park Cyprus – Fun Days Out In Kyperounta

Tia — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 06:36:27 +0000

Adventure Park Cyprus is a fantastic mountain park in the beautiful village of Kyperounta. The village is the District of Limassol, and specifically, in the area of Pitsilia.

Located in the Troodos Mountains at an altitude of 1300 meters, is the highest village in Cyprus and one of the most picturesque ones too!

Along with other fantastic activities to do in Kyperounta, like wine tasting, religious tourism, and hiking, this adventure park is THE place to be, if you love outdoor sports, or simply fancy a fun day out!

After all, Adventure Mountain Park is the longest-running provider of quality outdoor adventures in Cyprus!

The park is renowned for its extensive range of skills-based adventure sports activities and its surrounding breath-taking nature trails and views.

There are so many activities to try, whether alone, or with friends, and a great deal of them will test your team-building activities too.

Corporate Team-Building Activities

Adventure Mountain Park offers fantastic corporate team-building experiences with various games and activities, like Compass games and Corporate Paintball activities.

These activities are all designed to enhance social relationships and build teamwork skills, communication, organization, and decision-making.

In this adventure park heaven, there are tons of activities for you to try! Personally, I tried archery, rock climbing, and orientation! Here is some useful info below.

Adventure Park Cyprus – Archery

One of my favorite activities at the mountain park was archery, that is a much-loved sport through the ages. This game entails technique, concentration, and strong mental focus.

Suitable from age 8 and up, archery will test your aim, balance, and concentration!

Orienteering

Orienteering…Lord knows I needed that lesson, (and possibly 10 more of those) as I am the queen of getting lost everywhere I go!

It’s an exciting outdoor adventure sport that combines mental and physical ability, as well as map reading and direction finding skills, to enable a participant to navigate routes between isolated control points using just a compass and a map.

Taking place in the forest next to Adventure Mountain Park, participants (aged 8 and up) have to find their way along unfamiliar courses located between checkpoints. Either by running or walking, you and your team must determine the best route to complete the task in the fastest time.

This game is best for quick decision-making and navigation skills. All gear including control flags and control cards will be provided by the park.

Adventure Park Cyprus – Rock Climbing

This was so much fun and a real challenge for me! Rock climbing is no doubt one of the most exciting and adrenaline-fueled outdoor adventures that you can experience at Adventure Mountain Park.

It definitely pushes the body and mind and requires determination, perseverance, coordination, physical strength, intuition, and good instincts too. To climb up, you need to release the pressure from your legs, and use your upper body to pull yourself up bit by bit.

Whether you are a beginner or an expert climber, there are instructors and professional equipment to help you learn to climb the artificial rock wall, quickly progressing in ways that you may never have thought possible to accomplish.

During my time there, they were right there, instructing me and encouraging me every step of the way!

Rock climbing is available all year round for anyone aged 8 and up.

Laser maze

This was so hilarious! Inside this dark labyrinth, you must avoid any touch on the light beams of the maze to reach the exit door without the system sirens sounding.

If you touch a light beam during the game you will have to return to the beginning. Good luck climbing, crawling, and bending over backward to avoid the laser lights – a feat that turns more difficult as there is a 30-minute timer too!

You need a lot of strategic moves, patience, and careful movements! Participation is from 1 to 3 people at a time.

Other activities at Adventure Mountain Park Cyprus

Paintball. Get ready for so many laughs! This is the perfect choice of adventure to experience action, determination and fun! Available all year round, the minimum number of people required to participate is 4 and is suitable from From 14 years and up.
Woodland Paintball. Woodland paintball is the same experience except it’s played out in the forest located next to the park. Hiding beneath trees and bushes, and navigating the mounainous terrain makes it so much more exciting! Woodland Paintball is available during autumn and spring and requires a minimum of 12 people (aged 14 and up) to participate.
Laser Tag. An alternative sport to paintball, Laser tag is safer and suitable for children too. Played in teams, players tag their opponents with infrared light instead of paint. So while slightly less forceful or high-impact than paintball – the action, thrill and excitement of laser tag remains absolutely the same. Suitable from age 8 and up, this is a fab idea for kids birthday parties too.
Tyrolean Traverse. Used to ascend and descend spires, negotiate rivers or reach a detached pillar, Tyrolean Traverse is the perfect adventure if you want to climb a pillar that you don’t want to abseil. New to Adventure Mountain Park, this activity teaches you the method of crossing through free space between two high points on a rope. For anyone aged 8 or above, test your limits with this uniquely fun extreme sport within a safe environment and under the guidance of a qualified supervisor.

Food and Drink at Adventure Park Cyprus

Adventure Mountain Park is also known for its local Cypriot cuisine with a twist!

Additionally, you’ll find a range of traditional Cypriot wines, coffee, or desserts for you to experience, as well as tea made with herbs obtained from their own Botanical Garden. I can personally vouch for the orange pie – it is to die for!

The restaurant can be enjoyed throughout the year, be it by the warmth of our crackling fireplace in the winter or beneath the stars in the summer.

Other Awesome Things To Do In Adventure Park Cyprus

Trekking

The team at Adventure Mountain Park can arrange a variety of walking trips for all size groups, with qualified guides on hand to lead guided tours or to provide suggestions to those who are interested in taking the walks.

Exploring the native species of Cypriot flora and fauna while trekking through the spectacular forests and incredible nature trails that abound here instill a sense of relaxation that’s quite unprecedented.

At the same time, the trails are divided according to their level of difficulty so whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a trek akin to intensive cardio exercise, there is a path available for all, even the most adventurous.

Camping Site

Are you a fan of sleeping under the stars? Then you are in luck!

At Adventure Mountain Park, you can experience overnight stays in the heart of nature, surrounded by a beautifully rugged landscape and spectacular mountain views.

Adventure Mountain Park will provide you with the basic camping equipment including tents and barbeque while you can book the camping site exclusively for your team.

Botanical Garden

The garden contains an array of herbs providing you the opportunity to see, taste, and smell them getting a unique experience of the quintessential tastes of Cypriot flora.

Children’s play area

Adults can relax in the garden, or indulge in sports, while your child be entertained by the choice of toys in the children’s play area

Opening hours

Winter Season: (November-March). Daily (except Monday) Daily From 08:00 to 18:00
Summer Season: (April-October). Daily (except Monday) from 09:00 to 20:00

For reservations call +357 97772177 and +357 99674126

Thank you for checking out the Adventure Park Cyprus in Kyperounta with me! Tag me in your posts and stories on Instagram so I can share your adventures!

Love, Tia x

Diving In Cyprus – And The Incredible Museum Of Underwater Sculptures

Tia — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 14:31:58 +0000

Diving in Cyprus is an activity that should not be missed while spending time on the island!

From the world-famous Zenobia wreck to the turtle heaven in Green Bay, and now, the incredible Musan – Ayia Napa’s brand new underwater sculpture museum.

Keep reading to find out details about diving in Cyprus and Musan, as well as tips for the best diving lessons, and a list of other awesome places to dive on the island!

Is Diving good in Cyprus?

Hell yeah, it is! Cyprus’s warm climate means sea temperatures of 25 degrees all the way into October – which means comfortable diving for longer!

The island’s spectacular beaches have also been awarded the ”cleanest waters in Europe” – which in turn means great visibility when scuba diving.

Combine this with the numerous shipwrecks, and caves, and you’ve got yourself a winner!

My Diving Journey

Personally, I have wanted to scuba dive for years. And each year, I chickened out.

While I am a good swimmer and snorkeler, the thought of being so far down into the bed of the sea… Panic mode ON!

In my trips to Belize, Costa Rica, and Thailand – I realized exactly what I was missing out on.

Especially as all 3 are a diver’s paradise, and Belize is home to the world-famous Blue Hole.

I was so upset at myself, I ended up snorkeling with nurse sharks to make myself feel better!

Where can I learn how to dive?

Hands down, you need to get yourself to Aquanaut Diving School! The school is located in the beautiful Green Bay Protaras – a beautiful beach favored by turtles.

That is where you will find Theo – the man responsible for teaching me how to dive, and getting over my fear of the unknown!

Theo, and the entire Aquanaut Diving School, are pure professionals, that will teach you everything you need to know to feel safe, and really enjoy the incredible experience of Scuba Diving.

Additionally, they are fun-loving, free-flowing people – and sometimes, that is a great thing. Personally, I often take myself way too seriously and miss out on all the fun!

How many Diving Certificates are there, and what is the cost?

First up you will need to start with your Open Water Certificate – which requires 5 dives. ( You can dive into Musan Ayia Napa with this diploma).

Once you are hooked ( and you will be) you can go on and schedule more lessons for more advanced certificates for diving into wrecks etcetera.

The most popular courses go as follows:

Open Water NAUI/PADI
Advanced Open Water
Master Scuba Diver
Scuba Master

Click here for the prices of these courses at Aquanaut Diving School

Where can I dive in Cyprus?

Prepare to submerge yourselves into a world of shipwrecks, caves, and eerie sculptures in the bed of the sea!

Musan Underwater Sculture Museum – Ayia Napa

Hauntingly beautiful and eerily peaceful, the MUSAN is a unique site in the Mediterranean Sea where you can see a large-scale sculpture by world-renowned artist Jason De Caires Taylor.

When diving in Cyprus, a visit to Musan is an absolute must – both for scuba divers, freedivers, and snorkelers too!

MUSAN is located on the edge of a protected marine area. If you are lucky, you might even get to see turtles, exotic fish, and sea urchins.

Do I need a booking to Visit Musan?

According to MUSAN, visitors need to book their reservations through a diving school like Aquanaut (even for free diving and snorkeling).

Diving in Musan is actually free ( For 2021) but the scuba diving school will charge you their own fee.

This means that you do not need to have your own equipment. The diving school will provide you with everything you need!

Prices are approx 25 euros for snorkeling/ freediving and 70 euros for scuba diving.

Disclaimer: The park can either be accessed by boat from the Ayia Napa harbor ( hence the change) or by the beach from Pernera Beach. Access from the beach to the park is 200m, which is super easy for scuba divers but might be tiring for snorkelers and freedivers.

Do I need To be a certified diver?

Yes, for scuba diving at the museum, the visitors are required to be certified scuba divers. (NAUI, Open water Scuba diver, Padi / SSI / SDI / RAID Open water, CMAS 1 star or equivalent).

Certifications should be by any of these internationally recognized certifying organizations (PADI, NAUI, CMAS, RAID, SSI, SDI, or equivalent).

You can also choose to snorkel and free dive – but in my opinion, nothing beats the experience of studying this environment up close and taking your time to observe the magic!

Is Musan family-friendly?

Sure, as long as you stick to snorkeling, which requires no certification and your kids are good swimmers! To be honest, you might not want your kids to closely observe the sculptures anyway. Look at my pictures, they are creepy as hell haha!

As far as safety goes, MUSAN is luckily demarcated so no boats are allowed to pass through.

Green Bay, Protaras

Green Bay is hands down one of the most famous diving spots on the island. It is also where you will first learn how to dive with Aquanaut diving school.

This gorgeous beach is located in the heart of Protaras. Open water and beginner divers will begin diving here at a depth of 10meters.

Home to a great feeding station – the area is brimming with marine life and beautiful turtles! (please NOT touch the turtles or any other creature you encourage)

At Green Bay, you will also see underwater statues and columns that will leave you wide-eyed and hungry for more!

Zenobia Shipwreck – Larnaca

Hailed as every diver’s dream wreck, Zenobia is the King of famous shipwrecks in Cyprus. Impressively, it is also rated as one of the top ten wreck dives in the world.

So I guess it is safe to say that while diving in Cyprus, a trip to Zenobia is a must!

The wreck is located in Larnaca. It is a Swedish ferry, which sunk off the coast of Larnaca in 1980. The ferry and cargo are still intact and fascinating to explore. The area is also home to tuna, barracuda, and abundant marine life.

The dive starts at a depth of 17 meters and bottoms at 43 meters, so you will need an advanced open water diving certificate for this.

Lady Thetis, Limassol

Lady Thetis lies 18 meters deep in Limassol. It was actually sunk in 2014 by Cypriot authorities to create new reefs and dive sites to explore.

Home to groupers, breams, and damselfish, there are both easy and more advanced things to explore here. Therefore, It is ideal for an introduction to wreck diving!

Certification level: Open Water +

Devil’s Head, Akamas

Whether you are a Cypriot resident or a tourist, the Akamas Peninsula is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful areas of the island. You simply MUST explore it, both by land – ( in an Akamas Road Trip and Safari), by the beach, and by diving!

The ‘devil’s head’ is a particularly popular spot, that features caves and tunnels at a depth of 11 meters. Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, rock formations, and other gorgeous marine life.

Manidjin Island, Paphos

Starting at 6 meters all the way to a depth of 25 meters, this spectacular cave is so cool!

The cave itself is covered in a variety of purple and pink calciferous algae. Additionally, many divers often spot yellowfin barracuda at the site.

Jubilee Shoals, Avdimou, Limassol

Experienced divers will love the challenge of Jubilee, which takes you on an underwater journey of 20-60m deep!

It is the largest natural reef in Cyprus, and arguably the best non-wreck dive site on the island. Jubilee offers breathtaking scenery and views of tuna, octopus, jackfish, and other gorgeous creatures.

This impressive cliff comes with caves, tunnels, and pinnacles to enjoy! So make sure you charge your Go Pro camera to the fullest!

Certification level: Advanced Open Water +

Thank you for reading through my guide about diving in Cyprus!

I hope to have inspired and educated you enough, to take the plunge and enjoy this incredible activity on this paradisiacal island.

Don’t forget to check my Diving Vlog here, and follow my Instagram for more posts, reels, and content on Cyprus!

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Cyprus Brunch – A Hot List For The Best Breakfast In The Mountains

Tia — Sun, 03 Oct 2021 06:27:34 +0000

Cyprus Brunch..is there anything better? And when this brunch is served traditionally and gloriously as breakfast in the mountains..well THAT is pure heaven.

Without further ado, keep reading for the best Cyprus brunch, in the picturesque villages and mountains of Cyprus.

Cyprus Brunch – Limassol Villages

Mpakaliko Tou Xapsi – Agros Village

Small but mighty! This cute stone-built tavern is perfect all year round, with a warm interior and a veranda with a few tables and village views outside! The menu is small and uncomplicated, with two breakfast options.

The first is Pomilorotiana and includes an egg, tomatoes, onion, halloumi, and toast. The second option, Boukoma, is perfect for two and it includes local fresh eggs, lountza, halloumi in commandaria, dried figs and honey, cheese, anari, bacon, cucumbers, tomatoes, jams, butter, and toast.

The tavern is open from 8 am on the weekends and is also a great option for lunch and dinner too.

After your meal, you should really consider exploring the village of Agros too – it’s beautiful!

For more information and reservations call +357 99 409108.

Arkatena fotinis

The ‘arkateno’ bread in Omodos is incredible and widely popular!

At Arkatena Fotini, you can enjoy a sweet platter of arkatena with marmalade, Nutella, and dried nuts, accompanied by aromatic coffee.

Or choose the savory platter with fresh eggs, cheeses, cold meats and fresh jams! Besides the arkatena, the shop also offers homemade sweets and savory pies too.

Omodos is one of my favorite villages in Cyprus, so make sure you check out other great things to do in Omodos here

Contact number: +357 99 284201

Hovoli Coffee Shop – kyperounta

Located right in the center of Kyperounda village, Hovoli offers Sunday brunch, with local delicacies! Do try and sit at the balcony at the back that offers incredible views!

There is also great lemonade, and homemade sweets – the carrot cake is pretty addictive!

There is so much to do in Kyperounta, from adventure parks to the unbelievable Arsenios church and nature trails.

Check all these activities in Kyperounta here!

Contact number: +357 99 893756

Brunch Nicosia Villages

Aristoteleio Boutique Hotel – Pedoulas Village

This is one of my favorite places to visit, and for good reason too! Aristotelio is a boutique hotel in the heart of Pedoulas – just a 5-minute drive from the village of Kalopanayiotis.

I enjoyed a humongous breakfast there, as well as Cyprus meze – and both experiences were fantastic. The restaurant itself is beautiful and aristocratic, but the food is traditional and cooked to perfection!

Omelets, meats, cheeses, jams, eggs, bacon, halloumi, and fresh bread – meant a very happy Tia with a very full stomach. 10/10!

Cyprus Brunch – Larnaca Villages

Christoudia winery – Kato Drys Village

A beautiful winery located in the even more picturesque village of Kato Drys! At Christoudia Winery, Brunch is a pretty serious affair.

Apart from the usual, cheeses, cold cuts, jams, bread, and eggs, there is a dynamite plate you have to try.

You will simply love the eggs in the sausage meat cooked in the wineries wine, with plenty of Cyprus finest spices and tomatoes!

Combine your brunch with gorgeous views of the vineyards, a wine tour, and a stroll around Kato Drys village!

For more information call +357 99813075

Petros – Basket Weaving museum – Choirokitia Village

A beautiful oasis with plenty of animals, gardens, and an excellent brunch!

In its courtyard, the wood-fired oven brings out steamed bread and traditional delicacies, and in its kitchen, fresh anari and hot halloumi drive the visitors crazy.

His excellent brunch is completed with fresh produce such as eggs and vegetables from his yard and farm.

For Booking and Info call +357 99 518277

Stafilaris Coffee Shop – Kato Lefkara Village

A good and plentiful Cyprus breakfast, in a relaxed setting with shade, and room for kids to roam! It’s a great place to relax, whilst feeling like you are in a family member’s backyard!

Great friendly staff, homemade lemonades, and plenty of sweets make the experience even better.

For more information call +357 96 559287

Cyprus Brunch Paphos – Villages

Kika’s Gardens – Kallepia Village

The wonderful Mrs Kika turned her home in the village into a garden oasis that serves organic breakfast from the fresh produce it produces.

Brunch is served from Thursday to Sunday from 9:30 am until 2 pm. Please be aware that eservations are essential!

The organic menu includes fresh eggs and bread, homegrown vegetables, as well as halloumi, and anari cheese.

Additionally, there are fresh sweet figs, homemade jams, and plenty of other seasonal items.

For more information call +357 99 459400.

Vasilikon Winery – Kathikas Village

Situated in the north-western shores of Cyprus, at the Akamas Laona Region and the village of Kathikas. The winery was established in 1993 and is one of the first local wineries of the island.

At the winery, you can enjoy a traditional Cyprus Breakfast with views of the vineyards, or some cheese and wine instead!

The breakfast comes with sausages, eggs, bacon, halloumi, vegetables, olives, and bread!

For information call +357 26 633999

Thank you for reading this special Cyprus brunch in the villages article! Bon Apetito 🙂

When you visit these recommendations, tag me in your stories! That way, I can share the glorious food!

Love, Tia

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Radisson Blu Larnaca – A Peek Into One Of Cyprus’s Most Exquisite Hotels

Tia — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 19:44:18 +0000

It is with great pride and excitement that I present to you, a detailed look into the incredible Radisson Blu Larnaca, Cyprus.

This hotel surprised and delighted me and with each day I became more and more convinced that it is indeed, one of the most exquisite hotels in Cyprus.

As you keep reading, you will find my review on everything – from the rooms to the pool, gym, food, room service, cleanliness, and more.

So whether you are a local Cypriot, or simply visiting Cyprus, keep reading for all the holiday inspiration you never knew you needed!

How do I get to Radisson Blu Larnaca, from the nearest airport?

The Radisson Blu is located in the heart of Larnaca – which makes it a mere 15-minute drive from LCA airport.

What are some of the property amenities at Radisson Blu Hotel, Larnaca?

I will go into detail for many of these below but here is a quick and easy checklist of the amenities at the hotel for you to tick off your list!

Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Outdoor pool
Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room
Free breakfast
Bicycle rental
Babysitting and Children Activities
Greek, English, Russian, Arabic, German and Romanian Speaking staff.

Some of the room amenities are:

Allergy-free rooms
Blackout curtains
Air conditioning
Desk
Coffee / tea maker
Cable / satellite TV
Extra long beds
Walk-in shower

Can I park a car at Radisson Blu Larnaca?

Yes, you can! Guests at the Radisson have a private and free large parking space – and there is also street parking available around the hotel.

The Suites at the Radisson Blu Larnaca

Let’s start with the obvious. WOW. Like, seriously, WOW.

As you can see in these pictures, the suites at the Radisson Blu Larnaca are nothing short of breathtaking. The shock on my face when I walked in was almost comical – it took a while for it all to sink in!

My suite (room 820) – which is as big as an apartment- ( i NEED an apartment like this urgently) has its own open plan, dining area, and living room.

In that space, you will find a Nespresso and other tea-making facilities, sofas, large smart satellite tv, and a bathroom.

I also had the time of my life enjoying the hotel’s exclusive pillow service! In the box pictured below, there are 6 different samples of pillows – from the softest to the hardest.

I simply chose my preferred pillows, called up reception, and BOOM – the perfect pillows for the perfect night’s sleep got delivered to my door within minutes!

The Bathtub

Moving on into the hallway, which opens up beautifully into a large, spacious area filled with light!

That is where you’ll find this large bathtub, a standing luxurious shower, a second bathroom, and two sinks ( coz no one wants to share a sink haha!).

