PAPHOS: Troodos Mountains “Monasteries & Villages” by coach

This full-day coach tour offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into Cyprus’s spiritual sites, charming mountain villages, and stunning natural landscapes. It’s a journey that combines culture, religion, and breathtaking views—perfect for those wanting an authentic taste of the island’s heart.

What we love most is how smoothly the day runs, with well-planned stops that allow you to truly soak in each location without feeling rushed. The inclusion of renowned monasteries like Kykkos and Chrysorrogiatissa, along with a visit to the picturesque village of Omodos, makes this tour ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone curious about local Cypriot traditions.

One thing to keep in mind is that the guided tours at certain stops can be somewhat brief—reviewers note that the commentary might be limited to just a few sentences. So if you’re craving in-depth historical storytelling, you might want to prepare some questions or do a bit of extra research beforehand.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives, meaningful cultural visits, and a relaxed day exploring the mountains away from the busy coast. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a balanced mix of spiritual sites and picturesque villages, all wrapped into an accessible, value-packed package.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation makes the long scenic drives enjoyable.
• Authentic visits to well-known monasteries and the charming village of Omodos.
• Limited guided commentary at some stops, so some prior knowledge or research might enhance the experience.
• Stunning mountain scenery with panoramic views and fresh mountain air.
• Ideal for those interested in culture, religion, and nature—not a party or shopping-focused tour.
• Timing is well-organized with enough free time at each stop to explore independently.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This 8-hour excursion, operated by Gorgo Travel, is designed to take you deep into Cyprus’s mountainous interior, a part of the island often overlooked by visitors who stick to the coast. The journey begins early with pickup from a selection of 10 hotels around Paphos, including popular spots like the Alexander The Great Beach Hotel and Venus Beach Hotel. The pick-up logistics are straightforward, and the buses are comfortable enough to keep you relaxed during the about 1.5-hour drive into the Troodos range.

The Drive into the Mountains

The first part of the day is spent traveling through Pafos Forest, which sets the tone with lush greenery and a cool climate. This scenic drive is a highlight in itself, offering views that beckon you to snap photos, especially for those who love landscape photography. The relatively early start means you’ll get a full day of exploration without feeling rushed, though it’s worth noting that the entire trip is carefully scheduled to maximize each stop.

Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery

Your first major stop is Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery, perched on a hillside with sweeping views over the surrounding forest. This monastery, renowned for its sacred icons and monastic wine, is steeped in tranquility. Here, you can join a guided tour that lasts about an hour and a half, which includes a walk around the grounds, a look at the iconography, and some free time for photos.

One reviewer, de Carvalho, said, “Everything was perfect,” emphasizing the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful setting. However, a less impressed traveler noted that the guided commentary was quite brief—just a few sentences—so don’t expect an in-depth historical narrative unless you do some prior reading.

Kykkos Monastery and Throni Hill

Next, the bus winds further into the mountains to Kykkos Monastery, the largest and most famous monastery in Cyprus. This site is a true highlight, especially because of its stunning religious art—golden icons, detailed frescoes, and intricate woodwork that evoke awe. The visit lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you enough time to explore, take photos, and soak up the atmosphere.

A significant part of the trip is a stop at the Tomb of Archbishop Makarios III, located on Throni Hill. This peaceful site offers sweeping vistas across the mountains and forests, providing a tangible connection to Cyprus’s recent history and its first President.

Scenic Drive Through Troodos

Following the monastery visits, your journey continues with a scenic drive through the Troodos mountain range. The route is filled with viewpoints, where you can stop briefly to enjoy panoramic vistas and breathe in the crisp mountain air.

This stretch of the tour is important for giving a sense of the island’s diverse geography and natural beauty, and many travelers find these moments restorative and photogenic.

Omodos Village: The Charming End Point

The tour’s final stop is Omodos, a picture-perfect village famous for local vineyards, artisanal crafts, and its historic Timios Stavros Monastery. You’ll have about 45 minutes here to wander cobbled streets, browse shops packed with local wines, lace, and honey, and perhaps grab a quick snack or a glass of wine.

Several reviews praise Omodos for its authentic atmosphere and lovely architecture. One traveler marveled at the vibrant artisanal culture and the chance to see traditional craftsmanship firsthand.

Returning Journey

The entire experience concludes with a about 1.5-hour drive back to Paphos, giving you time to relax, review photos, or chat about the day’s highlights. The drop-offs are well-organized across 10 hotels, making it convenient for most travelers.

The Practicalities for Travelers

The tour is priced to offer good value, especially considering the included visits, guided tours, and comfortable transportation. However, it’s important to remember that meals and entrance fees are not included, so budgeting for a snack or additional visits is recommended. The tour is suitable for most people who are comfortable walking and standing for periods, but it isn’t designed for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

The guide, while knowledgeable, may provide limited commentary at some stops—reviewers note that the bus commentary and church visits could be brief. To enhance your experience, consider doing a little pre-reading about the sites or preparing questions for your guide.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking around monasteries and villages
• Hat and sunscreen for protection against the sun
• Camera for capturing the scenic views and architecture
• Water to stay hydrated during the day

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, culturally enriching day out that highlights Cyprus’s spiritual heritage, mountain scenery, and traditional villages. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate historic sites like Kykkos Monastery and enjoy scenic drives with impressive vistas.

If you prefer a more in-depth guided storytelling experience, this might feel a little brief at times. However, the opportunity to visit iconic monasteries and enjoy the mountain air offsets this limitation. It’s also a good choice for those who want a comfortable way to explore far from the coast, combining natural beauty and cultural sights effortlessly.

Overall, it offers a balanced, authentic taste of Cyprus’s interior—worth considering if you want a memorable day away from the beach crowds, with a focus on tradition and landscape.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is included from a selection of 10 hotels in Paphos. Be ready 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.

How long is the drive into the mountains?
The initial drive from Paphos to Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery takes about 1.5 hours.

What are the main sites visited?
You’ll visit Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery, Kykkos Monastery, the Tomb of Archbishop Makarios III, and the village of Omodos.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something during your stops.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to sites like Kykkos Monastery are not included, so be prepared for additional costs if you wish to enter certain areas.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as some walking and stairs may be involved.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts around 8 hours, including travel, site visits, and free time.

Will I have free time at the stops?
Yes, each stop has dedicated free time—about 1.5 hours at Kykkos, 1.5 hours driving through Troodos, and 45 minutes in Omodos.

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

This Paphos to Troodos Mountains tour offers a beautiful mix of spirituality, history, and mountain scenery, suited for those eager to explore Cyprus beyond its beaches. With its well-organized itinerary and authentic stops, it provides a meaningful and scenic glimpse into the island’s interior.