Paphos – Troodos mountains: To the highest peaks.

Paphos – Troodos Mountains: To the Highest Peaks offers a journey into the heart of Cyprus, where mountains, history, and local culture collide in a single day. For around 9 hours, you’ll be whisked from the coast into the cool air of the Troodos range, visiting villages built of white limestone, walking through serene forests, and standing atop Cyprus’ highest points. Led by knowledgeable guides like Michalis, this tour combines scenic beauty, authentic villages, and memorable stories — all in a small-group setting that emphasizes personal attention.

What we love about this tour is its balance of nature, history, and local flavor. The off-road adventures in the 4×4 Land Rover, along with the chance to walk in quiet forests near a 500-year-old Venetian bridge, make it a real exploration rather than just a sightseeing drive. Plus, the stops for delicious, affordable local food give you a taste of authentic Cypriot life.

A possible consideration is that the tour involves some walking in uneven terrain and mountain roads, so comfortable shoes and preparation for changing weather are essential. If you’re someone who appreciates small groups, personalized stories, and diverse landscapes, this trip is a perfect fit. It especially appeals to travelers eager to see beyond the typical tourist spots and get a true feel for Cyprus’ mountain villages and natural beauty.

Key Points

• Small Group & Personal Attention: Limited to eight participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Rich Mix of Nature & Culture: Combines scenic walks, village visits, and historical sites like Kykkos Monastery.
• Off-Road Adventure: Includes fun drives along mountain tracks in a fully-licensed Land Rover Defender.
• Authentic Local Experience: Stops at traditional villages and a chance to chat with locals.
• Great Value: All logistics covered with hotel pickup, guide, Wi-Fi, and a full day of exploring.
• Highly Praised Guides: Many reviews highlight knowledgeable, friendly guides who go above and beyond.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Cyprus’ Mountain Majesty

This tour is designed for those who want more than just a quick look at Cyprus’ mountain scenery. Instead, it offers a comprehensive, well-paced day that balances breathtaking vistas with cultural insights and authentic experiences. The journey begins with a hotel pickup, usually between 8:30 and 9:15, depending on your location in the Paphos District. From there, you’ll hop into a fully-licensed 4×4 Land Rover Defender, perfect for navigating mountain tracks and village roads that larger buses simply can’t access.

The Scenic Drive Through the Foothills and Villages

Within the first hour or two, you’ll be cruising through the picturesque Troodos foothill villages. These villages, built from white limestone and dark igneous stones, exude traditional charm. Michalis, a guide praised for his local knowledge and friendly demeanor, often stops in one village for a coffee break. Many reviews highlight how he takes the time to share stories about life in these mountain communities, making the scenery more meaningful.

Travelers love the way the guide balances historical tidbits with fun anecdotes, with one reviewer noting, “Michalis was very knowledgeable, a pleasure to listen to throughout the trip.” These small stops give you time to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and snap photos of colorful stone houses and flower-filled courtyards.

Walking in Forests & Visiting the Venetian Bridge

One of the tour’s highlights is a serene walk through Cyprus forests near a 500-year-old Venetian bridge. This isn’t just a quick photo stop — you’ll have time to stroll along woodland paths, breathing in the clean mountain air and listening to the sounds of nature. It’s a peaceful contrast to the more bustling villages, offering a chance to disconnect and enjoy the natural landscape. Travelers frequently mention how much they appreciated these tranquil walks, with comments like “The walk in the woods along the river to the bridge was fabulous. We could have spent hours there.”

Elevation & Mountain Peaks

The trip then pushes higher into the mountains, taking you to Cyprus’ top peaks near 2,000 meters. Most of the tour is spent above 1,000 meters, where the air is crisp and the views unfold in every direction. As you ascend, you’ll notice a change in flora, transitioning to more alpine plants and rugged terrain. The drive is as scenic as the walks, with many travelers describing it as “an off-road adventure that felt like being on a different planet.”

At the highest points, you’ll have the chance to stand at the summit of Cyprus’ highest peaks, taking in vistas that stretch across the island or even into Turkey’s coastline on clear days. One reviewer captures the experience perfectly: “We loved the way the guide knew just where to stop for photos — every turn brought a new stunning view.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Kykkos Monastery

A cornerstone of this trip is the visit to Kykkos Monastery, a famous religious site with a history dating back centuries. It’s a place many reviews highlight as a must-see for its architecture, icons, and atmosphere. The guide often shares stories about its importance and how it has influenced Cyprus for generations.

