Tour to Troodos, Kykkos Monastery, Omodos and Winery from Paphos

Exploring the Troodos Mountains and Hidden Gems from Paphos

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path during your visit to Cyprus, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s mountain villages, religious sites, and local flavors. For around $60, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring some of the most scenic spots in the Troodos region with a friendly guide who shares stories and insights along the way. Highlights include the charming village of Omodos, the impressive Kykkos Monastery, the tomb of Archbishop Makarios, and a tasting at a traditional Lambouri Winery.

What we love about this experience is the combination of beautiful scenery, authentic local culture, and the chance to taste some of Cyprus’s finest wines—an excellent way to soak in the island’s character. The round-trip hotel transfer makes logistics simple, especially if you’re based in Paphos. Plus, the relatively modest price includes entrance fees, a guide, and wine tastings, making it a pretty good deal for a full day of sightseeing.

A possible consideration is the mountain roads—if you’re prone to motion sickness, bringing medication or taking precautions might be wise. Also, some reviews mention the pace can be a bit quick at certain sites, so if you’re looking for a very leisurely day, this might feel a tad rushed.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy culture, scenic drives, and small-group experiences. It’s especially ideal for those who want a taste of authentic Cyprus beyond the beaches, with the opportunity to learn and taste along the way.

Key Points

Stunning Views: Experience expansive vistas of cedar forests, vineyards, and mountain peaks.
Authentic Culture: Visit traditional villages, a renowned monastery, and a historic tomb.
Wine Tasting: Enjoy free samples of Commandaria and Zivania at a local winery.
Convenience: Round-trip transportation from Paphos simplifies the day.
Value: For the price, you get a guided tour, multiple stops, and tastings.
Age & Comfort: Moderate walking required; sturdy shoes recommended, and knee/shoulder coverage for monasteries.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins in Paphos at 8:30 am, with pickup included from your hotel. The group maxes out at around 19 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience—meaning your guide can answer questions and share insights without being rushed. The transportation is air-conditioned, comfortable, and driven by a professional driver, making the long mountain drives more relaxing than stressful.

Exploring Omodos Village

Your first stop is Omodos, a picture-perfect village famous for its traditional architecture and cobblestone streets. We loved the way the village square buzzes with life—cafes, shops, and artisans blending old-world charm with local energy. With about 40 minutes here, you have time to stroll, snap photos, and maybe pick up some souvenirs from local craftspeople. Reviewers have appreciated how this stop feels authentic and unspoiled, with one mentioning how memorable it was to share fresh cherries bought along the way.

The Magnificent Kykkos Monastery

Next, your journey takes you through mountain villages of Pedoulas and Prodromos toward Kykkos Monastery, a site that truly deserves its reputation as Cyprus’s most famous monastery. This 40-minute stop is perfect for appreciating Byzantine architecture and the famous icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to have been painted by St. Luke himself. Visitors will find the monastery’s setting both serene and impressive, with lush greenery and mountain views.

Reviews highlight the monastery’s beauty and spiritual atmosphere. One reviewer appreciated how the guide provided helpful information, making the visit more meaningful. Remember to dress modestly—knees and shoulders covered—as respect for religious sites is a must.

The Tomb of Archbishop Makarios

Perched on Mount Throni, the Tomb of Archbishop Makarios offers a poignant glimpse into Cyprus’s recent history. This 40-minute stop provides context about Makarios’s role as a spiritual and political leader. The high-altitude setting (at 1,318 meters) affords sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, making it a memorable photo opportunity.

Our guides often share stories of Cyprus’s political history here, and reviews mention it’s a “symbol of the strong connection between religion and politics” in the country. It’s a reflective stop that resonates with those interested in Cyprus’s modern story.

Free Time in Troodos and Lunch

After these cultural visits, you’ll have over an hour of free time in the mountains. Some travelers choose to relax, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or browse souvenirs. There are cafes and small shops available—ideal for sampling local foods or picking up gifts. Many reviewers found this a pleasant break from sightseeing, appreciating the chance to stretch their legs and enjoy the mountain air.

Wine Tasting at Lambouri Winery

The day concludes with a visit to Lambouri Winery, where you’ll get to taste Commandaria, Cyprus’s famous sweet wine, along with Zivania and other local varieties. This tasting is a highlight for many, as it offers a taste of Cyprus’s wine-making tradition in a traditional setting. The 30-minute stop is relaxed, and many reviewers appreciated the free wine samples and the chance to learn about local winemaking.

What the Tour Does Well

The itinerary balance is one of the main strengths. You get a taste of mountain scenery, cultural heritage, and local flavors within a manageable day. The small group size ensures your guide can be personable, making the experience more engaging and informative.

The value for money is notable, with entrance fees, wine tastings, and transportation all included in the price. Many appreciate the relaxed pace and the opportunity to ask questions, making the day both enjoyable and educational.

Authentic Experiences

Multiple reviews mention how the tour provides an authentic glimpse of Cyprus’s religious and rural traditions. Visitors comment on the beautiful monastery, the charming village of Omodos, and the historic tomb—sites that reveal a side of Cyprus often missed by casual travelers.

Scenic Drives and Views

Traveling through the Troodos Mountains is a visual treat. The roads wind through dense cedar forests and across terraced vineyards, with plenty of photo opportunities. The guide’s commentary about the landscape enhances the visual experience, and many reviewers note they loved the “beautiful mountain scenery.”

Quality of the Wine Tasting

The wine tasting at Lambouri Winery is a highlight, especially for those who appreciate local vintages. The free samples of Commandaria and Zivania are generous, and the setting is informal and welcoming.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Some reviews point out that time at each location can feel a bit rushed, with only 40 minutes at major stops. If you prefer a very slow, in-depth exploration, this might not be enough.

The mountain roads can be narrow and winding, which might be uncomfortable for those prone to motion sickness. Bringing medication or choosing seats strategically in the vehicle can help.

Finally, the dress code for monasteries and churches requires covering shoulders and knees, so packing a shawl or scarf is advisable.

Who This Tour is Best For

This tour appeals most to culture and history enthusiasts eager to see Cyprus’s religious and rural traditions. It’s also great for wine lovers wanting to sample local vintages without the hassle of organizing separate visits. The small group setting makes it suitable for travelers who value personable guides and a relaxed pace.

If you’re after a scenic, educational day with a bit of wine tasting and authentic village life, this tour delivers in spades. However, if you prefer more time at each site or dislike winding mountain roads, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers from Paphos are included, making the day more convenient and stress-free.

How long are the stops?
Most stops are around 40 minutes, with some free time in Troodos for lunch or shopping. The winery visit lasts about 30 minutes.

Do I need to dress modestly?
Yes, for visits to monasteries and churches, shoulders and knees should be covered. Bringing a scarf or shawl is recommended.

Are there wine tastings included?
Absolutely. You’ll enjoy free samples of Commandaria, Zivania, and other local wines at Lambouri Winery.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking and standing, and visits are at sites with uneven surfaces. Be prepared for modest walking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the booking allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, for a full refund.

To sum it up, this full-day tour from Paphos offers a balanced and authentic snapshot of Cyprus’s mountain villages, religious sites, and wine culture. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, culture, and local flavors. The combination of stunning views, informative guides, and wine tastings makes it a worthwhile addition to your Cyprus itinerary—especially if you want a break from the coast and a taste of the island’s heritage and rural life. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring some patience, and prepare for winding mountain roads. This experience is a great way to see a different side of Cyprus—one filled with history, flavors, and mountain air.