This is the second part and last part of our Cyprus travel itinerary. On day five of our Cypriot adventure we woke up to snow covered mountains! As the grit spreading gained momentum and the sun shone back and snow stated melting, we checked out from the hotel kicked start our day five of Cyprus holiday.
We started driving causiously from the Troodos mountain summit and started to decent to lower altitude through winding roads while snow on raods is still melting down. Soon afrter laeving the hotel, we stopped by the road at a panoramic view point of the Troodos mountain. With snow covered mountain top, the sereen was even more darmatic and somewhat totally unexpected during the end of month of April. We took a few sanp and comtionued to our first destination of the day - Trooditissa Monastery
Trooditissa Monastery
Trooditissa Monastery is located near the village of Platres on the southern slopes of the Troodos Mountains. It is one of the oldest monasteries on the island and is renowned for its possession of a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary which is believed to have miraculous powers, particularly in granting fertility to childless couples. The icon is said to have been brought to Cyprus from Asia Minor during the period of iconoclasm in the Byzantine Empire (8th -9th centuries).
Trooditissa Monastery is believed to have been founded in the 13th century, during the Byzantine period, though some traditions suggest it may date back to as early as the 8th or 9th century. According to legend, it was established by a hermit who had fled the iconoclastic persecutions of the 8th century and sought refuge in the Troodos Mountains. The original monastery was built on the site of a cave where the hermit had lived. Over the centuries, the monastery has been rebuilt and expanded several times, particularly after suffering damage during periods of unrest and natural disasters.
The architecture of Trooditissa Monastery reflects a blend of Byzantine and traditional Cypriot styles, characterized by stone walls, red-tiled roofs, and wooden balconies. The main church of the monastery is built in the traditional Byzantine basilica style with a dome. The interior of the church is richly decorated with frescoes and icons, some of which date back several centuries. The iconostasis, a wooden screen separating the nave from the sanctuary, is intricately carved and adorned with icons of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints. This wooden piece of artifact is considered as one of the most important religious artifacts in Cyprus and is a major focus of devotion and veneration. The monastery complex includes the main church, monastic cells, a refectory, a library, and guest accommodations. The buildings are arranged around a central courtyard, which is a common feature of monastic architecture in Cyprus.
Trooditissa Monastery is an active monastery, home to a small community of monks who live according to the monastic rule of the Orthodox Christian tradition. The monks dedicate their lives to prayer, contemplation, and service, maintaining the spiritual and physical upkeep of the monastery.
Church of the Archangel Michael
As the day progresses, we headed to our next destination of the day - the Church of Archangel Michael. The church is located in Pedoulas village in the Troodos Mountains. It was built in the 15th century during the Venetian period, as evidenced by an inscription on the south entrance, which also indicates that the church was commissioned by a priest named Vassilios Chamados. The church is a small, single-aisle building with a steep-pitched timber roof covered with flat tiles, a typical architectural style in the Troodos region designed to withstand heavy snow.
The Church of the Archangel Michael is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site titled ‘Painted Churches in the Troodos Region’, which includes several other churches and monasteries known for their exceptional frescoes and Byzantine architecture.
The Church of Archangel Michael is s dedicated to Archangel Michael, who is portrayed in his typical role as the defender of the faith
The interior of the church is decorated with frescoes that cover the walls and the ceiling, depicting various scenes from the Old and New Testaments, including the Last Judgment, Resurrection, and Miracles of Christ, as well as numerous saints and archangels. The church’s central icon is dedicated to Archangel Michael, who is portrayed in his typical role as the defender of the faith, often seen in military attire.
Monastery of Saint John Lampadistes
The Monastery of Saint John Lampadistes is located in the village of Kalopanagiotis, in the Troodos Mountains. The Monastery of Saint John Lampadistes is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site titled ‘Painted Churches in the Troodos Region’, which includes several other churches and monasteries known for their exceptional frescoes and Byzantine architecture.
The monastery is believed to have been founded in the 11th century, originally as a small hermitage dedicated to Saint Herakleidios, the first bishop of Cyprus and a revered local saint. - It was later expanded and dedicated to Saint John Lampadistes, a local saint who lived in the 11th century. The monastery complex was expanded over the centuries, particularly during the 12th to 15th centuries, a period marked by the flourishing of monastic life and Byzantine art in Cyprus.