This stop provides a cultural counterpoint to the natural beauty, with some visitors noting that it adds depth to the experience. As one reviewer says, “The monastery’s history and the peaceful surroundings made it a highlight of the day.”

Village of Pedoulas & Local Cuisine

In Pedoulas, you’ll have free time to explore the village or grab a meal at a traditional tavern. The tour includes a lunch stop at a restaurant with spectacular views, where you can buy hearty, reasonably priced Cypriot dishes, including local trout — a recommendation many reviewers follow up on with delight (“Yummy trout, just as recommended!”). This meal adds to the authenticity and value of the tour, making it more than just sightseeing.

Descending & Omodos Village

After descending from the high peaks, you’ll visit Omodos, a charming village famous for its narrow, stone-paved alleys. This is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, some souvenir shopping, or simply soaking up the quaint atmosphere. Many travelers comment on how the picturesque streets and local artisans make it a memorable stop.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves nature, history, and authentic village life, this tour hits all three. It’s especially suited for active travelers comfortable with walking and some uneven terrain. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for personalized stories and plenty of interaction. If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that offers a taste of everything — stunning scenery, mountain hikes, cultural sites, and delicious local food — this is a strong choice.

Summary of What Makes This Tour Stand Out

• Personalized small-group experience with knowledgeable guides like Michalis.
• Diverse highlights: from mountain peaks and forests to historic monasteries and picturesque villages.
• Off-road fun in a fully-licensed Land Rover Defender, allowing access to hidden spots.
• Authentic food stops with affordable, tasty meals.
• Stunning panoramic views at high elevations, perfect for photos.
• Rich storytelling and local insights that bring each stop to life.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts about 9 hours, starting between 8:30 and 9:15, depending on your location in Paphos. The fully-licensed Land Rover provides a smooth ride over mountain tracks, though travelers should prepare for some bumpy sections. The tour is limited to eight participants, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience rather than a crowded bus.

What to bring: Comfortable shoes for walking, water, and clothes suitable for mountain weather — it can be cooler and sometimes unpredictable. The tour includes a lunch stop at a scenic restaurant, where you can purchase local dishes at reasonable prices.

Accessibility: This experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, wheelchair users, or small children under one year. Also, if you’ve been diving recently, it’s advised to check with your doctor before joining.

Cancellation policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for changing plans.

Authentic Experiences Reported by Travelers

The reviews paint a clear picture of a tour that resonates with many. People love the expert guides who go into depth with history and culture, making the experience more meaningful. The stunning scenery is a universal highlight, with many mentioning how the views from the highest peaks are unforgettable.

The delicious local food is another big plus, with travelers relishing the opportunity to taste genuine Cypriot cuisine. The stops at charming villages like Omodos are appreciated for their authenticity and photo-worthy alleys.

Many reviewers talk about the value for money, noting that the full-day experience with transport, guide, and multiple stops surpasses their expectations. The small group size and personalized attention also earn high praise, as it allows for a more relaxed, engaging day.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a well-rounded day of exploration in Cyprus — combining breathtaking mountain views, historic sites, quaint villages, and delicious local cuisine — this tour is hard to beat. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy active outdoor experiences and value local storytelling. The small-group format and expert guides ensure that you’ll feel cared for and informed every step of the way.

This trip offers more than just sightseeing; it’s an immersive journey that reveals the soul of Cyprus’ mountains and its people. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or someone looking to escape the coast’s heat, you’ll find plenty to love here.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is from any hotel or apartment in the Paphos District, with specific times between 8:30 and 9:15 based on your location.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop and absorb the scenery.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and clothes suitable for mountain weather are recommended. Be prepared for some walking and variable conditions.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but a stop at a traditional village restaurant is included, where you can purchase a meal at reasonable prices.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s best for those who are comfortable walking and in good health. It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or those with mobility issues.

How many people are in the group?
Limited to 8 participants, making it a small, personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in English.

Is there any off-road driving involved?
Yes, the trip includes fun off-road sections in a fully-licensed Land Rover Defender, accessing places larger vehicles can’t reach.

In summary, this tour offers a well-balanced, immersive experience into Cyprus’ mountains and villages that suits curious, active travelers craving genuine insights and stunning scenery. It’s a day that will leave you with lasting memories of Cyprus’ highlands, hearty food, and friendly stories — a true highlight for anyone exploring this beautiful island.

You can check availability for your dates here: