In this article, I am giving you not one, not two, but 12 unique and exciting things to do In Phini, whilst exploring the village and agrotourism scene in Cyprus.

WATCH THE VIDEO OF THIS ARTICLE HERE

A little bit about Phini Village

Phini is built at an average altitude of 920 meters, between steep slopes and high, mountain-green mountain peaks.

For instance, the altitude means you can escape the scorching Cyprus heat, with cooler temperatures all year, and additionally, little to no humidity!

The beauty of Phini with its picturesque houses and taverns is completed by the waterfall Chandara and the impressive Trooditissa monastery located in the north of the village.

Additionally, I recommend trying the local Loukoumi and of course, taking part in a pottery workshop – an art for which the village of Phini is famous.

Furthermore, the difficult but interesting nature trail of Phini-Trooditissa is worth it for hiking and cycling lovers alike!

In addition, a visit to the village but also to the neighboring villages of Prodromos and Lemythou will bring you closer to nature, tradition, and the simple and unpretentious way of life.

So let’s dive right, into the 12 most exciting things to do in Phini!

1. Eat homemade Loukoumia at Ourania Delights

Loukoumi, otherwise known as ”Turkish Delight” is a family of confections based on a gel of starch and sugar chopped into bite-sized cubes and topped with icing sugar.

At Ouranias Delights, you can enjoy fresh loukoumi that is made traditionally every day!

For instance, Loukoumi in Cyprus can be found in a huge array of flavors, but here, you can choose between bergamot or rose, with almonds or without.

Trust me, you will thank me for proposing the ones that are fresh and authentic and not made in a factory!

To visit, call Mrs Ourania Pissourou (+357 99 379989)

2. Walk around Phini village

After a bite ( or ten) or loukoumi, it’s time to walk around the village and soak up the culture!

Here you can walk down the old streets, admire the traditional stone-built homes, and see the locals taking care of their courtyards and gardens ( all immaculate).

Be prepared to be invited inside for coffee and sweets – the people at Phini are extremely hospitable!

Whilst walking, you will see the bell tower of the Timios Stavros church, which has stood in the village for approximately 155 years, and definitely deserves a visit!

After that, If you love museums then the small but unique Pilavakeio Museum of Traditional Art (+357 25 421508), is located in the village center. 

The museum is displaying traditional farming instruments and vases and photographs of the Cypriot life from many years ago.

At the Pastra traditional coffee shop (+357 99 066783), you will find most of the locals enjoying their Cypriot coffee and interacting with each other.

Try frape (iced coffee) or a good strong Cyprus coffee ( like espresso, Turkish or Arabic coffee)

3. Take part in a Pottery making workshop

The village of Phini developed an extensive tradition in pottery, the history of which goes back into the centuries.

The pots manufactured until today in this village are red, porous, and similar to those of Kornos.

In the past, this craft was a profitable occupation for a large number of inhabitants that supported entire families.

Nowadays, pottery is mostly a women’s profession, but back then, the men were mainly jar makers, and the women manufactured objects for the house and for carrying water.

During the weekends, you can take part in a pottery workshop – by the wonderful Giota Aristidou.

With her guidance and infectious energy, you can learn to create clay masterpieces too!

Giota is determined to preserve pottery art in Phini, and in conclusion, she is not doing this for profit per se. She only charges 4 euros per workshop, which lasts up to 2 hours – an absolute bargain!

Alternatively, you can visit her shop simply to admire her art or buy some of her creations – priced equally cheaply in my opinion!

To arrange a visit, call Giota Aristidou at +357 99136262

4. Eat steak or meze at PHINI TAVERN AND RESTAURANT

If you have followed any of my travels, you know I am a steak fanatic. So I was very pleasantly surprised to find a restaurant in Phini, that specializes in…steak!

So yes, definitely do eat at Phini Tavern, if you fancy juicy, perfectly cooked steak in a beautiful courtyard surrounded by forest and green!