The Monastery of Saint John Lampadistes is a complex of three interconnected churches, each built during different periods, reflecting the evolving architectural styles and religious practices of the time. These churches are:
The Church of Saint Herakleidios: This is the oldest part of the complex, dating back to the 11th century. It is a small, barrel-vaulted church with thick stone walls and a simple, interior.
The Church of Saint John Lampadistes: Built in the 12th century, this church is the central part of the complex. It has a more elaborate design with a wooden roof and an extensive narthex (entrance hall) added in the 15th century.
The Latin Chapel: This chapel was also added in the 15th century and is distinguished by its Gothic architectural elements, with pointed arches and ribbed vaulting, which contrast with the Byzantine style of the other two churches.
Taking photos inside the churches at Monastery of Saint John Lampadistes is strictly prohibited. The Church of Saint John Lampadistes has some of the most beautiful Byzentic style paintying on the walls and ceiling of the church.
Kykkos Monastery
Located on the northwestern part of the Troodos Mountains and surrounded by forests at an altitude of around 1,318 meters, the Kykkos Monastery, is famous for holding an icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to have been painted by the Apostle Luke. Legend has it that the icon of the Virgin Mary was brought to Cyprus from Constantinople by the monk Isaiah.
The monastery founded in the 11th century by Byzantine Emperor Alexios and officially known as the Holy Monastery of the Virgin of Kykkos. It is said to have been destroyed by fire several times over the centuries and restored several times. The monastery complex includes beautiful mosaics, frescoes, and ornate decorations. The monastery quickly became a prominent religious centre in Cyprus during the Byzantine period and served as a refuge for monks and a place of pilgrimage and continued to thrive and grow through the Venetian rule (15th to 16th century) barring some occasional attacks by raiders. However, under the Ottoman rule (16th to 19th century), it faced heavy taxation and restrictions imposed on religious practices but continued as an important place for the Greek Orthodox community in Cyprus. In the 19th century, the monastery became a hub of Greek Cypriot nationalism and supported the Enosis movement, which sought the union of Cyprus with Greece as well as provided shelter to EOKA fighters (National Organization of Cypriot Fighters) who fought against British rule during the Cypriot War of Independence. It has been restored and maintained over the years, preserving its historic architecture and spiritual heritage.
The monastery is built in the traditional Byzantine architectural style, featuring a large central church with a dome and a cross-in-square layout, monastic cells, a refectory, and other facilities enclosed within a stone wall.
The interior of the church is adorned with beautiful frescoes, icons, and an ornate iconostasis (icon screen). The miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, known as the ‘Machairiotissa’ is enshrined in the church and is the focal point of veneration for pilgrims. Taking picture inside the church is strictly prohibited. The picture in our blog is taken from Kykkos Monastery official website.
Today, it is home to a community of monks who continue the monastic traditions and offer hospitality to pilgrims and visitors. It is one of the most visited monasteries in Cyprus today. The monastery also houses a library with a valuable collection of religious texts, manuscripts, and books and has a small museum displaying religious artifacts, vestments, and other items of historical and cultural significance. Visitors are not allowed to take picture in the museum.
Paphos Archaeological Park
Paphos was the capital of Cyprus during the Hellenistic and Roman periods, and the archaeological park is testament to the city glorious past as a cultural and administrative centre. Paphos Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains ruins and artifacts dating from prehistoric times through to the Middle Ages. There are main attractions in the archaeological park to cover.
The Roman Villas and Mosaics:
Paphos Archaeological Park is particularly famous for its well-preserved intricate mosaics of Roman villas. Some of the main points of interest are:
The House of Dionysus: This villa is one of the largest and most impressive structures in the park, dating from the 2nd century AD. It features beautifully preserved mosaics, many of which depict scenes from Greek mythology, including the god Dionysus. These mosaics are renowned for their artistry and complexity.
The House of Theseus: This villa is believed to have been the residence of a Roman proconsul, and dates to the 4th century AD. The most famous mosaic here is known as Mosaic of Theseus and the Minotaur which shows Theseus slaying the Minotaur in the labyrinth.
House of Aion: This villa has some exquisite mosaics, depicting the god Aion, the personification of eternity, as well as other mythological figures.
House of Orpheus: This villa features mosaics depicting Orpheus, Hercules, and the Amazon women, emphasizing both mythical and heroic themes.
Theatre of Paphos:
The Paphos Theatre was originally a Hellenistic structure Dating back to the 3rd century BC and has undergone several modifications during the Roman period. It could seat around 8,500 spectators and was used for public performances.
The Odeon:
Dating back to the 2nd century AD, this modest Roman theatre, constructed from limestone blocks, was used for musical performances, poetry recitals, and other cultural events.
The Odeon and Agora at The Agora at Paphos Archaeological Park
The Agora:
The Agora was a large, open square was surrounded by porticos and public buildings, was the commercial and administrative heart of Roman Paphos.
Saranda Kolones or Forty Columns Fortress:
This Byzantine-era fortress was built to defend the city from Arab raids. It was named after the 40 granite columns that once supported its structure, but the fortress was largely destroyed by an earthquake in the 13th century and today the ruins offer a glimpse into the island’s past.
Day 6 – Exploring Roman and Greek archaeological sites
On day six morning after breakfast, we started driving toward east following the motorway and then the scenic costal road on the direction to Limassol. Our destinations are some of the most important and significant Greek and Roman archaeological ruins of Cyprus on is western and south cost.
The Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates
Located just outside Kourion, the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates was a religious site dedicated to Apollo as the god of woodlands (Hylates) and is one of the important Roma archaeological sites in Cyprus. The sanctuary dates from the 8th century BC to the 4th century AD. The complex includes a temple, a palaestra (wrestling ground), a bathhouse, and other religious buildings.
Hellenic Stadium of Kourion
Located between the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates and Ancient Kourion next to the costal road lies the Hellenic Stadium of Kourion, the only of its kind in the island of Cyprus. Built during the rule of Antonius II in 2nd century A.D., the stadium had capacity of around six thousand spectators. The stadium was most likely used for Hellenic pentathlon which includes sports like running, long and high jump, javelin throw and wrestling. Evidence also suggests the arena was used for chariot and horse racing. The stadium was destroyed in the 4th century A.D.
The site is easily assessable from the costal road with clearly marked signed boards. There is a car park next to the stadium and there is no entry fee to the site. As the ancient stadium is not one of the top-rated attractions of Cyprus, expect the site to be empty during most of the time of the day.
Kourion Archaeological Site (Ancient Kourion)
Founded in the 12th century BC the Kourion is one of Cyprus's oldest city-kingdom. It was built on a hilltop overlooking the fertile valley of the river Kouris. It was initially inhabited by Mycenaean Greeks and 1continued to thrive during the Hellenistic and Roman periods and through Byzantine period until its gradual decline. Kourion was heavily damaged by a series of earthquakes in the 4th century AD. Some of the key highlights of the site are:
The Greco-Roman theatre
The main showstopper at the site- Kourion Theatre was built in the 2nd century BC and later expanded by the Romans. It could seat around 3,500 people and was used for performances, including plays and gladiatorial contests. It has been carefully restored and is still used today for open-air concerts and performances, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea from its seats.
The House of Eustolios
This villa belonged to a wealthy resident, Eustolios, who converted part of his home into public baths after earthquakes in the early 4th century AD. It contains beautiful mosaic floors, including one that features an inscription thanking Christ for protecting the city. The House of Eustolios provides valuable insight into daily life in Cyprus during the transition from the Roman Empire to the Byzantine period. It also demonstrates how the Christian faith began to influence art and architecture during this era.
The Agora:
The Agora (marketplace) was the heart of ancient Kourion's public life during the Roman period. It was surrounded by columns and public buildings, including a basilica and a nymphaeum (a monument dedicated to water nymphs). The Agora served as a hub for trade, politics, and social gatherings in the city.
The Early Christian Basilica:
Dating from the 5th century AD, this large Byzantine Basilica reflects Kourion's transition from paganism to Christianity. Once a grand church with impressive columns and floor mosaics, today only its foundations and some columns remain for us to witness.
The Nymphaeum:
This monumental fountain located in the heart of the city was dedicated to the water nymphs, who were believed to protect natural springs. It is a good example of Roman engineering and beliefs!
The Gladiator House and House of Achilles:
These large Roman villas are notable for their mosaic floors. The Gladiator House features mosaics depicting gladiators in combat, while the House of Achilles has a famous mosaic showing Achilles revealing his true identity to Odysseus.