Furthermore, the bathtub looks out into the city – the huge sliding door opens up to a private patio with outdoor seating sofas, and even tanning beds if you are too lazy to drag your feet to the pool!

And yes, you can bet your ass this Queen Elizabeth right here ( me) took her sweet time in exploring each corner and surprise of the Radisson Blu Suite!

It is probably needless to say – that the bathroom is fully equipped. I mean, save your luggage space and bring nothing!

Everything from bath salts, hand cream, shower puff, shower cap, body cream, and more are included and it felt just as luxurious as the room itself.

CHECK THE PRICES AND BOOK HERE

The Bedroom

The bedroom is separate and literally humongous – with an extra-long and wide bed and its own desk which came in handy when I had to get some work done during my 3 day stay!

The enormous satellite TV was a huge bonus and I was impressed by the fact that the two TVs in the room could play different channels at the same time too.

The Room Service

So basically, when the room is a 10/10 and you have spent 45 minutes soaking in the tub, you miiiight not feel like escaping it for food. Especially when your fave TV series is on the cable!

So room service it was – and ooohh it was worth it.

The room service is practically impeccable – I cannot fault it. A bucket of ice because you fancy extra cold water? Yes ma’am!

Mushroom and truffle risotto, mango cheesecake, and excellent wine? Sure!

Incredible coffee? Lactose-free milk? Stevia? You name it, and the Radisson Blu Larnaca has got it.

After just returning from Dubai where I DID NOT have any of those amenities – in hotels classed similarly to the Radisson – this tugged at my heartstrings a bit more and made me even more grateful.

Other types of rooms at the Radisson Blu Larnaca

The incredible thing about this hotel is that all of the rooms – whether it is the family sea view (bottom left) or the premium city view (bottom right) are so spacious, luxurious, and full of light!

It’s just so annoying when the suite looks like a palace and the other rooms look like dark dungeons ( I’m talking to you Thailand!)!

The Pool – Radisson Blu Larnaca

On my second day, I reluctantly escaped my room for a not-so-needed tanning session – I think I’m brown enough now haha!

Again, I couldn’t help but notice the attention to detail. Extra-large tanning beds, perfect cold water temperature (oh how I loathe a warm pool on a hot summer’s day!), luxurious showers with the perfect water pressure – and don’t laugh but…impeccable pool bathrooms too.

You are probably reading this, and thinking I have gone mad, but do you know how many hotels – both local and abroad – have the tiniest, filthiest outdoor bathrooms filled with wet footprints, sand, and reek of chlorine and pee?

Well unfortunately for me, I do, so I take extra notice when they are spacious, spotlessly clean and smell of daisies haha!

It is here that I must say a huge congratulations to the staff at the pool ( and whoever is training them).

I am terrible at remembering names, but over the course of three days, I had interaction with at least 5 of the staff and I was blown away. I have never seen staff so polite, yet approachable!

Quick service with a smile, great cocktails/mocktails ( some fantastic vegan smoothies too), food, and overall service. 10/10!

CHECK THE PRICES AND BOOK HERE

The Gym

For the health and fitness freaks out there – fear not! The gym is spacious and equipped enough to get a proper workout in!

Bonus points go to the treadmills and bicycles overlooking the pool – the view helped me forget how much I hate cardio!

Currently, due to Covid restrictions, you can reserve a free time slot for a gym visit at the reception – to ensure you train privately and safely

What kind of breakfast is served at Radisson Blu Hotel, Larnaca?

Oh good lord in heaven.

As I am writing this, I am currently one kilo heavier – and I suppose I should be grateful it’s only a kilo, considering how much I managed to eat at the Radisson in 3 days, and in Dubai in a week!

Yes, I ate it all, plus croissants for dessert!

Here is a quick and easy list of the types of breakfast you can find on the extensive buffet – and upon request

Continental
Full English
Vegetarian
Vegan
Halal
Gluten-free
Kosher
American
A la Carte

I expected the breakfast to be fantastic – and it didn’t disappoint.

What surprised me though, was the special note to Cypriot cuisine and tradition that I found throughout! Spoon sweets, halloumi pies, honey pies, koupes ( both veggie and meat varieties) and the list of Cyprus delicacies goes on.

I mean, I do love an English breakfast, sure, but Cyprus cuisine is incredible and deserves to be mentioned and celebrated at every meal, and in every hotel more often!

Radisson Blu Restaurant

This hotel is filled with options and none of them disappoint!

MA – Peruvian Japanese Restaurant

Colorful, imaginative, and delicious – this is the MA in a nutshell!

If you love Asian cuisine with a twist, this is a perfect dinner option whether you are a guest staying at the Radisson Blu Larnaca or simply visiting for the perfect culinary experience.

Ma Peruvian Japanese restaurant is conveniently located next to the port’s roundabout in Larnaka. The restaurant is part of QBlu Plaza, on the ground floor of Radisson Blu Hotel.

MA – which literally means “the space between two worlds” in Japanese – does just that. It elevates and celebrates the fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine into a gorgeous and extensive menu that you will want to take a good look at!

The finest East Asian and Asia-Pacific cuisines marry surprisingly well together, blending Japanese minimalism with the vibrant flavors and colorful food of Peru.

I was particularly impressed with the service – and the extremely knowledgeable staff. I suffer from IBS and my date is vegan – they had so many alternatives to suit our dietary restrictions and even offered to alter a few dishes so we can sample them!

As a person who usually ends up sick 95% of the time I consume food I haven’t prepared myself (due to my IBS), I was extremely grateful for the service and patience!

I enthusiastically urge you to try the beef teriyaki, duck gyoza, Peruvian croquette, and allllll the types of sushi! Fantastic food, honestly!

Operating Hours:
Monday – Closed
Tuesday – Saturday 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Sunday – 12:00 am – 11:00 pm

Reservations: +357 24 505 822

Marbre Fusion Grill Restaurant

Marbre Fusion Grill is a food lover’s paradise. This unique and vibrant restaurant grills food to perfection – whether that is meat, fish, or vegetables.

More than just another steakhouse, the Marbre takes stellar ingredients and creates unique culinary experiences filled with color, taste, and imagination.

Some of the highlights are the Cretan Tomahawk Steak with a homemade barbeque sauce, Picanha from Argentinian Beef, Tuna Steak, and Oxtail Pasticcio.

Operating Hours:
Monday – Sunday 12:00 am – 11:00 pm

Reservations: +357 24 505 821

Dolce Cafe

When artisan coffee, creative cocktails, sweet pastries, relaxing ambiance, and great service collide, magic happens.

Whether you are in the mood for a good coffee, a sweet treat, brunch with friends, a mammoth burger, or a hearty salad – Dolce Cafe is here to save the day!

Another fabulous restaurant addition located on the ground floor of the Radisson, Dolce’s desserts are second to none. I highly recommend the raspberry pannacotta and the mango cheesecake!

Radisson blu Larnaca sky bar

Located on the 16th floor, the Skybar is the perfect spot to unwind, and enjoy. If you manage to get there early, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the harbor along with some fantastic signature cocktails and delicious food platters that are far too generous to be considered as ” a small bite”.

Opening hours: 5:30 pm–1 am | daily

Radisson blu Larnaca wedding

I obviously didn’t get married at the Radisson Blu Larnaca – If anything I am as single as it gets haha ( or married to this blog more like). But many people choose to, and I am not surprised at all!

Incredible surroundings, food, and hospitality, as well as an excellent location for guests from all over Cyprus, and guests arriving from overseas for your special day!

BOOK THE HOTEL HERE

Which popular attractions are close to Radisson Blu Hotel, Larnaca?

If you manage to escape the hotel, there are many things to explore in Larnaca!

Larnaca Salt Lake and the Pink Flamingoes – for bird watching ( during the winter months there are hundreds of pink flamingos)
Hala Sultan Tekke – One of the most important Islamic monuments in the world
Church of Saint Lazarus – for religious tourism and Byzantine architecture
Makenzi Beach – for the numerous beach clubs and the beach
Pierides Archaeological Foundation Museum
Larnaca’s Archaeological Museum
Road trip to some of Larnaca’s most beautiful villages – like Lefkara and Kato Drys
Beach Hopping to the paradisaical Ayia Napa Beaches

Save this post for your next Cyprus Holiday

Thank you for coming with me, on a tour into the magnificently luxurious Radisson Blu! Below, please find a plethora of other articles on Cyprus that may interest you!

Love, Tia

The Very Best Things To Do In Lympia and Skarinou Villages In Cyprus

Tia — Fri, 07 May 2021 21:40:23 +0000

Welcome to Lympia, Skarinou, and Ayios Theodoros villages. Together, we will discover street art, incredible food, adorable donkeys, and breathtaking nature and hiking spots.

When I first took on my travel show Tia Does Agrotourism, I thought I knew Cyprus. But noooo. not really. Although local, how many of you truly know your country off by heart?

My birthplace, the insanely beautiful island of Cyprus, held so many hidden treasures deep within it, and the minute I started touring it, I realized that all these years…well I hadn’t even scratched the surface!

Stick with me, while I peel off yet another layer of Cyprus, and hand it to you on a beautiful Greek plate.

Why you should visit Lympia

Lympia is actually perfectly located between Larnaca and Nicosia. Staying in Lympia, means you are super close to Nicosia, with its historical sights and classy restaurants, and Larnaca too, with the LCA airport, the beach, and its beautiful villages!

30 km from Nicosia
Only 25 km from Larnaca Airport
A short 35km from the gorgeous villages of Lefkara and Kato Dris
Such a colorful village with plenty of character and color
Cheaper accommodation than Nicosia!

What to See and Do in Lympia

Lympia village has recently had its 15 minutes of fame for its beautiful ”love steps” – a set of colorfully painted steps at the entrance of the village.

But hear me out, because I have a question for you! How many of you, have visited the ‘’ Love steps in Lympia, and left, before exploring the village? If you are one of these people, then keep reading!

In the village, they are planting trees and vegetable gardens, adding street art and splashes of color, and revamping old traditional houses!

At the same time, we find fresh halloumi and anari cheese, stone-built guesthouses, and colorful cobbled streets full of flowers in full bloom.

To top it all off, there is excellent Cyprus brunch, olive picking experiences, and many more. So come with me, and let’s take a walk together!

Explore the street Art on the streets of Lympia

Look how gorgeous all this street art is! I totally didnt expect to find such excellent pieces on the streets in Lympia – it reminded me of walking the streets of Instabul!

You will no doubt want to enjoy a walk and take in the work that was put in to these pieces of art!

Happy snapping at ”The Love Stairs” aka Τα Σκαλιά της Αγάπης

Did someone say Cuba? Coz this sure looks like it! The love steps in Lympia is such a Instagrammable and photographed sport – and you will find it at the entrance of Lympia Village.

The previously monotonous gray staircase was turned into a colored, piece of art by a group of young painters in the village.

This way, you are far more likely to walk to the top, and enjoy panoramic views you might have otherwise missed!

Tia’s Tip: If there are too many people there, walk around the other way to its opposite entrance, and that’s usually empty 🙂

Also, avoid visiting during times when the sun is really strong, as the colors won’t pop that way! My pictures below were taken at 5 pm!

”Love Steps” Location

Buy The Best Halloumi Cheese at P. A. Irakleous Ltd.

In Lympia, I tasted the most incredible halloumi and anari cheese. And when I say incredible…I really mean it! People from Nicosia, Larnaca, and all parts of Cyprus drive down to Irakleous to buy these dairy products – it was super busy when I visited.

If you are renting a cottage house or airbnb then a few of these will be excellent for breakfast!

Address: Archiepiskopou Makariou Tritou 14, 2566 Lympia
Lefkosia – Cyprus

Souvenir Shopping at Panos Atelier

I really enjoyed my visit at Panos Atelier! This tiny shop is filled to the brim with handmade traditional artifacts you will surely find something to take home as a souvenir, or to your loved ones!

To contact: 99 634453

Wood carvings?

I adore discovering businesses that elevate the Cypriot culture and religion, and when this business is passed on from generation to generation, that is the icing on the cake!

Costas Kaounaris, has been making Ecclesiastical Wood Carvings for over 20 years -and upon entering his workshop, I am in awe. There are thousands of pieces of art here, many of which I recognise from my religious tourism tours on the thousands of churches on the island.

It is practically inconceivable to imagine how these are made by hand – but one look at Costas and his two sons at work, and I am convinced that wood carving is even harder than I ever imagined!

Lympia Dam

This particular dam was built in 1977 and although hard to find (due to lack of signs), it is home to rich and rare biodiversity in Cyprus. Anything from plants, fishes, insects, and many more live here on this little unexpected oasis!

This particular dam it a fisherman's paradise - here you can fish for carps, albino, red-winged, crayfish, sea bass, perch, and many more. There is a relevant permit secured by the Department of Fisheries.

Click here for the location

Where to stay in Lympia

Olympia

Located in Lympia, Olympia Traditional Houses provides accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning, and access to a garden with a barbecue. Each unit is equipped with a patio, a fully equipped kitchenette with a fridge, a seating area with a sofa, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer.

For added convenience, the property can provide towels and bed linen for an extra charge. The apartment offers a continental or à la carte breakfast on the beautiful large terrace, where on Sundays, a huge Cyprus brunch is served!

I loved the traditional detail in the rooms – that is what agriculture is after all!- from the stone walls to the beds, furnishings, and so on. There is even a small display of traditional tools used in agriculture from the previous century!

Despite the fact you will get the feeling of a different era, all the houses are fully equipped with modern amenities, like Flat-screen TV, fully equipped kitchen, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi in all areas and outdoor furniture.

BOOK A STAY AT OLYMPIA TRADITIONAL HOUSE

Where to Eat In Lympia

Sunday Brunch at Olympia Traditional House

Now THIS is what a I call a Cyprus brunch! I was fortunate enough to be invited for brunch at Olympia and i can safely tell you, you will unlike need another meal on the day!

This is a buffet service, and it is bursting at the seams with all the goodies Cyprus is renowed for!

Fresh organic eggs and vegetables, homemade jams, and bread that’s made in the wood fire oven! We sampled 3 different types of pies: Cheese pie, pumpkin pie, and olive pie! The famous ”mahalepi” (eggless cream with rose water) is on offer too and fresh fruit and lemonade and coffee.

Find the address here

Lunch – Peiragmena Restaurant

Peiragmena – which means ”tweaked” – is a restaurant in Lympia that offers a seasonal, but non-traditionally Cypriot-style menu with a “twist!”.

The dishes here are a modern adaptation of Cypriot and Mediterranean cuisine inspired mainly by seasonal ingredients and high-quality local produce.

As for the menu at Peiragmena Restaurant, It changes each season to ensure maximum freshness and the fullest flavors and aroma to each dish. These adaptations as well as the affordable prices are welcomed by regular diners and gastronomes alike.

Find the location here

Skarinou Village

At the heart of Cyprus, 190 meters above sea level and surrounded by hills, lies the picturesque village of Skarinou. Connecting the main towns of the island, Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaka, Skarinou combines the qualities of country life with the modern amenities and luxuries of life in town.

The houses are old traditional stone buildings and the old-style identity of the village remains intact with its narrow streets leading to squares and natural openings. The villages dominant landmark is the church of The Guiding Virgin Mary (Panayia I Odigidria) which stands proud and tall at the entrance of the village, welcoming both locals and visitors.
In this small village, architectural structure and nature co-exist with tradition, culture and customs.

Top Sights in Skarinou

Golden Donkeys Farm

Love animals? Then you will love this!

A family business, with a simple philosophy: that the history and heritage of each country, are its real treasure and so, their purpose is simple – to share this treasure with each and every visitor, thus showing him, the real side of Cyprus.

My first impression is that the Golden Donkeys Farm was built with a love for our tradition and a keen eye for detail.

The entire farm is flooded with the delicate aromas of rosemary and thyme and beautifully framed by a large olive tree that is over 1500 years old.

Here we find a donkey museum, a farmhouse, but also a wax museum. The wax museum shows classic and traditional images of what life in Cyprus looked like in generations past – so it is a great way to immerse yourself in Cyprus culture!

In this beautiful farm, you can meet the 200 or so adorable donkeys they host, learn all about their wide range of award-winning donkey milk products, but also enjoy food and coffee in their restaurant.

The restaurant is a spacious space, that includes both outdoor and indoor space and seating. The menu is simple, there was a choice of 4 dishes – and we ordered one of each as you can see below in the pictures. The food was very good, basically, it is well- cooked Cyprus food dishes that you will very often find in Cypriot homes.

Golden Donkeys Farm Address

Dipotamos Reservoir

I love the element of water. It soothes me, calms me, centers me. And Cyprus has a LOT of water – it is an island after all!

We have paradisical beaches, that stretch as far as the eye can see. But during this tour of Cyprus, I have had the pleasure to visit plenty of dams too.

Dams are great for fishing, (when allowed), and many come attached with a nature trail so also great for walks in nature, and bird watching too!

And Dipotamos Dam is pretty gorgeous, as you can very well see. Sunsets are beautiful here, with gorgeous panoramic views!

The Dipotamos dam is located east of the village of Lefkara and north of Skarinou. It is approximately 15 minutes by car from the Golden Donkeys Farm. Dipotamos dam was built in 1985 and to this day, it provides a water storage volume of 15,500,000 cubic meters.

The river is home to 8 species of fish, but fishing is not allowed!

Find the location of Dipotamos Reservoir here

Panagia Odigitria

The central church of the village is the church of Panagia Odigitria. Its construction started by the local community in 1950 and was completed in 1953.

There used to be another church which was demolished. The church celebrates on the 8th of September.

Agios Theodoros Village

The small but beautiful village of Agios Theodoros is found in the province of Larnaka, 8.6 km away from Skarinou and 3km from Kofinou village.

It is built at the banks of the river Pentashoinos, 80 meters above sea level.

Akakia Beach

If you want to combine a village visit with the beach, head down to Akakia Beach! This is an organized beach, with its own beach bar, sun loungers, umbrellas and toilets.

Think of lazy moments away from the manic buzz of the central Larnaca beaches, cocktails, food, and soothing lounge music. Bliss!

Find it here

Local Market of Larnaca Producers

Welcome to the Local Market of Larnaca Producers in Agios Theodoros! The Women’s Rural Association of Larnaca has put together an open-air Plastic-free traditional market that brings freshness from the producer, directly to your table!

Here we find fresh Cypriot fruits and vegetables, poultry, fresh honey and all its derivatives, jams and spoon sweets, nuts, herbs, medicinal teas, and much more! Because when women unite … they truly perform miracles!

Have a Picnic at the Orchard of the village

A quiet picnic area, surrounded by orange and jasmin trees, that provides you with plenty of shade! There are picnic tables here, and there are quite a few – about 20 of them!

The only downside is that the trees attract a few bees, so if you are allergic, you might want to give it a miss!

Find it here

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Cyprus Villages – Adorable Farm Visits And Religious Tourism

Tia — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 21:22:43 +0000

Welcome to another article about Cyprus villages that have a lot to offer! In this article we will talk about 2 Cyprus villages in Nicosia District – Paliometoxo and Nikitari.

In Paliometoxo, I visited the most adorable animal farm, and in Nikitari, I enjoyed religious tourism in Panagia Asinou Unesco church along with excellent food and a fair few pleasant surprises!

So keep reading to find the truth about 2 Cyprus villages that are off the radar…but totally worth a visit!

Cyprus Villages – Paliometoxo

In general, Paliometoxo is a modern village, possibly because of its close proximity to the capital of Cyprus, Nicosia! You won’t find the picturesque alleys, the cobbles streets, the colorful wooden doors, or breathtaking nature.

But Paliometoxo is a must visit for two things; The Royal Goat Farm, and Panagia Chrysogalaktousa Church!

Paliometoxo Village

The Royal Goat Farm

I love to discover places that offer pure entertainment and unique experiences for every age! The Royal Goat Farm is a warm and hospitable farm in Paliometocho village, just a few minutes outside Nicosia.

Lambs, goats, donkeys, bunnies, and all kinds of birds live harmoniously here, and you cannot get enough of just seeing and studying them!

At The Royal Goat Farm, they love tradition, and this is evident, from their classic Cypriot hospitality and their love for all creatures on earth!

Roula and Christos are the owners, and you will have a hard time meeting more kind-hearted people – that truly love what they do!

What animals are there at the Royal Goat Farm?

My goodness, there are so many! So first off, we have the most adorable goats and sheep!

Next, we have a sweet little family of Donkeys, the mother, father, and their 3-week old baby son!

There are also turkeys, chickens of various breeds (and their cute baby chicks), and geese – one of which was hatching her eggs when I visited!

You will also encounter rabbits – and let me tell you, that baby rabbits are the cutest thing there is!

Are the animals well taken care of?

The animals are loved; truly loved and taken care of in such a beautiful way! The baby lambs and goats are kept in one enclosure, and the mothers are always kept safe with their calves!

The Donkeys are kept outside in their own covered enclosure, and the male goats and sheep are kept entirely separate. On another part of the farm, there are different areas for the turkeys, another for the chickens, one for geese and lastly, an area for the rabbits!

In conclusion, each species has their own large space, that is filled with food, water and shade. All the animals are released every morning and spent their whole day outside grazing, eating, and generally being…animals!

They only go indoors at nightfall and during designated feeding times! Each morning, the goats and sheep are milked, and then off they go to enjoy a day of fun and freedom on the vast premises of the farm!

Are there any other activities at the farm apart from the animals?

Absolutely! For starters, the farm is in the process of finishing building a beautiful outdoor restaurant right on the farm’s premises! The restaurant will be offering a set of traditional and seasonal Cypriot dishes, and themed nights.

There is also a certified station for the preparation of halloumi cheese, goat cheese, and anari, all of which you can book to take a workshop in!

In the wood-fired oven outside, you can observe the art of traditional bread making – which you can later devour in the beautiful brunch you will be eating.

Of course, I took part in every activity and workshop available – quite clearly I didn’t want to leave!

Making Cheese for flaounes
Traditional bread in the food-fired oven
Cyprus breakfast!
Traditional wood-fired oven

I met, cuddled, and milked the animals, made bread in the wood-fired oven, made cheese for ”flaounes” – ( traditional pastries with cheese and raising made during Easter!), and ate an amazing Cypriot Brunch.

In conclusion, at the Royal Goat Farm, you can:

Visit the farm and meet/play with the animals
Eat Cyprus brunch ( and soon lunch/dinner at the restaurant)
Take a bread-making workshop
Take a halloumi and anari cheese workshop

To book: Call 00357- 99653957

Panagia Chrysogalaktousa – Paliometoxo

After you finish visiting The Royal Goat Farm, I highly suggest a visit to the beautiful Panagia Chrysogalaktousa church, which is located in the heart of Paliometoxo Village.

This 19th-century church is built of limestone porphyry stones in the shape of a single-aisled basilica.

Its architecture is in line with the Byzantine style that most temples have built from the last years of Ottoman rule until the middle of the 20th century.

The bell tower is beaytiful, and it is built with the same stone as the rest of the Temple. It has unique and elaborate carvings all over the body. I also observed intricate shapes and carvings in the windows and entrances of the church.

From 2013 to 2017, the church underwent extensive renovations! The exterior masonry was cleaned and repaired and the roof of the temple was restored with the installation of new semi-cylindrical tiles.

Work was also done inside the church where the masonry was preserved and a new floor of traditional Cypriot plaster was placed.

In the center of the main church, where the foundations of the medieval church were located, the surface was covered with a glass floor and lighting was placed to better highlight the space. You can see the foundations of the ancient church under the glass floor, which i thought was a lovely touch!

All the wood-carved parts of the temple (doors, windows, gynaeconite, pulpit, episcopal throne, image stalls, iconostasis) have been preserved. 

The old chandeliers of the temple were preserved and relocated, and the bell tower was fixed and cleaned. 
Finally, the surrounding area of the church was beautified with the landscaping of the precinct with Cobblestone paving and pebbles.

Cyprus Villages – Nikitari Village

In Nikitari, we find mansions of old traditional architecture, picnic areas, taverns with courtyards and lovely views and of course, nature trails, in the luscious state forest.

Panagia Asinou Church

The Christian Orthodox Easter is approaching, and with joy and excitement Ι visit the impressive stone-built Byzantine church of Panagia Asinou, which is a building of the 12th century.

This church is located in the village of Nikitari in the province of Nicosia and is of course included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Do you need to book in advance to visit Panagia Asinou Church?

Panagia Asinou is, as mentioned above, a Church protected by Unesco. This means, that for its preservation, it does not operate daily and it is only open for visitors on Sundays!

Im not sure I agree with this, as so many people might wish to visit on a weekday or on Saturday, but it is what it is!

Please note, that photography and videography are strictly forbidden in Panagia Asinou. The same rules apply for all Cyprus villages with Unesco Churches.

I was fortunate enough to get special access and permission for the photos you see here and the videos in my travel episode!

What restaurants are near Panagia Asinou Church?

There are two restaurants within a minute from Panagia Asinou Church. Both were open on Sunday I visited, and both are traditional Cyprus Meze restaurants.

One is ”Stavros Tis Asinou” and the other is Forviotissa Restaurant – which was my choice and it was excellent! Let me tell you about it below!

Forviotissa Restaurant

This restaurant is one of those family businesses that understand the culture and culinary excellence of Cyprus.

They skillfully take the art of the Cyprus meze and elevate it so that everything you eat is an incredible culinary journey through the island’s top dishes. Warning; Make sure you arrive hungry!

Cyprus taverns are notorious for serving so much food, that it is simply impossible to eat. At Forviotissa restaurant, the food was plentiful, but in no excess – which makes my eco-friendly side very happy!

In their large outdoor space, overlooking the endless green of the forest, they can entertain a large number of customers whilst keeping up with the social distancing that is essential in Cyprus at the moment.

The menu consists of huge array of starters dips, bread, potatoes, and meats like souvla and souvlaki (skewers of meat barbequed on an open coal fire).

There are also cooked traditional dishes that you don’t often find in taverns, and the spoon sweets and caramel pudding at the end, are to die for. Highly recommend!

To book: 22 999922

Asinou- Agios Theodoros Nature Trail

This gorgeous nature trail starts at the eastern side of Agios Theodoros village and ends at The Virgin Mary of Asinou church.

The trail is deep into the Aderfoi Forest and it will reward you with amazing views through the beautiful green hills of Paliospora village, the forested mountain of Faraklou, and the Pentadaktylos mountain.

Trail Information
Starting Point: Agios Theodoros Soleas Village
End Point: The Virgin Mary of Asinou church
Distance: 5,6km
Timeframe: 1 ½ – 2 hours
Difficulty Level: 2

And while we are on the subject of nature..consider finishing your road trip by taking a 15-minute drive from Nikitari to Xyliatos Reservoir. The reservoir consists of the Xyliatou Dam and the nature trail too, which is a relaxing trail perfect for leisurely hikers.

Xyliatos Dam

Along the trail, you will have a chance to spot endemic bird and plant species to the island, including the Cyprus warbler and frogs, as well as, the Cyprus skullcap.

The trail is approximately 4km long and takes an average of one and a half hours to complete.

Thank you for sticking around and reading about these special Cyprus villages that put the agro- into agrotourism! Have you ever visited a farm? Share your experience in the comments below!

I would like to wish everyone a Happy Easter! May the Resurrection of Christ be a Resurrection of hope for all of us, for a brighter, more humane, and more peaceful world.

Christos Anesti!

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Platres Cyprus – The 14 Best Things To Explore On This Nature’s Paradise

Tia — Wed, 14 Apr 2021 20:33:20 +0000

Welcome to Platres Cyprus, a true nature’s paradise on the mountains of the incredible island I call home…Cyprus! In this article, we will explore the 14 best things to explore in Platres Cyprus and the neighboring village of Pera Pedi.

If you are a nature lover, get ready to fall in love with the raw, unfiltered, incredible side of Cyprus!

This article is part of Episode 2 of the second season of my travel show ” Tia Does Agrotourism”. As with each episode, we dive deep into the part of Cyprus no one tells you about – the stunning mountains and villages!

Watch the video here

I cannot wait to tell you all about the hidden and sometimes forgotten beauties of Platres Cyprus, and my gorgeous island, so keep reading!

What are the top attractions to visit in Platres Cyprus?

Platres is a green resort immersed in dense vegetation at the heart of the Troodos mountains. Here, of course, we have the beautiful nature trails and the waterfalls of Kalidonia and Myllomeris, which are among the highest in Cyprus.

We find botanical gardens, cycling routes and trout fish farming. In combination with the wild nature, we stumble across picturesque churches, traditional architecture, cobbled streets and fountains with cool cold water!

In particular, Caledonia Waterfall is the real star of the village, although nature has graciously gifted Platres Cyprus with a plethora of wonders for you to explore. Let’s list them down below!

Platres waterfall

In Platres Cyprus, there are actually 2 waterfalls – One is Caledonia of course, which is a waterfall that receives thousands of visitors per year – especially keen hikers!

But there is also a lesser-known, that has only recently enjoyed popularity, and this is Millomeris Waterfall.

1. Caledonia Waterfalls – Platres Cyprus

This beautiful waterfall is one of the highest in Cyprus and is surrounded by lush forest! It is most popular in summer, as it offers a cooler retreat from the Cyprus scorching sun.

But it is actually as its most gorgeous form during the Spring months of March and April. The waterfall is raging during those months, as it is fed by January’s and February’s rainfall, there is no dust or humidity, and spring makes every color more vibrant than ever before.

This 12meter majestic waterfall is one of the highest and most well-known in Cyprus! Put on your hiking shoes and enjoy the various trails that lead up to the waterfall.

Falling in love with nature will be inevitable, and once you get to the top, you will be rewarded with unparalleled beauty!

Caledonia Waterfall hiking trail

To get to the waterfall, you have to hike the 3km trail through the lush forest. The trail can be divided into 2 parts, the higher one that leads to the waterfalls, and the lower one, that leads from the waterfalls to Platres village.

You need a pretty good fitness level for this hike, and you certainly need a good pair of trainers or some hiking shoes. The hike to Caledonia waterfall is 120 minutes long.

Along the trail you will observe many species of local flora. Take a stop at some point, relax and enjoy the natural sound of the wind on the tree leaves and the sweet bird singing.

Once you get to the top, you will be rewarded be a raging waterfall that leaves you breathless!

Caledonia Nature Trail

I remember doing this hike as a child! We used to have a summer house in Platres Cyprus, and we often hiked the trail, and had a picnic off the side of the waterfall. Bliss!

Fun fact: The name Caledonia Falls actually originates from the swallow birds singing during spring and summer evenings.

Caledonia

Shortcut to Caledonia Waterfall

Don’t feel like hiking for this long? Don’t worry, because you can get there in 40 minutes via a shortcut. This trail is highly popular with Cypriots ( This nation truly hates to walk – probably a result of Cyprus not having a public transport system).

To access it, simply park at Psilo Dentro Trout Farm and Restaurant, and the entrance is right there, clearly marked.

Also, please don’t believe the lies..! Many sites say that the trail is 20 minutes long – and I’m sorry but unless you are planning to RUN the entire hike, and jump across the river like a goat… this trail is NOT 20 minutes haha!

It is 45 minutes with various stops here and there to take in the breathtaking scenery along the way! It still cuts your hike time by half though, so it isn’t a bad option if you have children or are in a rush!

2. Millomeris Waterfalls – Platres Cyprus

A waterfall deep in the mountains of Platres that cascades from a height of 15 meters! There was no access to this nature’s wonders until recently, but you can now reach it easily, by either hiking for 1km or by using the other entrance which only requires a 5-minute walk!

By car, take the road to Platres through Moniatis and just before you reach the village’s entrance takes a left turn – the sign will say ”Millomeris” and ”Milia Bridge”. Park your car and walk for five minutes on the trail that leads to the falls.