For bookings: 25 421828

5. Explore the beautiful Chantara Waterfalls

An absolute highlight in Phini is undoubtedly the Chantara waterfall, found on the river Dhiarizos, just north of the village.

The waterfall emerges through a wild landscape filled with all sorts of trees – like plane trees, ivy, pine trees, golden oaks, sage, and lavender, giving guests wonderful scents.

Chantara is an 8meters high waterfall. The sounds of the water falling into the small lake below, along with the birds singing are truly magical.

There are little benches you can relax on, and a small nature trail so you can witness the waterfall from the top.

What I love even more is the fact that access to this is SO easy. Simply drive a few meters down a dirt road, park and you are there!

No hiking or walking is necessary, therefore perfect for people with disabilities too.

6. Find Peace and Serenity at Trooditissa Monastery

Located on the southern slopes of the Troodos mountain range, you will find the 13th-century picturesque Trooditissa Monastery

The small but beautiful church of the monastery was built in 1731. Inside, you will find a priceless silver-leaf-covered icon of the Virgin Mary.

It is said, that the icon helps childless families produce heirs.

The church, as well as the monastic buildings, can be dated back to the 18th-20th century!

This is a male monastery, where everyone peacefully coexists on the grounds and contributes with chores – like fruit picking, gardening, and cleaning.

Rules of Conduct

Trooditissa monastery is open to visitors only. Please dress modestly when visiting, although I would suggest that call ahead before you visit.

Practice being quiet and respectful, and avoid taking any pictures or videos with any monks in your shot!

7. Hike or bike the Phini-Trooditissa Nature Trail

Are you ready for a challenge?

The linear nature trail of Phini- Trooditissa, is a 4.5km hike through the forest, that takes approximately 2hours to hike!

It crosses the Trooditissa River, Chantara Waterfall, and Phini Village. Nature lovers will spot many bird species as well as golden oak and strawberry trees and Calabrian pine!

8. Take a road trip to the neighboring villages

Phini, like so many Cyprus villages, is connected to many other villages that are super easy to access by car!

Prodromos is only a 13km drive, Lemithou village is 14 km away, and the beautiful village of Platres ( there are so many amazing things to do in Platres) is a mere 4km drive!

Prodromos Village

Prodromos is a village that became a popular tourist resort thanks to the creation of the Berengaria hotel, as well as various mountain excursions.

The village boasts a wonderful climate and impressive natural beauty, as it is surrounded by lush greenery and the wonderful, fresh scent of pines.

Lemithou Village

Lemithou village is one of the highest in Cyprus at an altitude of 1200 meters in the heart of Troodos.

The sleepy village only has a mere 25 permanent residents! It is located in a unique natural landscape with magnificent evergreen forests and exclusive deep valleys.

This is the village I chose to stay in for 2 nights. I needed some peace and quiet after 2 full days of fab road trips and exploring! ( Keep reading for more on my accommodation)

The village’s main attractions are the 16th-century church of Ayios Theodoros and the church of Panayia Iamatiki which houses the 17th-century icon of the Virgin Mary.

Activities in Lemithou

• Lemithou is great for hiking and cycling enthusiasts as there are numerous nature trails and paths to explore. As for the ski fanatics, in the winter the Troodos ski centre is located only 8 km away from Themis House.
• As far as religious tourism goes, you are also in luck! The famous Byzantine Monasteries of Kykkos, Trooditissa and Trikoukkia, are located very close to the area.
• Wine lovers will also love exploring the wine villages of Cyprus, through an endless wine route, near Themis House. You can visit the wineries, take tours and taste the local wines and other local varieties from the unique vineyards.

9. Check out the haunted Verengaria Hotel – Prodromos Village

Built in 1931 Berengaria was a legendary hotel that was a haven for Royals and Presidents from all around the world.

It used to have a built-in casino, and nightclub, that attracted a beautiful and eclectic crowd! The gatherings, parties, and meetings at Berengaria were legendary!

This majestic hotel is now a shadow of its former self, and many urban legends say that the hotel is haunted.

Currently, the hotel has been sold for a reported 2million Euros and access to it is impossible.

Bear in mind, that it is barely standing! There have always been warning signs not to enter it for your own safety but people took the risk just to walk its grounds.

Now, It is impossible to access it, as it has alarm systems inside.

We were able to fly our drone on top of it and use the camera to take a look at it!

Locals in Prodromos village say that the hotel will be rebuilt from new to look just like the original, and I will be the first to book a room – especially in the ”haunted rooms”!

10. Fuel up with a Cypriot Buffet at The Byzantio Restaurant

Byzantio restaurant is a great place for lunch if you are in Prodromos village! Close to practically everything I mention in this article, and located right in the middle of the square too.

At Byzantio, you can find a spot for coffee, sweets, and a gorgeous Cypriot buffet too for lunch!

The buffet is extensive and filled with traditional Cypriot dishes you won’t find in all tavernas on the island!

In this family business of over 20 years, you can enjoy both an indoor and outdoor space for seating. In the winter, a big plate of hot homemade soup in front of the open fireplace is pure heaven!

For bookings: 99 430132

11. Discover the Prodromos Reservoir and its picnic/camping site

This is a fantastic spot for picnics and camping with a gorgeous view!

You can combine a relaxing stroll in nature or even a hike in the 2 nearby trails. Meanwhile, the views of the Prodromos Dam that contains 122.000 cubic meters of water are super soothing!

The whole area is nestled in a pine forest, providing fantastic views and shade. The picnic site alone, with its kiosks and wooden benches, can host up to 250 guests.

This area is also great for children as it has a fenced playground that they can safely play in.

The facilities of the picnic site are accessible for people with disabilities.

Find it here

12. Experience true Cypriot Hospitality and comfort at Themis House Lemithou

Themis House is a restored beautiful stone-built guest house. It is hidden in the lush natural landscape of Troodos in the beautiful village of Lemithou.

There are 10 studios for rent in this 2-floor complex, that can be rented individually or all together for larger gatherings and parties!

The Rooms

Each room is fully equipped for comfort, with free wifi, central heating, and TV. Of course, there’s a kitchen too, although you will hardly need to use it when you taste the deliciousness of the kitchen downstairs!

Two of the rooms feature their own jacuzzi! all of the rooms open to their own private terrace with panoramic views of the Troodos mountains.

The view is truly magical! The prices are insane, you can literally rent a room for two, with a jacuzzi for 60 euros a night!

6 of the rooms are on the top floor that is completed by an outdoor pool. The other 4 are situated downstairs next to the large stone-built courtyard, with views of the entire village.

In the summer, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in the courtyard. This is a space that people love to use as it is surrounded by shade and perfect for relaxation.

In the winter, the indoor communal space with the fireplace is perfect for cozy nights with wine and board games.

The courtyard is fully equipped with everything one needs for a classic Cyprus barbeque. The amazing thing is, guests have full access to the facilities to cook their own barbeque on the premises!

The Food

The breakfast is priced at an extra 5 euros per person – that is worth every mouthwatering bite.

Eggs, cereals, cold meats, and cheeses! Then, jams, freshly baked bread, olives, and so much more! All this is served daily, and it’s all the fuel you need for a full day of exploring!

There is no set menu during lunch and dinner, but Mrs. Giannoula – the tireless host and owner never let us go hungry!

First, you are presented with a couple of food options. Then, off she goes to cook up a storm in her kitchen and create magic!

We ended up eating dinner there both nights and it was fantastic each time.

The hospitality is immaculate from everyone involved, but especially from Mrs, Giannoula, which is simply outstanding!

It comes as no surprise that Themis House, is constantly booked, and guests keep returning time and time again. 10/10 definitely recommend it!