The Necropolis:
Ancient Kourion also had an extensive necropolis (burial site), where archaeologists have uncovered ancient tombs and burial chambers with artifacts, including pottery, jewellery, and statues.
After spending good couple of hours in Ancient Kourion, we drove to the city of Limassol for lunch at a meze restaurant. We had an enjoyable and relaxing lunch with lots of food included in the platter. You can read more about our food adventure of Cyprus here. Following lunch, we headed towards next destination - Archaeological Site of Amathous.
Archaeological Site of Amathous
Located on the southern coast, just east of Limassol, Amathous archaeological site is ancient city-kingdom of Amathous in Cyprus, believed to have been established by settlers from the Aegean or Levantine regions. Due to its strategic coastal location, it had thriving trade networks and was one of the last strongholds of Cypriot kings who resisted Alexander the Great. The city-kingdom is also known for its worship the goddess Aphrodite, whose cult was central to the city’s identity. The Temple of Aphrodite, now in ruins, once stood on the highest fortified part – the acropolis-overlooking the city.
Amathous came under Persian, Hellenistic, and Roman control, each of which left its mark on the city’s architecture and urban layout. Amathous saw its decline around the 7th century AD due to Arab raids and changing geopolitical conditions. In the Archaeological Site, you can see the remains of the city - its layout and structure. The city’s Agora or marketplace was surrounded by colonnades, public buildings, and shops, showcasing a blend of Greek and Roman architectural styles. The Acropolis of Amathous (upper fortified part of the city) was situated on a hill, providing views of the surrounding area and the Mediterranean Sea. It was the site of the temple of Aphrodite and other important religious structures.
Amathous also had extensive necropolis (burial sites), containing ancient tombs - the most notable being the richly decorated stone Amathous Sarcophagus, which is now housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris.
A large Christian Basilica was also constructed during the Byzantine period. Today its remains include its floor mosaics which demonstrate the blend of Roman and Christian influences in the later stages of the city’s history.
It was late afternoon, and after finish visiting Amathous archaeological site we drive back to Paphos to you last destination of the day - Edro III Shipwreck, Akrotiri Peninsula.
Edro III Shipwreck, Akrotiri Peninsula
The Edro III Shipwreck found off the coast of Paphos near the village of Peyia has become quite a landmark of sorts! It is a piece of history frozen in time showing man’s endeavours being slave to nature’s wishes!
The Edro III is a cargo ship registered in the West African country of Sierra Leone. It was built in 1966, measuring around 80 meters in length and weighing about 2,500 tons. The ship was sailing from Limassol, Cyprus, to Rhodes, Greece, in December 2011 when it encountered rough seas and harsh weather conditions. The strong winds and mechanical failure caused the ship to run aground on the rocky coastline near the Sea Caves of Peyia, Paphos. All the 9 crew members were safely rescued through a joint effort by Cypriot authorities and the British military stationed at a nearby base.
Edro III Shipwreck near Paphos is a great stop to watch sunser over Mediterranean
Due to its location and environmental concerns, the wreck of Edro III has remained ‘stranded’ ever since after- the fuel and hazardous materials were removed from the vessel. It is just fascinating to watch the wreck against the backdrop of the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean and the sublime colours of the sky in the evening.
There is a car park around 100 meters away from the coastline where the shipwreck is located. Also near the car park on the cost next to the shipwreck there is a nice restaurant with lots of outdoor seating. A perfect place to call it a day and relax with a glass of wine and see the sun setting over the Mediterranean sea.
Day 7 - West Costal Cyprus (West of Paphos)
We started our day 8 at one of the most significant and important archaeological sites of Cyprus, an UNESCO world heritage site – Archaeological Site of the Tombs of the Kings.
Archaeological Site of the Tombs of the Kings:
Located near Paphos Archaeological Park, this necropolis or ancient burial site dates from the 4th century BC. Archaeological evidence suggests the tombs were built during Hellenistic and Ptolemaic periods. The tombs are described as ‘royal’ due to monumental character and not because of final resting place of kings. The tombs were built for high-ranking officials and aristocrats, but not really kings. The tombs are cut into solid rock and feature impressive columns and courtyards, resembling houses for the dead. The architectural design of these underground tombs imitates or copy the architectural design of house from same periods. A practice that was also followed in Alexandia. Archaeological Site of the Tombs of the Kings is considered as the most important archaeological sites of Cyprus and was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list during 1980s.
There are total of eight tombs discovered and excavated in the Archaeological Site of the Tombs of the Kings. The tombs were looted several times by tomb looter during ancient times. Hence when these tombs were excavated no wealth were discovered excepts a few coins, gold jewels and Hellenistic pots used to store foods.
Out of all tombs the most significant and important tombs are tomb number 3, 4, 5 and 8. All tombs are accessible by staircase going down to the central atrium of the tombs. In all tombs burial chambers can be visible on the walls of burial rooms.
Tomb 3 is one of the most popular tomb in the site, which was built of Dorian style, the most ancient Greek style of architecture. The central atrium is surrounded by Dorian style portico. The columns of the portico are Dorian style and baseless. The presence of columns in this tomb gives visitors a feeling of a temple more than a tomb.
Tomb 4 is the first tomb that was excavated. The tomb is built of Dorian style same as tomb 3. The tomb is access through a curved dromos with steps. The atrium of the tomb is surrounded by Dorian style portico. The pillars of the portico are mixed of square and round shape. The western site of the tomb the portico is supported by square pillars. Tomb 4 is significant from archaeological point of view as gold jewelleries and coins were discovered here. The eastern side of the tomb houses the burial chambers. The western site of the tomb also has a large burial chamber.
Tomb 5 is the largest tomb in the archaeological site and covers an area of 390 square meters. The tomb is made of Dorian style as well. The stepped dromos leads to a curved arch through which the artium of the tomb can be access. All four sites of the atrium are surrounded with portico which is supported by large square pillars. Though portico of one site collapsed completely.
Tomb 8 most is likely the most significant and important tomb in the archaeological site which has completely different design from the rest of the tombs. Unlike other tombs, in the middle of the tomb the atrium is replaced by a large rectangular stone structure surrounded by four corridors or wings. Burial niches are carved out on this rectangular rock and also on the walls on the other sides of the corridors. A stepped dromos leads to the tomb through a large arched entrance. During excavation two limestone statues of bird, most probably eagles were found. Archaeological evidence suggested that these eagles represent the royal emblem of Ptolemies. This gives rise to the theory that tomb 8 was a burial site of a Ptolemy king who died in Cyprus. Archaeological and historical evidence suggested that this burial tomb was probably the resting place of the Ptolemy the brother of Cleopatra VI and the eagles represents the Egyptian god Horus – the god of healing, protection, sun and sky, with a human body and a head of a falcon.
Adonis Baths Waterfalls
According to legend, the goddess Aphrodite, whose 10m tall statue adorns the place, used to bathe in this beautiful natural pool. The pool gets fed by waterfalls coming from the mountain. Tradition says goddess Aphrodite was smitten by Adonis, a handsome but mortal hunter. According to Greek mythology Adonis and Aphrodite had many children here, the people of Paphos are their descendants. From the heat outside, the waterfalls and the cold water of the pool are like a hidden oasis surrounded by lush greenery.
Hidden oasis of Adonis Bath
It is located in northwest of Kili Village in Paphos. It is wise to follow the signs from Tala village or Coral Bay, to reach the waterfalls, instead of relying on google maps or GPS. We followed google map and the road through which google map took us was bumpy winding hilly road. Though we saw few cars followed this path beside us.
The waterfalls of Adonis Bath and the statue of Aphrodite
Anyway, coming to modern day, there are change rooms next to the pool where you can get changed and walk to the relaxing bath. There are also lockers available to keep your stuff before getting into the water. After a nice dip, you will definitely work up a good appetite for a hearty lunch!
There is also an old amphitheatre next to the car park near the entrance. If you are up for it, there are quadbikes available for rent as well.
After dipping in the fresh water of Adonis bath, cooled and refreshed we drove to the village of Kathikas for lunch. In the sunny afternoon of April, we enjoyed Cypriot food under the fig tree of Yannis restaurant.
After a relaxing lunch we drove to our next destination - Avakas Gorge Nature Trail.
Avakas Gorge Nature Trail
Located in the Akamas Peninsula, about 20 kilometers northwest of Paphos, the Avakas Gorge is quite a stunning natural site to visit. The gorge was formed over thousands of years by the river cutting through the limestone rock, creating steep cliffs that rise as high as 30 meters high in some places.
