Paphos: Local Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings

Exploring Cyprus Through Its Wineries: A Deep Dive into the Paphos Local Wineries Tour

Taking a wine tour in Paphos offers a chance to step away from the beaches and ancient ruins and into the heart of Cyprus’s centuries-old winemaking craft. This 4-hour experience takes you on a journey through two charming, family-run wineries in the Paphos district, giving you the chance to taste authentic local wines and learn about the island’s wine heritage. While it’s not a comprehensive tour—lunch isn’t included and some stops can be unpredictable—it provides a genuine taste of what makes Cypriot wine special.

What we especially love about this tour is its focus on small-scale, family-owned wineries where you get a real sense of passion and tradition. The guides are knowledgeable, and the scenic drives through rural villages create a peaceful backdrop for your tasting adventures. One possible drawback? The itinerary isn’t fixed, so if a winery is closed or the timing shifts, your experience might be less structured than you’d expect. Still, it’s ideal for those who enjoy authentic, laid-back wine tasting paired with cultural insights.

This tour suits wine lovers, curious travelers eager to understand local traditions, and anyone wanting to explore lesser-known parts of Paphos with a small, intimate group. If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and flavorful experience, this might be just the tour for you.

Key Points

Authentic family-run wineries provide a genuine taste of Cypriot winemaking.
Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
Expert-guided tours enhance your understanding of Cyprus’s wine traditions.
Tastings include a variety of local wines—reds, whites, and rosés—so you’ll leave with a good sense of regional flavors.
Scenic drives and charming villages add visual pleasure and local culture to the experience.
Opportunities to buy traditional products and wines directly from producers.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting with a Painless Pickup

The tour begins with a pickup from over 80 locations around Paphos, including major hotels and resorts—making it convenient whether you’re staying centrally or slightly off the beaten path. Expect to be picked up in a fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver, and don’t forget to arrive about 10 minutes early to avoid missing your ride.

First Stop: Sterna Winery in Kathikas

Your first destination is Sterna Winery, a family-run estate that’s been operating in the heart of Kathikas. Here, the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, perfect for wine novices and connoisseurs alike. You’ll tour the winery with a guide, learning about traditional winemaking methods unique to Cyprus. Sample a variety of wines—reds, whites, and rosés—and enjoy a chance to ask questions about the process.

A reviewer commented that “the first winery, Sterna, was amazing,” praising the warm welcome and the detailed explanation of wine types. However, note that at some wineries, the offering might be limited—“the tavern only offered 3 wines,” one guest noted, which could leave those seeking extensive tastings a bit craving more.

Scenic Drive to Amargeti

After the first tasting, there’s a short drive to the tranquil village of Amargeti, surrounded by rolling hills and greenery. This little village is as picturesque as it sounds, with historic churches and a folklore museum that provides a glimpse into traditional Cypriot life.

The Highlight: Mastros Winery & Local Delicacies

The real treat of the day is Mastros, a family-owned artisanal producer committed to tradition and craftsmanship. Here, your experience expands beyond wine—you’ll taste carob syrup, olive oil, and vinegar, all made with care and pride. The guided tour includes time for lunch and free exploration, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the serene rural setting.

A guest review emphasized the quality of the experience, stating “the guide was brilliant and shared so much information.” It’s an experience that feels more like a friendly visit than a commercial stop, making it worth the extra time.

Ending with a Final Taste and Return

After Mastros, there’s a short drive back to your starting point, with plenty of opportunity to reflect on the day’s flavors and scenery. The entire tour lasts about 4 hours—a good balance between sightseeing and tasting—though timing can shift, and some guests have noted being dropped off earlier than expected.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The personalized attention from guides and the focus on family-owned wineries set this experience apart. Unlike large, commercial wine tastings, you’ll enjoy a more authentic and relaxed atmosphere, often with the owners themselves sharing stories and insights. The scenic drives and rural villages make the journey as memorable as the tastings.

The Value of the Experience

While the cost might seem modest, the value lies in the quality of the tastings, the local knowledge, and the opportunity to purchase wines and products directly from producers. In particular, visiting Mastros with its variety of traditional products feels like a culture, not just a wine tasting.

What Could Be Improved?

Some reviews mention that not all wineries are open or available—one comment described how their second winery was shut, and the driver simply continued without explanation. The lack of a fixed itinerary means that your experience depends heavily on the day’s circumstances, which could be frustrating if you’re hoping for a structured schedule. Also, lunch isn’t included, so bringing snacks or planning to eat in the village might be wise.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a limited group size of 6 participants, you’ll receive more personalized attention, making your guide’s explanations more detailed and tailored to your interests. This small-group format is ideal if you prefer a more intimate experience, away from large crowds.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This wine-focused excursion offers a genuine taste of Cypriot tradition in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for wine lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy scenic drives and storytelling. The focus on family-run wineries means you’re supporting local producers, and the opportunity to buy traditional products adds that extra touch of authenticity.

While it’s not a comprehensive, all-day tour, the quality of tastings, the scenic environment, and the knowledgeable guides make it a worthwhile experience. Expect a laid-back atmosphere where you can indulge your curiosity and palate in equal measure.

If you’re looking for an authentic, small-group experience that combines local culture with excellent wine, this tour offers good value and memorable moments. Just remember to bring your curiosity—and perhaps a little extra room for wine purchases!

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, with timings depending on availability and traffic.

Are lunch and drinks included?
No, lunch is not included, but there’s enough time for a meal during the visit to Mastros. Tasting wines and purchasing products are part of the experience.

What wineries are visited?
The main stops are Sterna Winery in Kathikas and Mastros in Amargeti. The second winery can sometimes be closed, depending on the day.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in a fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle.

What is the group size?
It’s a small group, limited to 6 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Absolutely. You’ll have the chance to purchase wines and traditional products directly from the producers.

Is this experience suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women due to alcohol consumption.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended for comfort and safety.

This Paphos wine tour is a delightful way to uncover the island’s vinicultural traditions firsthand, offering a mix of scenic views, heartfelt stories, and, of course, fantastic local wines. For those eager to explore Cyprus beyond the beaches and ruins, it’s a perfectly balanced blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy.