The Face of Troodos (Troodos). Kikkos
Description
Troodos (Troodos) is one of the most enchanting places in Cyprus. Ancient temples, charming Byzantine villages, family-run wineries, the best Cypriot tavernas, and unique nature reserves – you’ll find all of this right here!
Today we’re setting off on a trip into the mountains to visit one of the island’s most famous holy sites – the Holy Imperial Stavropegial Monastery of the Most Holy Mother of God of Kykkos.
Following the winding road, we’ll get to know the island in practically a single day and breathe in our fill of the purest mountain air!
Our first stop will be in the village of Lefkara, known throughout the world for its lace, the famous ‘Lefkaritika’. According to legend, Leonardo da Vinci himself, during his visit to Lefkara, was so impressed by the artistry of the local lace-makers that he purchased an altar cloth from them for Milan Cathedral and devised an original embroidery pattern, now known as the ‘Leonardo da Vinci pattern’.
Once in this fairytale village, we’ll be able to stroll through its narrow stone-paved streets, enjoy a fragrant Cypriot coffee in one of the cosy cafés, and pop into the many little shops selling traditional gold and silver jewellery.
Passing through numerous small villages and the outskirts of the island’s capital, Nicosia (the only city in the world divided into two parts), we’ll continue our journey towards the Troodos mountain range, climbing to its very summit – Mount Olympus. Standing here, at the island’s highest point, we’ll be overcome by a sense of complete freedom and boundless space!
Following our route, we’ll head to one of the largest and most popular monasteries in Cyprus – Kykkos.
The monastery’s chronicles contain accounts of miracles performed by the Mother of God in response to prayers offered before the Kykkos icon. One such miracle is the icon itself, which has survived four terrible fires that have occurred here over the monastery’s long history.
In 1995, the Museum of the Holy Kikkos Monastery was established on the monastery grounds, housing church furnishings, icons, liturgical vessels, vestments, embroideries and manuscripts.
Outside the monastery grounds are cells where, by arrangement with the monastery administration, travellers wishing to spend a few days in silence, tranquillity and prayer may stay overnight.
The monastery has its own winery, where the famous Commandaria wine and the ‘red’ zivania (a grape-based vodka liqueur) – renowned throughout Cyprus – are produced.
By choosing the ‘Kikkos Grand Tour’ as your excursion itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity not only to discover the history, culture and traditions of Cyprus, but also to visit one of Cyprus’s most important holy sites and truly savour the charm of the Cypriot villages!
The Troodos Mountains are beautiful at any time of year. In winter, you can admire the snow-capped peaks and mountain slopes and can’t help but marvel at the fact that, literally just an hour’s drive away, the sea is lapping at the shore, whilst visitors and locals alike are relaxing in coastal cafés in light T-shirts. During the summer months, you’ll enjoy the cool mountain air and get a welcome respite from the sweltering heat in the shade of ancient trees.
The tour can be organised as a group or private excursion. The tour lasts 8–9 hours. Throughout the tour, visitors are accompanied by a professional Russian-speaking guide, who is on hand to answer any questions that may arise.
Whichever option you choose – an independent trip or a group tour – don’t miss out on this opportunity, because without visiting Troodos, you’ll never know what the real Cyprus is like!
*Lunch is included in the price of the excursion.
* The excursion can be organised from all resorts.
Tour price:
- adults €55;
- child €27.50.
To book the tour, you can fill in the online booking form, email us at: or call us on: +357 25 310 692.
