Cyprus Wonders

Step off the coast and into the heart of Cyprus, where rolling vineyards, pine-clad mountains, and stone-built villages reveal a different side of the island. This 4-day itinerary takes you deep into the Troodos Mountains, through ancient wine routes, cobbled lanes, frescoed monasteries, and rustic tavernas serving the flavors of the highlands.

From legendary Commandaria wine to panoramic trails and authentic village stays, this is a journey for those who want to sip, savor, and slow down in the timeless beauty of rural Cyprus.

🍇 Troodos Wine & Mountain Villages: A 4-Day Itinerary of Vineyards, Monasteries & Traditional Life

• Location: Troodos Mountains & surrounding wine villages
• Focus: Wine culture, rural traditions, Byzantine heritage, mountain landscapes
• Perfect for: Food & wine lovers, couples, culture seekers, and nature enthusiasts

📅 Day 1: Into the Mountains – Lania & Omodos

Morning:
Begin your adventure by leaving the coast behind and driving inland toward the Troodos foothills. Your first stop is Lania, one of the oldest wine-making villages in Cyprus. Wander through its narrow lanes lined with flower-draped stone houses, peek into local artists’ workshops, and stop at the Commandaria Museum to learn about the island’s ancient sweet wine.

Afternoon:
Continue on to Omodos, a jewel among Cypriot villages. Famous for its historic wine presses and atmospheric square, Omodos is also home to the Monastery of the Holy Cross—a centuries-old pilgrimage site. Enjoy a slow lunch at a taverna in the square, paired with a glass of locally produced wine.

Tip: Don’t miss a stop at one of the traditional wine cellars where you can taste small-batch wines from indigenous Cypriot grapes like Xynisteri and Maratheftiko.

Evening:
Stay overnight in Omodos or a nearby guesthouse. As the sun sets, the village comes alive with soft lantern light and the gentle clink of glasses. Dinner options include:

• Stou Kir Yianni – An Omodos classic, serving rustic yet refined meze in a cozy stone house.
• Katoi Restaurant – Warm atmosphere, seasonal Cypriot dishes, and an excellent local wine list.

📅 Day 2: Wine Villages & Commandaria Route

Morning:
After breakfast, set off on the Commandaria Wine Route, the island’s most historic wine trail. This area has produced the world’s oldest named wine, Commandaria, for over 4,000 years. Visit vineyards in villages like Zoopigi, Monagri, and Agios Mamas, where winemakers continue to craft this amber-hued dessert wine using sun-dried grapes.

Afternoon:
Head to Koilani, another charming wine village, where cobbled streets lead you past fountains, chapels, and family-run wineries. Enjoy a relaxed tasting session, then lunch at a local taverna with mountain views.

Optional stop: Tsiakkas Winery in Pelendri—a boutique producer known for its innovative takes on indigenous grape varieties.

Evening:
Settle in for the night at a traditional stone inn or agro-tourism lodge. Enjoy a hearty dinner of oven-baked kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb), village halloumi, and seasonal vegetables. Pair it with Maratheftiko or Yiannoudi, Cyprus’s bold red wines that reflect the terroir of the mountains.

📅 Day 3: Troodos Nature & Kykkos Monastery

Morning:
Take a break from wine with a nature-focused morning. Head deeper into the Troodos Mountains and explore one of the scenic trails, such as the Artemis Trail (encircling Mount Olympus) or the Caledonia Waterfalls Trail—lush, shady, and refreshing even in summer.

Afternoon:
Drive to the island’s most famous monastery: Kykkos Monastery. Founded in the 11th century, it houses a priceless icon of the Virgin Mary, said to be painted by St. Luke. The gilded interiors, mosaics, and panoramic mountain views make this a highlight of any Troodos visit.

Tip: On your way back, stop in the village of Pedoulas, known for its cherry orchards and friendly cafes.

Evening:
Stay in Kakopetria, a lively mountain village with preserved architecture and plenty of tavernas. For dinner, try:

• Linos Inn Restaurant – A cozy spot serving grilled meats, trout, and hearty stews.
• Mylos Traditional Tavern – Beloved for local meze and warm Cypriot hospitality.

📅 Day 4: Artisanal Villages & Departure

Morning:
On your final day, explore one or two artisanal villages in the lower Troodos foothills. Options include:

• Fikardou – A UNESCO-protected village where time seems to stand still, with stone houses preserved from the 18th century.
• Lefkara – Famous worldwide for its handmade lace and silver filigree, once exported to Venice and beyond.

Stroll the narrow alleys, visit family-run workshops, and pick up unique souvenirs.

Afternoon:
Enjoy a farewell lunch at a village taverna—perhaps with a last glass of Commandaria or Zivania, the fiery Cypriot spirit. Savor mountain delicacies like wild mushroom dishes, afelia (wine-marinated pork), and trahana soup.

Evening:
Return to your coastal base or onward to the airport. On the way down, pause for one last look at the vineyards that have shaped Cypriot life for millennia.

🏨 Recommended Stays in the Troodos Region (4+ stars on TripAdvisor)

✅ At-a-Glance Itinerary Summary

✈️ Departure Tips:

• From Troodos to airports: Paphos and Larnaca airports are both 1–1.5 hours from most Troodos villages.
• Souvenirs to bring home: Commandaria wine, handmade lace, silver jewelry, local honey, or mountain herbs.
• Best season to visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for ideal hiking weather and harvest festivals.

✍️ Final Thoughts

“Troodos Wine & Mountain Villages” is more than a wine trail, it’s a journey into Cyprus’s soul. Among vineyard slopes, monastery courtyards, and village squares, you’ll taste the island’s history in every sip and every meal.

Whether raising a glass of Commandaria at sunset in Omodos or wandering cobbled lanes in Lefkara, this itinerary offers the perfect blend of indulgence, tradition, and natural beauty.