Cyprus is home to not only some of the most exciting and historic cities bustling with life, but it also is ordained with some of the most beautiful hillside and coastal villages to explore. From the mountain villages of Troodos, to the quaint Kyrenia village of Karmi, you can explore some of the most breath taking panoramic views from these scenic villages.
Kalopanayiotis Village, Cyprus
Kalapnayiotis village is known for its sulphur springs, Venetian bridges, and the beautiful UNESCO Heritage Agios Ioannis Lampadistis Monastery. The impressive monastery holds well-preserved frescoes, icon paintings, & intricate wooden carved doors, located deep in the whimsical Marathassa Valley range. This is one of fourteen villages in the most mountainous region of Cyprus, the Marathasa area. Enjoy a walk through charming cobbled streets in a quaint village full of history & character & watch the sun kissed hills. It has great picnic sites & is a photographer's dream spot. Cyprus' chief spa town, Kalopanayiotis, is also known for its enigmatic healing waters. Besides sulphurous thermal baths and a spa, the visitor can also enjoy massages and swimming. This makes Kalopanayiotis a tranquil retreat to remember.
Fikardou Village, Cyprus
In the Pistisillia district, not far from Nicosia, this practically deserted village has preserved its mediaeval charm with traditional brick houses and red tiled roofs telling wonderful stories.
After being declared an Ancient Monument by the department of antiquities in 1978, the village won the Europa Nostra award in 1987. A lot of care was taken to preserve the woodwork and folk architecture of the 18th century houses in the village. Two of these houses, Katsinioros and Achilleas Dimitris, have museums owned by the Department of Antiquities that display rural items to this day.
Lofou Village, Cyprus
In the Limassol wine growing district, this picturesque village has a few permanent residents, but the old stone houses nestled on the cobbled streets have been beautifully restored. The old primary school found here is regarded as one of Cyprus's most beautiful schools. Buildings are dotted with cypress trees poking out into the blue horizon like a living, breathing painting ready to be explored.
Pano Lefkara Village, Cyprus
Traditionally known for its lace and silverware shops, this pretty village is now home to cafés, wine bars, and new shops and restaurants. Cypriot folk needlecraft art was born in Lefkara - the famous "lefkaritiko", whose reputation extends well beyond Cyprus and is known in most of Europe. A village named Lefkara owes its name to the surrounding white calcareous rocks that make the wonderful ochre buildings in the village, which are well-preserved. This village is rich in both history & culture. The famous master Leonardo da Vinci has also been said to have visited Lefkara.
Kato Drys Village, Cyprus
A neighbouring village to Lefkara, Kato Drys, offers hilly streets lined with flower pots, stone buildings, and an old school that looks like it was plucked straight from a film set. There is a wonderful church that peeks over the hills and wonderful traditional souvenirs can be bought here and there is a famous bee & embroidery museum, making this village sweet like honey.
Lania Village, Cyprus
Many foreign artists have settled in this picturesque Limassol district village renowned for its idyllic courtyards and glorious flowers, so we love the old black and white photographs dotted around. Grape harvests & the Grape festival have become the town's signature. As part of the festival, the women of the village open their gardens to visitors every May. In addition to the old shoemaker's shop, the gallery, the library, some taverns, cafés, and shops selling natural beauty products, visitors will want to stop by the old shoemaker's shop.
Bellapais Village, North Cyprus
Bellapais a stunning hillside village peeking out onto the glistening coastlines of the Kyrenia coastline. Bellapais is famous for the Bellapais Abbey, which dates back to the 18th century.
Undoubtedly, Bellapais village is best known for its magnificent abbey, although its nearby restaurants and cafés are equally delightful. The monument is used for classical music concerts and exhibitions today, and is the centre stage of the village. The famous British author Lawrence Durrell lived in North Cyprus in the beautiful and historic hillside village of Bellapais. Bellapais made its literary mark as a result of Lawrence Durrell's memoir Bitter Lemons of Cyprus, in which he describes the idyllic mixed-community life in the village. You can visit the author's house to this day, making it a memorable experience.
Karmi Village, North Cyprus
Located on the slope west of Kyrenia, this picturesque village offers some of the best views in the area. The unique characteristics of the village and the traditional constructions have been well-preserved. A village's charm has been preserved through use of wooden rafters and rush mat ceilings, restrictions on roof placement, and even spelled out names at the entrances of each house. Here, there are stunning views of the Five-Finger mountains and lush cypress trees. You can enjoy home-made desserts, visit the old Virgin Mary’s church or borrow a book from the local bookshop.
Pedoulas Village, Cyprus
Rather than being on an island in the Eastern Mediterranean, you might think you were in Central Europe in this magnificent village. The picturesque village of Pedoulas is located in the Nicosia district of Cyprus. In the Troodos Mountains, it takes on an alpine atmosphere.
The Church of Archangelos Michael is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Pedoulas, like many other towns and villages in Cyprus. Dating back from the 11th to the 19th century, you can find absolutely breath taking frescoes from the Byzantine and post-Byzantine eras. Overall it makes for a fascinating, well-worth visit.
Omodos Village, Cyprus
Another mountain village is the charming Omodos village, rich with wine shops, artisan shops and a wealth of history & culture. It truly is an enigmatic sight from a distance upon the high slopes. The best way to experience the village is by walking through its winding cobblestone streets. Even though it is a little busier than the other Cypriot villages, it is no less one of the most picturesque of villages.
In the village you will find beautiful handmade arts and crafts, including lacework and tablecloths, on the tables, along with fresh bread, sweets, and glassware. Among the island's oldest and most historic monasteries is the True Cross Monastery that you can visit. Several pieces of the True Cross are believed to be housed there. If you get peckish, head over to To Katoi Tavern for the mother of all mezes! It truly is worth a visit during your time in Cyprus.
Author: Sevilay Shakir
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