Paphos – Troodos mountains: To the highest peaks.

Travelers looking for a day filled with stunning scenery, rich culture, and a touch of adventure will find this tour from Paphos a fantastic choice. While I haven’t personally taken it, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary point to an experience packed with authentic sights and memorable moments.

What excites us most? The chance to explore Cyprus’s top mountain peaks with a knowledgeable guide, the opportunity to wander through charming villages like Omodos, and the chance to visit the legendary Kykkos Monastery. The small-group setup ensures a personalized vibe, and the fully-licensed 4×4 Land Rover Defender adds an adventurous spirit.

One consideration? The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchairs, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with off-road drives and walking. This experience appeals most to those wanting a genuine, nature-rich day that combines scenic beauty with cultural insights, all delivered with a friendly, local touch.

Good To Know

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized, engaging tour.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable and passionate, sharing stories and local insights.
• Varied Itinerary: Combines scenic drives, walks, historic sites, and charming villages.
• High-Altitude Adventures: Reaching peaks near 2,000 meters with breathtaking views.
• Authentic Cultural Stops: Including Kykkos Monastery and traditional villages.
• Great Value: All transportation and guide services included; food and drinks are at your own expense.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Setting Off in Style

The tour kicks off early, with pickup from any hotel or apartment in the southern Paphos District. Expect to see the iconic Land Rover Defender 110 arrive sharply on time, ready to tackle mountain roads in style. The small group size (up to 8 people) means you’ll get more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Scenic Drive Through the Foothills

Driving through the picturesque villages built with white limestone, you’ll quickly realize that this isn’t your average coach tour. The route meanders through the lush, rolling countryside of Paphos, with plenty of opportunities for photos along the way. Reviewers rave about the off-road segments, with one mentioning, “mountain tracks and village roads that would defeat most modern cars” but felt safe and excited in the rugged Defender.

Coffee Break in a Traditional Village

One of the highlights for many is a stop in a local village for a Cypriot coffee. It’s an authentic moment that offers a chance to chat with friendly villagers or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. This pause also breaks up the journey, giving you a taste of local life and some downtime before heading into higher altitudes.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Walking and Exploring in Nature

The tour isn’t just about vehicle rides. Expect scenic walks through serene forests—one reviewer mentioned a fabulous walk along a river to a 500-year-old Venetian bridge, noting, “We could have spent hours there.” The forested areas are a cool, refreshing escape from the coast’s heat and perfect for nature lovers. You’ll be at altitudes above 1,000 meters most of the time, surrounded by pine trees and mountain flora that thrive in Cyprus’s climate.

Visiting the Iconic Kykkos Monastery

A major highlight is the visit to Kykkos Monastery, renowned for its cultural significance and architectural beauty. One reviewer called it “a place of lasting influence,” and many appreciate the detailed stories shared by guides, giving deeper context to this historic site. Be prepared for a bit of walking around the monastery grounds and some free time to explore or purchase souvenirs.

Lunch in Pedoulas Village

At about 1,200 meters, Pedoulas is a charming mountain village that offers a perfect spot for lunch. You can choose to dine at a traditional restaurant with stunning views or explore the village. Reviewers mention the delicious food, with one highlighting the trout dish—“yummy,” and reasonably priced. It’s a good chance to relax and soak in the mountain atmosphere amidst local architecture and cozy streets.

The View from the Highest Point

After lunch, the tour continues with a scenic walk that takes you close to the highest points in Cyprus. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas that stretch across the island—perfect for memorable photos. The tour’s description emphasizes stunning views at every turn, and many reviewers remark on how breathtaking the mountain scenery is, especially when the weather cooperates.

Descending to Omodos Village

Descending from the peaks, the focus shifts to the charming Omodos, with its narrow, cobbled streets and stone houses. Reviewers love wandering through its alleys, discovering tiny shops and local cafes. One said, “We wandered through the narrow alleys and felt transported back in time,” making it a perfect end to the mountain journey.

Wrapping Up with Local Stories

Throughout the day, guides like Michalis or Michael keep the energy high with fun stories, local insights, and tips. Reviewers frequently mention their enthusiasm and knowledge as factors that elevate the experience from a simple sightseeing trip to a memorable cultural adventure.

Transportation and Timing: Why It Matters

The fully-licensed 4×4 Land Rover Defender offers a safe, comfortable ride over rough mountain terrain that regular vehicles can’t handle. The tour lasts roughly 9 hours, starting around 8:30-9:15 am, with pickup times varying depending on location. Most of the time is spent above 1,000 meters, making the air crisp and the scenery immersive. Wi-Fi on board helps you stay connected, and the small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd.

The Practical Side

Pricing is competitive when considering the included guide, transportation, and the personalized nature of the tour. Food and drinks aren’t included, but the lunch stop at Pedoulas offers good value for tasty local cuisine. Many reviews highlight how the trip feels well-paced, with enough stops for photos, walks, and rest without feeling rushed.

Authenticity and Value

The tour scores an impressive average of 5 out of 5 based on 149 reviews, with travelers remarking on guides’ local knowledge and their ability to craft an engaging, fun day. One reviewer mentions, “Michalis knew all the best places to take amazing photos,” and others appreciated the off-road adventures and the scenic stops that larger tours often skip.

In terms of value, for roughly a full day of exploring multiple sites, enjoying scenic walks, and having a knowledgeable guide, the cost is quite reasonable. The small group format maximizes personal attention and makes the experience feel more intimate.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This adventure suits active travelers who enjoy a bit of walking, storytelling, and stunning natural scenery. It’s ideal if you’re looking to go off the beaten track and see parts of Cyprus most travelers miss. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a personalized touch will find this tour rewarding.

However, those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or anyone uncomfortable with rugged terrain should consider other options, as some walking and off-road driving are involved.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup is offered from any hotel or apartment in the southern Paphos District.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended since you’ll be walking and exploring outdoor sites.

How long is the tour? The experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 8:30-9:15 am, depending on your location.

Does the trip include food? No, meals and drinks are not included, but there is a stop for lunch at a traditional restaurant with reasonably priced, delicious options.

Is it suitable for children? The tour is geared toward active adults and older children who can handle walking and off-road driving.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour.

What makes this tour unique? The small-group size, expert guides, and the combination of scenic drives, walks, and cultural stops make it stand out.

Is the vehicle comfortable? The fully-licensed Land Rover Defender is designed for off-road adventures, providing a safe and capable ride across mountain terrains.

Can I expect good photo opportunities? Absolutely. Guides are known for knowing the best spots for photos, from mountain viewpoints to charming villages.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a day of natural beauty, authentic villages, and cultural insights, this tour from Paphos to the Troodos peaks fits the bill. The combination of scenic drives, scenic walks, and fascinating stops offers genuine value for your money. The guides, especially Michalis and Michael, are praised for their deep local knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the experience even more memorable.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want to see the high-altitude landscapes of Cyprus without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s a fantastic way to escape the coast, breathe fresh mountain air, and gain a deeper understanding of the island’s diverse environment and history. Whether you’re seeking stunning views or a taste of local mountain life, this tour delivers—making it a highlight of many visitors’ trips to Cyprus.

You can check if your dates are available here: