To most people, Cyprus is known for its sandy beaches, scorching hot summers, amazing historical sights, and cuisine.
But Troodos mountains are a gem worth exploring even in the height of the summer heat, the altitude actually allows for some respite from the balmy beaches below.
Where are the Troodos Mountains?
First, let's pinpoint where the mountains are situated in Cyprus.
The Troodos Mountains are situated in the central and western part of the island. They are the largest mountain range in Cyprus and offer beautiful landscapes, and hiking opportunities, and are known for their geological and historical significance.
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Under the cover of the musky yet refreshing smell of the pine forest trees at over 2000 meters high, you can find ample shade from the sun, away from the large crowds and relentless heat but if you do change your mind and feel like a dip in the ocean is what’s needed, well swap those trekking boots to sandals. The journey to the beach is within 2 hours of the mountain!
Troodos mountains offer something different. On an island as diverse and rich with culture as Cyprus, the mountains are usually the last thing people search for on TripAdvisor. Yet there are trails here that are truly spectacular.
One in particular that we visited was the Kalidonia Trail. The starting point of Psilo Dendro offers a variety of trails starting from 50-minute hikes, with the options of easy, moderate, or hard trails.
As we were pressed for time we chose a relatively short and easy hike and I must say I was impressed.
Kalidonia Trail
The trees provide the shade needed for you to enjoy the hike without having to worry about the sun too much. 5 minutes into the journey you will start to hear the stream which eventually leads to the waterfall.
Essentially you follow the stream up (depending on where you start) zig-zagging across small bridges, this is classed as an easy route but still offers plenty of Kodak moments.
After about 20 minutes or so you will arrive at the waterfall. A refreshing sight! The water vapour almost replenishes your skin, a small reward for your walk thus far.
Kalidonia Falls, a refreshing pit stop
Onwards and upwards the trail continues. After the obligatory waterfall snaps and perhaps even a cold shower and dip, you can explore what more the trail has to offer. For you botany enthusiasts there are a number of plant and tree species to gaze upon (and signposted), one in particular that caught my eye was the strawberry tree, not to be confused with the strawberry plant. The trail itself however isn’t signposted as such, so it's more of a follow the path and see where it leads. For us, it led to yet another waterfall, another 20-30 minutes or so, although the view was a little less inspiring as you were standing further away than the previous waterfall.
Nature trails with waterfalls in Troodos Mountain
Once you have reached this point you are nearing the top, there are some steps to go up which for the more 'novice' types may be a little challenging at first but it doesn't last long.
Once you have reached the end you have the choice to turn back and do the trail backwards or walk along the main road.
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What to wear when hiking in Troodos Mountain
As this walk is not overly difficult nor does it go into any major muddy paths, at least not in the summer, I used my normal Nike trainers. The other longer trails will likely need better or proper footwear.
A pair of shorts and a short-sleeved T-shirt were also perfect for this walk. Annoyingly, you will be bombarded with some flies on this walk but I wasn't bitten once, it was a nuisance at times more than anything.
My bag had a couple of bottles of water, a protein snack bar, some almonds and walnuts, some fruit (apple and banana), and a spare jumper. The weight was fine although it was more than enough food to carry. In the lighter trails, you can probably get away with bringing just some water and fruit.
If you are looking to hike or take the paths in the mountains in winter time then wrap up for the winter. Here's a recommended list of clothing and gear:
Layered Clothing:
Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking thermal base layer to keep sweat away from your skin.
Insulation Layer: Wear an insulating layer like a fleece or down jacket to trap heat.
Outer Layer: Use a waterproof and windproof jacket to protect against snow and rain.
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Insulated Pants: Opt for insulated or waterproof pants to keep your lower body warm and dry.
Waterproof Footwear: Choose waterproof and insulated hiking boots to keep your feet warm and dry. Thick socks are also essential.
Headgear:Wear a warm beanie or hat to retain heat and protect your ears, as well as a neck gaiter or scarf to cover your neck and face.