Book Themis House here

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• 1. Episode 1 Wine Villages in Paphos – Cyprus Agrotourism in Pano Panayia, Letymbou, Lemona and Amargeti (And Video)
• 2. Episode 2 Culture, Nature and Wine in Kathikas, Arodes and Akamas Peninsula in Paphos (And Video_)
• 3. Episode 3 Omodos, Arsos and Ayios Amvrosios – the most picturesque villages in Limassol (And Video)
• 4. Episode 4 Vouni, Lofou and Koilani Villages – exploring Limassol Province (and Video)
• 5. Episode 5 Kalopanayiotis, Kykkos, and Pedoulas – Nicosia’s hidden village gems! (and Video )
• 6. Episode 6 Agrotourism in Cyprus – Farmakas, Palaichori, and Askas – Wine, Safari, and Nature! (and Video )
• 7. Episode 7 Tochni, Choirokitia, and Kalavasos – Basket Weaving, history, and cycling activities! (and Video)
• 8. Episode 8 Lefkara, Kato Drys, and Vavla – Lefkara lace designs, wineries, brunch, and bees! (and Video)
• 9. Season 2 Episode 1 Pelendri and Agros Cyprus – Rose factories, wineries, brunch, and religious tourism ( and Video)
• 10. Season 2 Episode 2 – Platres Cyprus and Pera Pedi – A nature lover’s paradise (and Video)
• 11. Season 2 Episode 3 – Paliometoxo and Nikitari – A gorgeous farm and religious tourism (and video)
• 12. Season 2 Episode 4 – Lympia, Skarinou, and Agios Theodoros – Street Art, donkey farms, and hiking trails (And Video)
• 13. Season 2 Episode 5 – Kakopetria and Galata – Nature, traditional architecture, and fantastic food (And Video)
• 14. Season 2 Episode 6 – Kyperounta – Wineries, hiking and religious tourism in Limassol (and Video)
• 15. Season 2 Episode 7 – Akamas and Paphos – Safari, nature and incredible landscapes ( and Video)
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• Protaras Villas – The Incredible Villa Oniro. A huge and luxurious villa in Protaras!
• Limassol Hotels – A Beautiful stay at The Crowne Plaza Limassol. A modest hotel in Limassol that you will highly appreciate!
• Alasia Boutique Hotel- Luxury and elegance. Elegance and understated luxury in the quiet part of Limassol

The post Phini Village – 12 Exciting Things To Do In Phini, Cyprus appeared first on Tia Does Travel.

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!

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!

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.

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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• 1. Episode 1 Wine Villages in Paphos – Cyprus Agrotourism in Pano Panayia, Letymbou, Lemona and Amargeti (And Video)
• 2. Episode 2 Culture, Nature and Wine in Kathikas, Arodes and Akamas Peninsula in Paphos (And Video_)
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• 4. Episode 4 Vouni, Lofou and Koilani Villages – exploring Limassol Province (and Video)
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The post Cyprus Villages – Adorable Farm Visits And Religious Tourism appeared first on Tia Does Travel.

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!

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.

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.

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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• Napa Mermaid – The most incredible hotel in Ayia Napa– Looking for a proper hotel in Napa? Say no more!
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• Protaras Villas – The Incredible Villa Oniro. A huge and luxurious villa in Protaras!
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• Alasia Boutique Hotel- Luxury and elegance. Elegance and understated luxury in the quiet part of Limassol

The post Platres Cyprus – The 14 Best Things To Explore On This Nature’s Paradise appeared first on Tia Does Travel.

In the rare event that you are not still sold on visiting Cyprus, this travel website is perfect for you! I have TONS of articles on the island, from the secret beaches, top things to do in each city, where to stay in Cyprus, things you should know before you visit and more! Additionally, I am filming my own Cyprus travel show, and because of this, I toured Cyprus extensively – 30+ villages, dozens of hotels, restaurants, beach clubs, bars and so much more!