Alternatively, you can use the other route and hike the 1.5 Km trail instead! The starting point of this trail is at the entrance of Platres, just before the Panagias Faneromenis church. The route is relatively smooth, so I would say it has medium difficulty.

What are the best outdoor activities in Platres Cyprus?

3. Spend a day of adventure at Sparti Rope Park

I had such an awesome time here!! Sparti Rope Park is an adventure park for kids and adults that will test your limits!

Sparti is all about getting out, having fun, and being adventurous. It is the number 1 rope adventure park in Cyprus with more than 140 games and 11 Zip Lines set in the beautiful forest of Platres and Troodos!

What I love about the park is that is an all-inclusive park. Children as young as 2 years old, and adults of all ages are welcome here, and there are a plethora of activities for everyone here!

I love the creativity behind each game, especially the ziplining for the younger children – they really teach you how to build up to it!

I am sure you will be wondering what to wear to freely move and be comfortable. Personally, I would advise sports clothes and sneakers- and definitely wear tighter trousers as the equipment will sit more comfortably that way.

Platres is also notorious for being cold and often rainy, so always take extra clothes for the rain and a long sleeve top if it gets chilly.

More than 200 people visit the park each weekend, so booking ahead is advised! For more information on the park visit their website

Opening Times. The times and days vary with each month. Please check out the times per month here!

4. Visit the Krios River

Krios River brings life to the village of Platres Cyprus! The river can be accessed from various places as it comes from Mount Olympus and connects the two great waterfalls and the medieval bridge of Milia.

Through its root, a green valley with unique flora, fauna, and waterfalls is formed. The water flow is continuous, although it is at its most beautiful during spring!

”Krios” in Greek, means cold – and the river is just that! Super cold and refreshing, you will want to taste the water, and might even be brave enough to take your shoes off and walk in it!

5. Get the best panoramic views of Platres Cyprus at Ayia Irene Rock

Want to explore Platres Cyprus off the beaten path? Then a visit to Ayia Irene Rock is a must!

Located in the northeast of the village on the road leading from Mesa Potamos to Psilodentro Area is this secluded forest area that is not known to many, but definitely deserves a visit!

A mere 5 minute walk into the forest and you will find yourself facing this gigantic rock. From there, you can see the best panoramic views you can hope for and enjoy the outstanding natural beauty.

A destination that not many people know about, but one that is a must visit!

The panoramic view from the top of the rock will leave you speechless, revealing the majestic nature of the Cyprus mountains and all of Platres below.

7. Take pictures of the medieval Milia Bridge

MIlia Bridge is so beautiful! It is one of the old surviving landmarks that still stand intact, in a lush forest setting that looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale!

It’s situated just below the village inside the forest and once you park, it is only a 5-minute walk to get there. Milia Bridge used to provide a crossing point over Krios Potamos.

Other amazing things to do in Platres Cyprus

8. Take a Chocolate making workshop in Platres Cyprus

Rated as one of the top ten ‘must-visit places in the Cyprus Mountains by the Scandinavian Tourist Organisation (SNB) I found this activity to be both fun, relaxing, and educational!

I personally advise you to take part in a chocolate-making workshop! In the workshop, you will learn about the history of chocolate, sample different chocolates from around the world, and make your own chocolate bars to take home too!

These unique Cyprus Chocolates are enjoyed by many Heads of State including the Queen of England and her family.

To Book: +357 99 766446

9. Explore the village of Platres Cyprus

Take a stroll through the village, and enjoy the picturesque cobbled streets, and quaint little shops with the irresistible forest backround! 
There are several fountains with cold, cool water - that Platres is notorious for.

During your walk, you will stumble across some beautiful churches, see locals taking a stroll, hikers preparing for an adventure, and families enjoying a leisurely lunch.

There is life and beauty to be found in Platres Cyprus, and you can discover a lot of it, on foot!

9. Platres Cyprus restaurants for indulgent lunch

Skylight Restaurant

Ok…yum! This restaurant is FANTASTIC, and I have to admit I didn’t expect to find such a fine dining experience in the heart of a traditional village like Platres Cyprus!

But I stand corrected, and Skylight is now firmly on my favorite restaurants’ list!

For starters, the restaurant itself is beautiful, from the table setting to the stunning well-kept gardens outside.

Pork in Coumantaria and Honey

The food at the Skylight Restaurant…well as you can see from the pictures, is impressive, to say the least! The plates are all so incredibly well cooked and presented.

I had the steak Diane, which was cooked to a perfect medium-rare, and the pork in coumantaria (Cypriot port wine) and honey was delicious too.

As for starters, I personally tried the mussels in tomato sauce, the Ceasar salad, and the mushrooms stuffed with cream cheese that were simply outstanding!

The menu also offers a Cyprus meze option too, and various other fish options!

If you can fit any more food in, do take advantage of the sweets and fruits buffet, that is filled to the brim with delicious desserts and fresh seasonal fruits!

To Book: +357 25 422244

Opening Times: 7 days a week – 11 am- 10 pm

Fresh Trout at Psilo Dentro Restaurant

Remember when I told you that you can take a shortcut hike to Caledonia? Well, right at the entrance of the hiking trail, you will find the Psilo Dentro Trout Farm and Restaurant. It is one of the most famous and beautiful areas of Platres.

Here, amongst the trees and beautiful forests, you will find a beautiful restaurant with a huge outdoor area.

The restaurant is famous for its fresh trout, and It is no wonder, as there is over 16.000 fresh trout happily swimming right below the restaurant!

The menu is rather large, with dishes catering to all tastes and ages, but I obviously went for the trout, and it was delicious!

To book: +357 25 813131

Address: 13 aidonion, Pano Platres, Cyprus

Opening Times: 09:00 – 17:00

Platres weather

If you are looking to escape from the hot summer heat yet you are not interested in spending a day by the beach, visiting Platres is ideal! No matter the heat in Cyprus, Platres will always be cooler in the day and definitely chilly in the evenings!

Winter: The typical high temperature for the winter months: December, 9°C, January 10°C, and 14°C in February.

Spring: During the spring months of March, April and May, the standard high temperatures are 14°C, with May reaching 20°C.

Summer: During the summer months of June, July, and August, when the rest of Cyprus experiences 35-45 °C, Platres Cyprus only reaches 28°C max!

Autumn: The autumn months of September, October, and November start at 23 °C, and drop to 13°C as the months progress.

10. Spend the night in a Platres hotel

Forest Park Hotel – a beautiful 4* hotel, that is the best pick in Platres Cyprus!

Petit Palais Platres Hotel – a great option if you want convenience, and prefer to stay right in the center of the village! It is rather impressive for a 2* hotel too!

Serenity Mountain Villa – a 4 double bedroom villa, that is a fantastic option for larger groups of friends or families!

11. Explore the nearby Pera Pedi Village

If you are visiting for more than a day, do try to combine Platres with the neighboring village of Pera Pedi, which was built during the Byzantine years.

12. Explore the village

Impressive religious monuments, rich flora, and Cypriot fauna, a modern winery, and of course, traditional architecture that is reflected in the beautiful houses that stand out on the roadside.

The small but beautiful dam of Pera Pedi is also one I would highly recommend you to visit!

13. Wine and Liqueur Tasting at Constantinou Winery

If you are a fan of wine and liqueurs, you will want to visit Constantinou winery!

Since 1992, the winery has been producing quality coffee and orange liqueurs, and in 2000 their first wine joined the family.

This modern winery was built in 2009 and since then, produces 200,000 bottles of wine per year. 
From their 8 different wine varieties, I choose my personal favorite; a dry white wine called ‘’Ayioklima’’ 

Opening Hours: 9am - 4 pm 6 days per week. The winery is closed on Sundays!
To book: +357 99 681341

14. Enjoy a sunset like no other, at Pera Pedi Dam Cyprus

So many of you asked me to tell you where this small dam is! It is located in Pera Pedi Village, the neighboring village of Platres Cyprus, and it is built over the Krios River.

It sits beautifully at an altitude of 800 meters, surrounded by the evergreen pine forest between Pera Pedi and Platres. At just 12,000 square meters, with a capacity of 55,000 cubic tons of water, it is one of the smallest dams in Cyprus, but to me, it Is one of the most beautiful because of its unique setting!

It is home to a beautiful biotope, that various fish and ducks call home, so it is ideal for bird watching and fishing! The dam is also part of cycling routes that reach up to Mesa Potamo

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17 Amazing things to do in Pelendri, and Agros Cyprus

Tia — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 09:36:52 +0000

In this article come with me, to explore 17 amazing things to do in the villages of Pelendri and Agros Cyprus! From nature trails, wine tasting sessions, Unesco churches, rose factories, brunch spots, and picnic sites, there is something for everyone regardless of age and budget!

So dive right into the 17 awesome things to do in Pelendri and Agros Cyprus, and let’s not leave any corner of Cyprus uncovered!

My travel show ”Tia Does Agrotourism” – an online travel show that focuses on the hidden beauties of mountainous Cyprus is back for Season 2! Today marks the 1st episode of the new season and I cannot wait to show you more of Cyprus’s culture, nature, and unforgettable activities! If you want a recap of Season 1, be sure to check it out here

Pelendri Village

In mountainous Limassol and just 15 minutes from Agros, we arrive in Pelendri, a village with natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage that will win you over from the very first visit!

Known for its annual Zivania Festival, the magnificent taverns, a special winery, and of course the church of the Holy Cross, a 12th century building, and one that is included in the list of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Wine, fruit, and vegetables are also in abundance in Pelendri

Pelendri has a lot to offer, so let's go for a walk and explore it together!

The best things to do in Pelendri

1. Explore Pelendri Village of foot

Pelendri is known for its traditional architecture and its maintenance of culture. In the town center, you will find great examples of traditional local architecture that will take you on a journey back to different, and simpler times.

The homes are crafted with local stones and the window blinds and doors are all made from local woods. Not all of the houses are picture-perfect or maintained as they should be, so I would like to re-visit and see if changes are made in the future!

2.Wine tasting at Pelendri’s Jewel – Tsiakkas Winery

Τsiakkas winery gives you another excellent reason for an excursion to the beautiful Pelendri village. Overlooking the beautiful Troodos mountain range.  among pines and vineyards we enjoy a special experience!

Here, you can taste 9 different varieties of wine, as well as other experimental wines, and of course, the zivania for which the village is famous for! 

The winery is a family business - since 1988 - and their love for their legacy is evident throughout. When i visited, there were huge works underway that will ultimately elevate Tsiakkas to the top of his game, and I am excited to see the outcome! 

20 hectares of vineyards - both their own and others that they rent out - are cultivated with love and care and produce wines such as commandaria, mavro, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay barrique and many more.

Opening Hours: Open from 10 am to 4 pm except for Sundays. (this is subject to change, as the winery might soon be opening on Sundays). Closed from 31st December until 6th January

For wine tasting, please contact the winery first, and make an appointment!

3. Light a candle at Timios Stavros Unesco Church

The beautiful Holy Cross Church is decorated with exquisite wall paintings and frescoes of the Palaiologan period and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Originally built around the middle of the 12th century, it underwent various renovations and additions to presently appear as a three aisle church with a beautiful dome

If you are interested in religious tourism in Pelendri, make sure you check out this in-depth article on the church of Timiou Stavrou.

4. Religious tourism in Pelendri- Panayia Katholiki

If you like to explore old churches and learn about their history or if you are into art, then you should head to the Panayia Katholiki church in the village.

It is only a 5-minute walk from the church of Timiou Stavrou, and it is no longer used as a house of worship.

The church was built in the 17^th century and there is an ecclesiastical museum attached to it. The church showcases rare heirlooms from the 12th to the 19th centuries. The walls of the temple are built with natural, local stone, and its most interesting element is the stone decor, particularly the fishbone pattern above the window of the sanctuary.

The size and historical value of the temple led to the Holy Metropolis of Limassol, in collaboration with the Anastasios G. Leventis Foundation, the Department of Antiquities, and the local authorities, to turn its interior into a painting treasury. The collection of icons it houses include notable samples of Byzantine art in Cyprus, and almost all the icons featured on the iconostasis, which depict the Virgin Mary with Christ, Saint John the Theologian, and Saint Mamas, are influenced by Italian art of the 16th century.

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 10:00-13:00 and 15:00 – 17:30. Saturdays 9:00 – 13:00

Contact Number: 99909393 and 99662286

5. Have a picnic at Kolokasi Park Picnic area in Pelendri

Are you a picnic or barbeque lover? If the answer is yes, then a visit to Kolokasi Park is a must!

Visitors looking to explore the flora and fauna of the Troodos Mountains, or just take in the beauty of nature, will want to head to the Pelendri visitor’s area. There, you can explore all the various trails that lead from the area and take in the surroundings. At Kolokasi park, you can have a picnic or barbeque in a beautiful setting!

Location of Kolokasi Picnic Park

6. Taste traditional baked goods at Pelendritiko bakery

The village is known for the bakery ‘Pellentritiko’ that produces fresh bread daily and other delights. 3.000 loaves of bread are baked here per week, and the star of this bakery is the famous Pelendritiko bread! The bakery has been producing goods since 1960 in their bakery in Pelendri, and deliver to many locations in Limassol too. Buy a loaf of Pelendritiko bread to take home, for breakfasts that smell and taste of Cyprus!

7. Eat the best Cyprus meze in a Pelendri Tavern

Symposio is not just any tavern! You simply must try the 18 hr slow-cooked Kleftiko with koumantaria that is cooked in the traditional wood-fired oven, along with the ‘’Antikristo’’, smoked ribs, and organic seasonal produce!

In the summer months, the family’s small farm equips the tavern with organic, delicious produce – it doesn’t get any more agriculturally friendly than that! Imagine everything you are served, grows on a farm right in front of your eyes – this certainly sparked my interest!

Most people enjoy the meze here – which is a set menu of 20+ taste dishes (like tapas, but better – sorry Spain!), but there is also an opportunity to order a la carte – perfect for vegetarians or vegans, etc.

Seasonal Goodness at Symposio Tavern

The menu is seasonal – so it plays with the village’s strengths and what grows locally in the mountains of Pelendri according to the time of year. If you are lucky, you might even get to try ”Morchelles” – a rare mushroom that grows in the area!

Symposio tavern gets super busy – so early reservations are essential!

Call +357 99 404348 directly or contact them via the page I linked above.

Agros Cyprus

Ιn the area of Pitsilia, at an altitude of 1100 meters and adorned in May with thousands of roses, we meet one of the undisputed protagonists of the area!

Agros is only a 15- minute drive from Pelendri so the two villages can be enjoyed even on the same day or during a weekend escape out of the city!

In this beautiful setting, houses appear to graciously balance on the slopes of the Troodos mountains!

Tradition and progressive innovation blend harmoniously in Agros, and that is why I am not surprised to find everything here – from modern sports facilities, rich entertainment and cultural life.

The village locals are characterized as hard-working and passionate about their village and surroundings. The village’s modern highways make it a connection point between the cities of Nicosia and Limassol and the mountain region of Troodos.

So let’s go together to see what Agros has to offer- the restaurants, and nature trails, the famous local products, and of course, everything that has to do… with roses!

The best things to do in Agros Cyprus

8. Explore the village

Take your time to really explore the village, the little winding streets, the traditional houses, and the almond trees that are in full bloom during March and April.

In May, the village truly comes alive, as it is dressed in pink by the thousand of roses that are ready for picking by that time!

9. Continue with a Cyprus Brunch at Mpakaliko tou Hapsi

Traditional Cypriot Brunch made with love and 100% local products like fresh eggs, locally made halloumi, and smoked meats from the village!

At Mpakaliko tou Hapsi – things are kept simple – and the result is gorgeous. Just three or four tables outside, and a cute and dainty interior that can also sit another 4-5 tables.

The menu is equally no frills! The famous ”mpoukoma” which practically translates to ”small bite to eat” is anything but small!

As you can see in the picture above, it Is a variety of fresh smoked meats (one of the things Agros is famous for), cheeses, fresh eggs from the barn, fresh jams, locally sourced vegetables, and bread, and delicious fried halloumi with fig that is to die for.

Pomilorotigania
Rose lemonade
Mpoukoma
”Agrotiko” sandwich with smoked sausage bacon and lountza

Other delicious things to eat at Mpakaliko tou Hapsi

Equally delicious on the menu is the ”pomilorotigania” which is essentially fried fresh tomatoes with eggs, onions, and goat’s halloumi cheese served with large chunks of freshly toasted bread.

The food menu is completed with three types of sandwiches, with three different types of bread. We got the ”agrotiko” – with smoked sausage, bacon, lountza, and halloumi cheese.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t try it because my IBS restricts me from eating most types of bread, and sesame seeds make me really ill! My filming crew devoured it though, so I think it deserves a mention!

Mpakaliko tou Hapsi has everything I LOVE about brunch in the villages of Cyprus. Classic, no-frills Cypriot breakfast, elevated in a rustic way – using organic, fresh, local produce. Bravo!

10. Agros restaurants – a few other options

If you are after other Agros restaurants, you can check out some of the options below!

Linari Tavern – +357- 25522215
Pezema Tavern – +357 99551381
Seven Hills Tavern – +357 25521152

11. Visit the Tsolakis Rose Factory

You cannot visit Agros or neighboring Pelendri and skip a visit to the Tsolakis Rose Factory! In May the factory collects 8 tonnes of roses!

At the Rose factory, you can find a huge variety of products that are all rose-related! For example, rose-infused chocolates, heavenly smelling candles, rose liqueur and nectar, organic rosewater, jams, wine, vinegar, and a complete organic skincare line!

The Tsolakis family, chose the rich-soil region of Agros, to plant its famous roses. Remaining faithful to tradition and to the preservation of nature, they cultivate the ”Rosa Damascena” rose in Agros Cyprus, for 70 years.

As a result, they are experts at creating the purest rose products for wellness and daily care; using their two well-established products: organic rosewater and the rare rose essential oil.

To Visit Tsolakis Rose Factory: Contact Here

12. Agros cyprus rose festival

It is May in Agros and Mother Nature is orchestrating her symphony. It is finally time for the annual Agros Cyprus rose festival and everyone is eager to get started! The buds of the Rose of Damascus have not yet opened completely, and they are finally ready for harvesting!

The rose festival kicks off at dawn because the thousands of delicate petals must be picked before the sun heats them up, causing them to lose their strong fragrance!

For one kilo of rose petals, 400 – 500 roses have to be picked, and Harvesting lasts between 20 and 25 days. At the Tsolakis plantation, roughly between 30,000 and 50,000 roses are hand-picked per day. The roses have to be placed in the cauldron for distillation as soon as possible.

Harvesting has the sweetness of a festival, where friends are present, and where acquaintances and strangers are welcome. If you are at Agros in May, you can take an active part in the Agros Cyprus rose festival, by harvesting roses – where you will also find me! I can’t wait for this experience! Simply contact Tsolakis Rose factory to receive details and they will tell you where and when to meet!

At the annual Rose Festival, there are a whole host of activities to enjoy, whether you want to indulge in an earthy hands-on experience, wish to try some local produce, or just be an observer to the festivities!

What can someone do in the Agros Cyprus Rose Festival?

The festival usually starts with an early morning rose collection session, followed by a kickoff ceremony and cultural event dedicated to roses.

There are plenty of other festivities to entertain the crowds, like traditional dancing, folk music, food competitions, and more.

The festival usually takes place in May – the last one was (May 11th -12th and 18th -19th). Unfortunately, the rose festival in 2020 was canceled due to Covid, but here is hoping 2021 will be a better year! Stay up to date with the festival here for new dates and news.

Where to stay in Agros Cyprus

The Rodon Mount Hotel and Resort is a true wonder hidden beautifully in mountainous Cyprus offering panoramic and unhindered views! Operating for more than 30 years in the heart of Cyprus, it has a reputation of a true paradise destination.

This is no ordinary hotel; it is a luxury resort and one of the absolute gems of the village! The facilities are enormous and include an outdoor Swimming pool, Gym, Massage services, Tennis Court, Cycling facilities, football Court, basket Court, volley Court, and hiking services!

The rooms are beautiful with a choice between a standard, superior, family and disabled friendly too! And of course, the suites are breathtaking too if you feel like splurging! You will enjoy every minute in one of the 156 recently renovated rooms, decorated with style and comfortable furnishing!

BOOK RODON HOTEL NOW

13. Take a moments of peace at Panayia Eleousa Church

Panayia Eleousa is located in the center of the village so you will definitely come across it when you are walking around! It is an impressive and large church, that can fit as many as 1500 worshipers.

Built with local stone on the surface of its outer walls, the temple was constructed in 1909 on the ruins of the Agros monastery. The altar is the same as the one in the original temple of the monastery, and the iconostasis is wooden and engraved.

The icon of Panayia Eleousa was painted, according to religious sources, by Apostle Luke. The chapel next to the church was built in 1990, and the icon is kept safe inside it. There are also other items saved there, such as a part of the monastery’s original altar, the icon of Christ, holy books, and more.

On the 21st of November, the church of Panayia Eleousa is celebrated, and the church receives thousands of believers through its doors.

14. Relax with a coffee and some cured meats at Kafkalias

Since 1978, this family-run business produces unique smoked meats with respect to tradition along with the passion and experience conveyed through generations.

Along with a plethora of delicious meats, you can also find ‘’Tsamarella’’, which is distinguished by Slowfood as Presidium – a title given to products that are unique, invaluable, and tend to disappear.

All of the smoked meats are free from conservatives and have won many awards such as ”Gastronomos” in 2017 for the delicious Lountza and ”Best Cyprus Product” in 2011 for the Tsamarella. You can buy to eat on the spot or vacuum seal to take home – and enjoy with a glass of Cyprus red wine, ouzo, or other drink! Personally, I devoured my weight in the snacks- i am practically obsessed with the Hiromeri!

To visit the shop, Click here

15. Explore nature at Kato Milos nature trail

The starting point of this nature trail that is 6km long is near the impressive Rodon Hotel in Agros. To hike the entire trail you will need approximately 2 hours, so make sure you take water and wear a hat during the summer months!

You can observe beautiful nature including cherry and pear trees, as well as vineyards and rose plantations.

16. Try the best sweets and marmalades in the village

At Niki’s you will find the most extensive variety of freshly made jams and traditional spoon sweets – and each one is more delicious than the other!

Mrs. Niki, a vibrant, energetic woman, and her shop are situated just a few meters from the rose factory. Her business is certified with ISO 22000 and has been going strong for the past 30 years!

In 2004, the company made its first export order to Australia. Today the company exports its products to more than 6 countries including England, Australia, the USA, France, Japan, and Egypt.

It produces soutziouko, spoon sweets, and marmalade, as well as sweets and jam with no sugar – suitable for diabetics, and a plethora of other delicious Cypriot items!

What are spoon sweets and Soutziouko?

Spoon Sweets: Spoon sweets are preserved fruit and vegetables over a long period of time in syrup, and they are a traditional Greek and Cypriot sweet loved by many generations! Served with coffee, or as dessert, there is a huge variety to choose from! Niki’s sweets produce 20 types of spoon sweets, such as orange, apricot, watermelon, rose, and fig, and some peculiar tastes like aubergine, pumpkin, walnut, and my personal favorite; bergamot!

Soutziouko: One of Cyprus’s most significant traditional sweets! Soutzioukos is made with grape juice, whole wheat flour, and rosewater. Once the mixture is cooked, a string of walnuts or almonds is dipped into it. Each layer dries and the dipping procedure lasts for five to six days. Seriously unique and delicious!

To visit Niki’s Sweets: Contact her here

17. Watch the sunset at the nearby Agridia Dam

The beauty of the natural scenery of Agridia is enhanced by the water dam which was built in 1983. The dam is only 3km from Agros and 9km from Pelendri and it is located between hills with sparse wild vegetation.

Ampelikos Traditional Agrohotel

Ambelikos is a superb example of preserved Cyprus heritage. This beautiful agro-hotel is located in Potamitissa, a village that is km from Pelendri and km from Agros. These stone-built houses are completely renovated with beautiful and modern facilities while preserving their original character and charm.

The fascinating part is that Ampelikos is a unique eco-friendly hotel, ideal for those who seek peace in nature, hiking in fragrant fields, observing flora and fauna or exploring the picturesque mountain area of Pitsilia, including the legendary Commandaria area and Troodos Geopark.

Ambelikos features a Reception room and a lounge with a fireplace for cozy nights in!

There are a total of 15 rooms in a traditional décor with modern amenities, all of them with balcony or terrace overlooking the mountains, the village, and the valley. Not all rooms are the same – some hold more traditional aesthetics such as stone-built walls, and others boast a jacuzzi for the ultimate relaxation!

BOOK AMPELIKOS AGROHOTEL: 00357- 25522211

Thank you for reading about the 17 best things to do in Pelendri and Agros Cyprus! Let me know in the comments below if I left anything awesome behind and I will gladly add it to this mix 🙂

To find out everything you need to know about visiting Cyprus check out the related articles below! There you will find every detail you need about when to visit, where to go, how long to stay for what to eat, and fabulous hotels to stay in!

Love, Tia

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Adults Only Hotels in Cyprus – The Amazing Oinou Strata Hotel

Tia — Sun, 28 Feb 2021 19:54:20 +0000

Searching for Adults Only Hotels In Cyprus? That’s music to my ears! If you are childless like me, or simply want a little getaway to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate, then keep reading!

Because Oinou Strata is definitely my favorite luxury agrotourism resort in Cyprus.

In this unbiased review of Oinou Strata, I will show you around this incredible hotel that screams understated luxury, sophistication, and relaxation. So if you love mountains, villages, and adults-only hotels this is THE article for you!

If on the other hand, you are looking for adults only hotels in Cyprus by the beach then fear not coz I got you covered here too! For Ayia Napa, check out Hotel Napa Suites and for Protaras, the beautiful King Jason Hotel

Adults Only Hotels In Cyprus – Oinou Strata – Location

Oinou Strata offers the option of a luxurious and relaxing stay in Vouni, one of the biggest wine-villages of the mountainous Limassol and maybe one of the best agrotourism destinations in Cyprus!

There are plenty of things to do and see in the beautiful village of Vouni, so make sure you check them out!

What is there to do at Oinou Strata – Adults Only?

At Oinou Strata – the jewel of the village – the co-existence of the old and the modern are the main elements that will catch your eye. Relaxation will be guaranteed, especially because this is an Adults Only Hotel!

You can take your time and relax at your leisure – by soaking in the jacuzzi, enjoying a coffee In your private veranda, reading a book in your living room or watching TV.

Distance from Paphos Airport: 54.3 Km (45 minutes by car)

Distance from Larnaca Airport (LCA) – 105 Km, 1hr and 20 minutes by car

The beautiful thing about being in Cyprus is that everything is close by! There are so many villages, cities, and beaches to visit around Vouni – all you need is a car for endless day trips and explore Cyprus in all its glory!

And seeing as this is an expert’s Cyprus Travel Blog – all you need to do is click on the link above, and start reading all my other Cyprus content.

How far is Oinou Strata – Adults Only from the centre of Vouni?

The village is small, and Oinou Strata is located right in the center of it! You are only 1-2 minutes walks from the villages square, 2 taverns, a cafe, and a public parking area.

Oinou Strata – Get to know the Hotel

At the adults-only Oinou Strata, luxury and comfort are combined with absolute harmony. It is no wonder that this is the winner of the Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2020.

In this luxurious hotel of only 3 suites, everything is perfect – from china on the table, to the beds, Jacuzzi, and wine bar! I practically cried when I had to leave!

There is a beautiful entrance to Oinou strata– which perfectly ties in with the village architecture and style! A cute little patio outside, and a gorgeous wine bar and cellar that is open daily until 7 pm.

Can I park a car at Oinou Strata – Adults Only?

Parking in the village of Vouni is not the easiest of tasks. The village you see, – as quaint as it is – has narrow streets!

Luckily, there is spacious public parking just minutes from the hotel! Make sure you check out the map attacked, so you do not miss it.

What type of room can I book at Oinou Strata – Adults Only?

There are three suites to choose from: The Shiraz Suite, The Champagne Suite, and the Merlot Suite. Yeap, this adults only hotel only offers 3 suites – so be sure to book FAST!

Adults Only Hotels Cyprus – The Suites of Oinou Strata

The rooms are impossibly perfect – like, I need to speak to this interior designer! Huge in size, luxe, classy and fabulous! I stayed in the Shiraz Suite which is situated at the bottom of the complex, right next to the wine cellar.

The beds in all three suites are amazing and so comfortable. The thick mattress, plush pillows, and soft linen provide such an excellent night’s sleep – and this is so important when you wanna spoil yourself! And I’m guessing this is one of the reasons you are looking into adults-only hotels in Cyprus – right?

In the room – which is as big as a 2 bedroom flat – there is also a dining area, with a proper dining table and 4-6 chairs, that is as grand and luxurious as an old Victorian mansion. The Jacuzzi with body treatment scrubs is probably my favorite feature of course – as it is big enough for two, even though I thoroughly enjoyed a glass of wine and a long soak by myself haha!

There is also a living room with a proper fireplace and Led Tv, a private veranda, and a huge bathroom with a jacuzzi and a separate shower.

Book Oinou Strata Now

In Detail, the Shiraz Suite Offers:

65 square meters luxurious exterior and interior Wi-Fi High-speed Internet
Jacuzzi baths with body treatments scrubs Bathrobes
Hair Dryer Slippers
Room Kitchen High quality, upscale dining on-site
Outdoor lounge & dining area Wooden Fireplace
Refrigerator 42″ LED TV
Safe-deposit box Air condition and heating
Reception Service During Working Hours Room Service
Spacious Wine Bar Exclusive wine list and wine cellar
Welcome drink for each guest Fruits for each suite upon arrival
Bottle of wine for special occasions upon arrival Breakfast in the room

I suggest you book an extra night to enjoy both Vouni village AND the hotel – because trust me – you are not going to want to leave that room!

Other suites at Oinou Strata

As mentioned above, there are two more suites available for rent – the Merlot Suite and the Champagne Suite.

The Merlot Suite also includes a jacuzzi and all the features of the Shiraz suite – just a different decor. Furthermore, the Champagne suite does not have a jacuzzi but holds all the same features.

What are the check-in and check-out times at Oinou Strata – Adults Only?

The check-in times in this hotel are not the best in my opinion, but not unheard of in other adults-only hotels in Cyprus! I personally feel I deserve a full 24 hrs in my room (12 pm to 12 pm the next day). Alas, the check-in at Oinou Strata is from 2:30 PM, and check-out is at 11:30 AM.

What kind of breakfast is served at Oinou Strata – Adults Only?

The breakfast at Oinou Strata is a serious and elaborate affair! It is, of course, breakfast in bed, and by that, I mean that there is no breakfast area or anything of the sort. Instead, every morning, a huge spread of continental breakfast goodies will be waiting for you in your fridge inside the room, or delivered to your door 🙂

Adults only hotels Cyprus – The Breakfast at Oinou Strata

And what a breakfast it is! You will find individually wrapped containers with fresh orange juice, milk, bread, butter and jam, cheese, and other cold cuts! Additionally, yogurt with muesli, a Nespresso machine, toaster, and kettle.

Everything you need for a glorious breakfast, right in the comfort of your room. Blissful.

How much does it cost to stay at Oinou Strata – Adults Only?

The prices at Oinou Strata – Adults Only will vary depending on your stay particularly the time you wish to visit! Seeing as this is located in Vouni Village, it books up VERY quickly in the winter and the prices are higher during that time! To see prices, enter your dates here

Thank you for reading through my review of the beautiful Oinou Strata which you can book here! Don’t forget to subscribe below for travel discounts and FREE gifts!

Love, Tia

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