Gloves: Insulated and waterproof gloves are necessary to keep your hands warm and dry. Touchscreen compatibility is sought after too.
Sunglasses: Snow can be very reflective, so protect your eyes with sunglasses that block UV rays and reduce glare.
Extra Clothing: Pack extra clothing in case you get wet or need more layers. This includes spare socks, an extra base layer, and a change of gloves.
Food and Water: Stay well-hydrated and bring high-energy snacks to keep your energy up.
The Kalidonia Trails in Troodos Mountain, Cyprus
When does it snow in the Troodos Mountains?
In order to prepare for the winter months it is essential for your preparation to know when it starts to snow in the mountains in Cyprus.
Snowfall in the Troodos Mountains of Cyprus typically begins in late November or early December and continues through the winter months, often lasting until March or even April. The exact timing and amount of snow can vary from year to year, but the winter season is the most reliable time to experience snow in this region. If you plan to visit and want to see snow, it's best to check local weather forecasts for the most up-to-date information on snowfall in the Troodos Mountains.
Are the Troodos Mountains worth visiting?
Yes, they are. The mountains in Cyprus may not be the reason why someone visits Cyprus but it can definitely add to the experience.
The Troodos Mountains in Cyprus are certainly worth visiting for those who appreciate natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration. Here are some reasons why the Troodos Mountains are worth a visit:
Scenic Beauty: The Troodos Mountains offer stunning landscapes, including lush forests, picturesque villages, and breathtaking vistas. The region is known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Outdoor Activities: Whether you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, or skiing in the winter months, the Troodos Mountains provide a range of outdoor activities for all seasons. There are numerous well-maintained trails, including the famous Cedar Valley and Troodos Trails, making it an excellent destination for hikers.
Cultural Heritage: The Troodos region is rich in history and culture. You can explore ancient monasteries like Kykkos Monastery, which houses a significant collection of religious artifacts. Additionally, the charming mountain villages offer a glimpse into traditional Cypriot life.
Local Cuisine: The mountains are dotted with quaint tavernas and restaurants where you can savour traditional Cypriot dishes and locally produced wines. The food is a delightful part of the experience.
Relaxation: For those seeking a peaceful and serene escape, the Troodos Mountains offer a tranquil setting to unwind and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Photography: The picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and quaint villages make the Troodos Mountains a fantastic place for photographers to capture the beauty of the island.
However, the appeal of the Troodos Mountains may vary depending on your personal interests and the time of year you visit. If you enjoy the outdoors, history, and beautiful scenery, this mountain range in Cyprus is undoubtedly worth exploring.
Final Thoughts on Hiking the Troodos Mountains
There is much to be said regarding Cyprus, the sun the sea and (now) the mountains. For those looking for a little more than just the usual sun, sea and sand, Troodos mountains can give you an extra activity to look into that is rewarding and different. (Even skiing in winter!)
For those of you looking to fulfil the 'necessary' gym quota this can be an excellent substitute for the dreaded leg day. I would urge to look at the trails available as you are unlikely to be disappointed.
While I didn't venture all the way to the summit of the Troodos Mountains during my visit, the path I did traverse offered a unique perspective of this enchanting region. Along the journey, I couldn't help but assess the varying levels of difficulty and my overall impressions across several key aspects. From the hiking challenge to the allure of the surroundings, each facet contributed to a remarkable experience that I'm eager to share. So, let's delve into the intricacies of the Troodos Mountains, offering an insightful exploration of their difficulty level and their ultimate ratings in terms of hiking, scenic beauty, cultural significance, and more.
If you enjoyed the Kaladonia Trails, you'll love my waterfall hiking adventures in Verona, Italy. The Park of Waterfalls (Parco delle Cascate) offers a similar breathtaking experience. If this destination piques your interest, follow the link below to explore more about Verona's stunning trails and waterfalls!
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