Best time to Visit Cyprus

Best time to visit Cyprus – According to Weather

”Cyprus is sunny and hot all year round” – NO IT IS NOT! Yes, our winter and rain season is small, but it is there, so if you are dreaming of sunning it up at the best beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras in February…well, think again!

Let me help you by dividing Cyprus into seasons! Anything over 30 degrees Celsius in summer, 20-30 is spring or Autumn and 0-20 is winter

When to visit Cyprus – Warm Weather

Summer: Mid May, June, July, August, September, October. Temperature = 30-45 degrees. Yes, 45!

This is tanning season – and a time when Cyprus is FULL of events – beach parties, concerts, festivals, and so on!

You can still visit the mountains and villages to escape the scorching heat, but sightseeing will need meticulous care to avoid sunstroke.

A good hat, good quality Sunglasses, high SPF, and so on are vital – the sun in Cyprus is STRONG!

Spring/Autumn: November, April, Beginning of May. Temperature = 20-30 degrees.

This is perfect for nature/ hiking lovers. If you want to explore Cyprus city by city this is a perfect time!

Nature is in full bloom, the forests are green, and the weather is optimal for tons of outdoor activities and sightseeing.

You will still get a tan, but at a much more comfortable level!

When to visit Cyprus – colder weather

Winter: Late December, January, February. Temperature = 10-17 degrees, with temps dropping to 0 in the evening!

Here is where rain will most likely occur. It doesn’t rain often, but it pours and floods everything in sight when it does!

Certain cities like Ayia Napa and Protaras feel like ghost towns, and no one goes to the beach apart from the brave to love winter swimming!

The mountains are snowy (sometimes) if you are into that type of thing though!

The next paragraph will help you find a time with the perfect weather and budget for YOU

Best time to visit Cyprus – According to Budget

Cyprus is not a very cheap island! Traveling during the high season can cost a pretty penny – but this of course heavily depends on the accommodation you wish to have, the transportation means you choose, and the activities you take.

There is a detailed budget plan in my Local’s Guide to Cyprus, but in short; high season should be avoided if you want to keep the costs down!

High Season (Inflated Prices). Mid to end of June, July, August.

Hotels are mostly fully booked during that time, so making early plans is advisable!

There are a few national holidays (see below) that fall into those months, which makes everything that much busier (with plenty of events)

Low Season: January, February, March.

Beach-side hotels are mostly closed, but there are beautiful village cottages with jacuzzis and fireplaces for a perfect little getaway!

Thing is, those ones have their prices up during that time!

Best time to visit Cyprus – National Holidays

Carnival – February.

Carnival takes place on February,10 or 12 days before Easter lent!

All cities, but especially Limassol, perform HUGE celebrations, for the event! Limassol practically closes down for 4 days with street and bar parties taking place before and after the two big carnival celebrations on Saturday and Sunday.

Kids and adults alike dress up and party all day and all night – you will love it!

The flood Festival: ”Kataklismos” 21st June

Kataklysmos” is a religious and popular feast celebrated in Cyprus.
“Kataklysmos”, which means flood, is found in the book of Genesis and in the Greek myth of Deukalion.

In both cases, it refers to the destruction by flood of almost all living creatures in order to give birth to a new and moral generation. The celebrations last for a few days and take place in all seaside towns.

Celebrations include various games, swimming competitions, boat races, performances of folk dances, and more.

The most popular custom of “Kataklysmos” is throwing water to one another (which symbolizes the purification of the body and soul) so be aware!

Additionally, there are a TON of concerts, beach parties, and boat parties during the 3-day celebration! Bring your best beach outfits and get ready to party!

Assumption Day : 15th August

Assumption day in Cyprus is one of the most celebrated in the country!

It signifies the bodily taking up of Mary, the mother of Jesus, into Heaven at the end of her earthly life.

