Troodos, Kykkos Monastery, Omodos and Winery from Limassol

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Cyprus beyond its sun-kissed beaches, a well-organized day trip through the Troodos Mountains, Kykkos Monastery, and nearby villages offers a rich taste of the island’s history, natural beauty, and local flavors. This private tour from Limassol promises a blend of scenic landscapes, cultural insights, and wine tasting—perfect for those who appreciate a mix of authentic experiences and convenience.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? We’re drawn to the breathtaking mountain vistas, the chance to explore a monastery said to house a relic painted by St. Luke, and the opportunity to sample some of Cyprus’s best wines. The small group setting ensures a more personal experience, and the inclusion of a visit to the birthplace of Aphrodite adds a mythic touch to the journey.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the drive through the mountains, which might be a bit bumpy or winding for those prone to motion sickness. This tour suits travelers who love scenic views, culture, and tasting local wines—especially if you’re after a flexible, private experience that takes you off the beaten path.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with up to six people for a more intimate day.
• Cultural Riches: Visit to Kykkos Monastery, home to a relic believed to be painted by St. Luke.
• Scenic Vistas: Stunning views of Cyprus from Mount Throni and the coast at Petra tou Romiou.
• Local Flavors: Wine tasting of Commandaria, Zivania, and other Cypriot wines at Lambouri Winery.
• Authentic Charm: Walk through cobbled streets in Omodos and discover local village life.
• Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pick-up and drop-off included, with plenty of time allocated for lunch and rest.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Omodos Village: A Picture-Perfect Start

The journey begins in Omodos, a picturesque village at the base of the mountains. Travelers often mention its charm, with narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses that seem straight out of a postcard. The highlight here is the Timios Stavros Monastery, famous for housing a relic of the Holy Cross and a sacred rope.

Reviewers like Pamelliott51 appreciated the idyllic setting, noting, “the villages and monasteries were lovely,” even if the start was a bit chaotic with the driver struggling to find a couple. Still, the village’s quaint atmosphere and the monastery’s spiritual significance make it a worthwhile stop. Expect about 40 minutes here—just enough to soak in the village charm and snap photos.

Kykkos Monastery: A Cultural and Artistic Treasure

Next, the tour heads to the Kykkos Monastery, often called the jewel of Cyprus. Founded in the 11th century, this monastery isn’t just a religious site—it’s a symbol of Cypriot resilience and wealth. Its most famous artifact is the Virgin Mary icon, believed to have been painted by St. Luke himself, making it a magnet for pilgrims.

Travelers on the tour have described the monastery as a must-see, with one reviewer stating, “Even Kykkos Monastery is enough reason to book this trip.” Visitors admire the detailed frescoes, the ancient architecture, and the tranquil atmosphere. You’ll have around 40 minutes here—ample time to admire the icon, explore the grounds, and appreciate the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Mount Throni: The Tomb of Archbishop Makarios

A short drive uphill takes you to Mount Throni, where the tomb of Archbishop Makarios III, Cyprus’s first president, is located. Sitting at an elevation of 1,318 meters, the site offers sweeping vistas of the island and a poignant reminder of Cyprus’s recent history.

Reviewers note that this spot is more than just a grave—it’s a symbol of the country’s religious and political heritage. The tomb’s location on such a prominent mountain makes it a meaningful stop, especially for history buffs or those interested in Cyprus’s path to independence. Expect about 40 minutes here to pay respects, enjoy the scenery, and get some great photos.

Troodos Mountains: Lunch and Rest

After the cultural stops, you’ll take a break in the Troodos Mountains for lunch and relaxation. The area offers several cafes and eateries where you can enjoy traditional Cypriot dishes.

The moderate pace of the tour means you’ll have about 70 minutes to rest, chat with your group, and enjoy the mountain air. Many travelers appreciate this downtime to take in the fresh scent of pine trees and the peaceful surroundings—it’s a stark contrast to busy city life.

Lambouri Winery: Sipping Cyprus

No visit to Cyprus would be complete without sampling its wines, and the Lambouri Winery offers a chance to taste local varieties like Commandaria and Zivania. The tasting session is described as free, giving you a chance to appreciate the distinct flavors of Cypriot wines with expert guidance.

