The Troodos Mountains are another Cyprus. Here, the traditional ways of life still hold sway in the sleepy stone villages that dot the tree-clad valleys. What’s more, these highlands are the spiritual heart of the island. Monasteries such as those of Kykkos, Chrysoroyiatissa and St John Lampadistis attract both the faithful and the curious. And the region’s painted Byzantine churches are so rare and precious that they’re a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can expect luxuriant landscapes and cooler climes, which offer a pleasing contrast to the coast. There are iconic landmarks such as the medieval Tzelefos Bridge, romantic vineyards such as those in the southern slopes and timeworn villages where they still make artisan products. The villages of the Troodos Mountains are the sort of places where you still find old men playing backgammon in coffee shops and old ladies knitting outside their doors.
There’s so much to see and discover, to sample and savour, that the best way to get a snapshot of this fascinating is a guided tour from one of the coastal areas. Most of these excursions visit the top attractions, such as the UNESCO-listed churches and the monasteries, along with wineries.