It is a National Holiday for the entire island – therefore it is probably one of the worst times to visit because everyone arranges their summer holidays the week before AND after the date.

As a result, it is packed to the brim, from the hotels to the beaches, the clubs, and the restaurants! Avoid a visit during that time and save your wallet and sanity!

Best time to visit Cyprus – Religious Restrictions

As I mentioned in my Cyprus travel blog, Cyprus is a Christian Orthodox country.

This means that we do not have ”restricting” holidays like Ramadan (Which I personally find to be a beautiful holiday, that doesn’t heavily restrict travel at all). ‘

In Cyprus, Christmas and Easter time are very important in terms of religion, and a lot of people fast for 40 days before Xmas and 50 days before Easter.

This means cutting out all meat, dairy, and other animal products such as eggs for example. Lentils, plenty of Greek salads, vegetables, and carbs are key ingredients to our diet during this time.

However, all restaurants continue to serve ALL meals, including meat and fish so you do not need to fast at all!

During Easter – bars and nightclubs remain CLOSED – for about 5 days or so – starting from Holy Thursday, so if you wish to be out and about after hours, it is definitely something to consider when debating the best time to visit Cyprus.

Important note: Each year, the holiday falls on a different day (it is NOT the same date as Catholic Easter), so if you are visiting during April/May, check the dates for Easter before you book.

Thank you for reading my article about the best time to visit Cyprus! Make sure to subscribe below for more Cyprus content!

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The post Best time to Visit Cyprus – Explore Paradise For Less With A Local’s Tips appeared first on Tia Does Travel.

Top Life-saving items to bring to Cyprus

Sun Allergy lotion and after-sun. Everybody wants to tan beautifully. But the sun in Cyprus is incredibly low and intense, which can burn your skin in no time, and bring out all sorts of allergic sun reactions that can seriously ruin your holidays! This is the best sun allergy brand I have found – I have been using it for over 3 years now and no more sunburns and sunspots! The after-sun lotion doubles up as a tan intensifier too, winner! You cannot find the allergy range in Cyprus, so I buy mine off Amazon.

Portable Ashtray / Mini Bin. With so many Blue flag beaches, Cyprus is a nature’s paradise that needs YOUR help to stay clean and pristine for generations to come. I ADORE this portable ashtray for many reasons. At the beach, Its cone shape means I can stick it in the sand all day long, and use for cigarette butts, chewing gum, and other small pieces of garbage I don’t want to litter the beach with. It is also always on the side pocket of my backpack, so I can use it when I hike, trek mountains and jungles, go camping and more! TIP: whilst driving, do NOT throw cigarette butts out the window. The intense heat can make ur butt responsible for igniting a wildfire in the Cyprus forests that can last for days!

 Activated Charcoal tablets to save your stomach from a multitude of sins. Such as heavy eating and drinking (you will likely do both), upset stomach, mild food poisoning, IBS flare-ups, diarrhea, nausea and more

Tia Does Travel contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. For full information, take a look at our disclaimer here

Beaches in Ayia Napa

The busy and party central beach of Nissi Beach. Its a rite of passage, for sure! This gorgeous beach is actually made out of 2 connecting beaches. One is long and lively, the other smaller and quieter. The beaches have golden sands and the waters are clean and clear. It is possible to walk out for up to a hundred meters without the water passing your waist and there are many sand bars in the shallows. The Nissi Beach Bar plays incredible music all day long, and hosts parties daily!

Sandy Beach/ Gliki Nero Beach. Think of fine white sands that spread from the harbor to the Ayia Napa sea caves and you’ve got yourself, Gliki Nero! The atmosphere is relaxed and laid back and there is a restaurant at the top where you can have lunch or drinks. Exactly opposite the beach, you will find my favorite hotel in Ayia Napa, the Napa Mermaid Hotel.