Reviewers mention the excellent selection of wines, with one noting the chance to enjoy tasting multiple local varieties in a relaxed setting. The 30-minute stop is short but sweet, perfect for aficionados or even casual wine lovers curious about Cypriot vintages.

Petra tou Romiou: Myth and Magic

On the way back to Limassol, the tour makes a scenic stop at Petra tou Romiou, famously known as the Birthplace of Aphrodite. This stunning coastal landmark is famed for its mythological significance—Aphrodite is said to have emerged from the sea foam here.

Expect around 25 minutes to admire the rugged coastline, take photos, and perhaps dip your toes into the water. Reviewers often find it to be a highlight of the trip, with the natural beauty providing a perfect end to the day.

Transportation and Group Size: Making It Comfortable

This tour is operated in a fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the scenic mountain drive. The private aspect means you’re not stuck with strangers, which enhances the experience—perfect for couples, small families, or friends traveling together. The pickup and drop-off at your hotel simplify logistics, so you can relax from the moment you leave Limassol.

The timing is structured to give you a relaxed pace, with most stops around 40 minutes, plus time for lunch and rest, totaling approximately 8 hours. The early start at 8:30 am means you’ll beat some of the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures in the mountains.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $422.89 per group (up to six people), this private tour offers good value if you’re seeking a personalized, culturally rich experience. When you factor in the included wine tasting, hotel pickup, and the tailored attention, it delivers a lot for the price.

While not the cheapest option available, the convenience of a private guide and the depth of cultural and scenic experiences make it worthwhile for those who want a curated day without the hassle of self-driving or group tours.

Authentic Feedback from Past Travelers

One traveler highlighted the stunning views and excellent wine tasting, saying, “You’ll love the views from Mount Throni and the delicious Cyprus wines at Lambouri Winery.” They also appreciated the flexibility of a private tour, which allows for more meaningful stops and less rushing.

Conversely, some mentioned minor hiccups like the initial confusion with pick-up or the winding mountain roads, but these didn’t detract much from the overall enjoyment. The review noting the “lovely villages and monasteries” confirms the scenic and cultural richness of the trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and travelers who want a scenic escape from Limassol. It’s perfect if you’re after a more intimate, flexible day that combines tradition, nature, and mythology. Those who dislike mountain driving might want to prepare accordingly, but overall, this tour balances cultural insights with natural beauty beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This private trip through the Troodos Mountains and its attractions offers a genuine taste of Cyprus’s spiritual, scenic, and vinous traditions. With highlights like Kykkos Monastery, Mount Throni, and the mythic Petra tou Romiou, it’s a well-rounded day that balances cultural discovery with stunning vistas and relaxing wine tastings.

The small-group setting helps keep the experience personal and relaxed, making it perfect for couples, small families, or friends looking for a memorable day without the crowds. While the mountain drive may be a consideration for some, the wealth of sights and flavors make this tour a worthwhile investment.

For those eager to explore Cyprus beyond its beaches, this itinerary delivers a meaningful, visually beautiful, and tasty adventure—highlighting the island’s spiritual heritage, sweeping landscapes, and celebrated wines.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
Approximately 8 hours, including all stops, with most activities lasting around 40 minutes each.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at your Limassol hotel for added convenience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for cobbled streets and monastery visits. Be sure to cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches and monasteries.

Can I taste local wines?
Absolutely. The winery stop includes free tastings of Commandaria, Zivania, and other Cypriot wines.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, up to six people.

Is there a lunch break?
Yes, about 70 minutes are allocated for lunch and rest in the Troodos area, where you can choose from local eateries.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mountain roads if children are prone to motion sickness.

Are the stops educational?
Yes. You’ll learn about Cyprus’s history, religious traditions, and mythology, especially at Kykkos Monastery and Petra tou Romiou.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change.

Is it worth the cost?
For those interested in a personalized, scenic, and cultural experience with wine tasting included, it offers notable value.