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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