The gorge offers a 3 kilometer hiking trail, which is moderately challenging. The trail follows the riverbed and leads through the gorge, offering incredible views of the towering rock formations. The terrain is uneven and rocky and wet with the river flowing through narrow passages, so good waterproof footwear is a sensible choice!
The narrow walking path in the gorge lined with tress and bush
If you keep an eye out you may spot lots of birds and reptiles and goats on the steep cliffs. The towering rocks and sunlight create some drama and a beautiful interplay of light and shadow with sounds of water in the background to add to the theatrical quality of this place. Due to ongoing road works, and blocked pathways, our hike to the gorge was longer than planned but quite worth it with some well-deserved ice-cream break on the way back.
By the time we returned to the car part finishing out hiking, it was almost evening as sun was near the horizon. We drove back to our hotel just before the sunset and called it a day.
Day 8 - Costal Cyprus, visiting old village and returning to Larnaca to fly back home
It was our last day in the island of Cyprus. We checked out after having a relaxing breakfast by the poolside of our hotel, put our suitcases in the boot of our car and head to the first destination of the day - Holy Monastery of Saint Neophytos
Holy Monastery of Saint Neophytos
Located about 9km north of Pafos (Paphos), the holy monastery of Agios Neophytos was founded by the reclusive Saint and writer Neophytos in the second half of the 12th century. It is a beautiful somewhat secluded location at the top of a picturesque valley about two kilometres from Tala village.
Neophytos created this reclusive retreat out of the mountains called the ‘Enkleistra’, which is covered with some of the finest examples of Byzantine frescoes that date back from the 12th to the 15th centuries. Unfortunately, the day we went to the holy monastery of Agios Neophytos, the old part of the monastery was closed where Byzantine frescoes are located.
As it was ester Sunday in the island of Cyprus we managed to catch the morning service at the monastery which was an unique experience.
Finish visiting holy monastery of Agios Neophytos, we drove to the cost east of Paphos to visit one of the popular tourist attractions by the sea beach - Aphrodite’s Rock
Aphrodite's Rock
Aphrodite’s Rock, also known as Petra tou Romiou, is an iconic landmark located along the coast road between Paphos and Limassol. It is a large, striking rock formation jutting out from the sea, associated with the mythological birthplace of Aphrodite - the Greek goddess of love and beauty. Legend has it that Aphrodite was born from the sea foam at this spot. As she emerged from the waters, she was carried on a seashell to the nearby shore, symbolizing her divine beauty and connection to the sea.
The picturesque coastline has a pebble beach with clear waters. It is said that swimming around the Aphrodite's Rock three times will bring good fortune, and love.
Adjacent the beach exists another big rock - Megali Petra tou Romiou. This rock can be climbed and the top of the rock presents a beautiful view of the Aphrodite's rock and the Mediterranean beyond.
It was near mid-day and we decided to visit the village of Lofou located in the foothill of Troodos mountains. It was good hour and half drive through winding village roads that took us to the village of Lofou.
Village of Lofou:
Located in the district of Limassol, village of Lofou is located on top a hill called ‘lofos’ from which the place derived its name and retained it since Byzantine time. The village is renowned for its winding cobbled streets, old architecture, picturesque landscape and vineyards. The village is famous for its grape harvest celebration which happens during the month of September.
The village has a church dedicated to Virgin Mary and an agricultural museum. The village also houses few luxury villas for tourist interested in enjoying a laidback and relaxing village vibe. There are several scenic walking trails around the villages and vineyards for visitors to explore.
When we arrived at Lofou it was just around the lunch time and the main taverna of the village was buzzing to local people enjoying traditional Cypriot meze on Easter Sunday. We found a table for ourselves and enjoyed the big traditional meze which was made up of a huge number of traditional Cypriot dishes. We enjoyed a slow relaxing lunch while socking the festive village atmosphere.
After lunch we stroll around the village aimlessly for an hour. We visited the church, the museum was closed. We stopped at every village street to take picture while adoring the beauty of the place.
Local wine testing in the village of Lofou
Tired of walking we arrived at one of the few wine bars in the village which sells their local wines. We sat down, relax and sample couple of types of wines, bought a bottle to take home. Finishing our wine we decided to walk around in the village one more time before returning to Larnaca International airport to catch out return flight to London. The drive from the village of Lofou to Larnaca was a long one, near couple of hours. Arriving at airport we returned our rental car and flew back home saying goodbye to the lovely, charming, picturesque pretty island of Cyprus.
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