Book this hotel here

Sandy Bay a sheltered beach close to Nissi Beach, nestled between two headlands. It is popular with families for its low key vibes and views of Napa and its coastlines.

Ammos you Kampouri. My favorite off the beaten track hidden beach! You can reach it via an unsurfaced pathway just past the Ayia Napa sea caves. It is a small quiet sandy beach with plenty of rock pools. I’ve got a whole review on this secret beach with directions!

Sun safety Tip

Don’t forget that the Cyprus sun is STRONG! You could literally burn yourself to a crisp in as little as one hour! The intensity of the sun also often makes the skin react in the form of skin rashes etc. My favorite sunscreen of all time is the Piz Buin Sun Allergy range! I have the SPF 30 lotion, and SPF 15 spray and I change between them all summer depending on my needs. In the evening, I also moisturize intensively with their After sun lotion which is also a tan intensifier! WIN!

More Beaches in Ayia Napa

Makronisos Beach – perfect for families, as well as locals and tourists looking for peace and quiet! Macronissos Beach is actually 3 beaches in one, a big one and two smaller ones. You can find Makronissos beach at the western edge of Ayia Napa! Go there if you want golden sand, clear water, and a little peace and quiet.

Ayia Thekla beach is a small beach and lots of small private patches of sand along the coastline. Perfect for relaxing away from it all with a good book and the sound of crashing waves!

Kaliva Beach Bar – Its time to party in style! Kaliva beach bar is a hugely popular beach bar in Ayia Napa, and much favored by locals! You can spend your day relaxing by the sea, or if you are lucky, rent a sunbed on the beach bar itself (15 euros per lounger)

Beaches in Protaras

Konnos Beach aka perfection! A picturesque Blue Flag beach, a mile east of Ayia Napa on the Protaras road, close to the dramatic, rugged coastline of Cavo Greco, a national forest park with excellent nature trails. Expect to find excellent views, clear waters, incredible sunsets, and photography spots! There is a bar at the top of the cliff – but it’s a bit of an uphill climb to get there!

Health Tip

Make sure you drink plenty of water! The thing is though, water in Cyprus stays cold for approximately 5 minutes! Additionally, plastic bottles need to become a thing of the past. Period! So invest in a good reusable and leakproof water bottle, that keeps cold water cold for 24 glorious hours. Simple, smart, ecofriendly. What’s not to love about that!

Nava Beach Bar. The exclusive and gorgeous Nava Beach Bar in Protaras for a taste of the high life and the best parties! Nava comes with a price tag, and sun loungers come with a minimum spend! Some of the best outdoor parties and concerts take place here, starting from 5 pm to the early hours of the morning!

Green Bay Beach – Green Bay Beach in Protaras is a lovely little secluded beach ideal for diving, snorkeling, and lazy day sun lounging.

Fig Tree Bay, or anywhere along that long stretch of road in the center of Protaras, like Sunrise Beach! It comes as no surprise that Figtree Bay has been voted one of the best beaches in Cyprus! The sandy beach stretches for 500m and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation.

More beaches in Protaras

Sirena Bay. I adore this place as its one of the best beaches along this coastline! In Sirena Bay, you’ll find a tiny secluded cove with only a single bar and restaurant.

Malama Beach. A sheltered cove beach, perfect for children, with a cute little bar to cater for needs! Make sure you snorkel too! Being a little bit off the beaten path gives the Malama Beach a quieter feel.

Vizakia Beach. Fun fact: Vizakia literally translates to small boobs. LOL. I mean…why?! Anyways apart from the hilarious name, you will love this beach! The water is very shallow, with the same golden sands you will come to love in Ayia Napa and Protaras.

Kapparis – The only (sad, I know) dog-friendly beach in the area!

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Thank you guys, for reading through this article of the most beautiful beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras! I hope I have inspired you to travel to my beautiful country, and explore its many treasures and delights! Have you been to Cyprus? Let me know in the comments!

Love, Tia x

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