THE TROODOS MOUNTAINS

One glance at the map of Cyprus shows the dominant position of the Troodos Mountains, set in the very heart of the island, reaching almost 2000 metres above sea level. Their peaks offer breathtaking panoramas, indeed on a clear day one can see from Mount Olympus, which is the highest peak, across the entire length and breadth of the whole island.

The most important resorts are Troodos itself, Prodromos, Platres, Pedoulas, Katopetria and Agros. All are easily accessible by the well sign-posted roads. The largest mountain resort of the whole range is Platres, with its mixture of modern and traditional hotels and its combination of sophistication and old fashioned charm.

Prodromos, the second highest village in Cyprus, claims the best apples and the freshest, purest atmosphere. Pedoulas which is only a stones throw away from the beautiful Marathasa Valley, boasts the islands main cherry production and abounds in small hospitable tavernas and hotels. On the northern slopes the charming villages of Kakopetria and Galata overlook thousands of apple trees in the Solea Valley which is a spectacular sight at blossoming time. One of the specialities of the area is the trout, served up in the excellent local tavernas. On the southern slopes one can find the picturesque wine producing villages such as Omodos with its beautiful village square next to the old monastery. Under Mulberry trees one can sit out on the stretched out plateia in front of the coffee shops. Worth a visit are the Holy Cross Monastery and its church which is now a museum. Also worth a visit is Lania which is famous for its many resident artists who all sell their excellent paintings at very reasonable prices.

Perhaps the churches and monasteries ar ethe most famous features of the region, wherher it is for the overwhelmingly beautiful setting or for the architecture or for the art treasures, icons and frescoes they contain. Kykko monastery, the largest and wealthiest on the island, foundied in the 12^th cenrury by Byzantine emperors, is found high up on the range offering views of unforgettable mountain scenery. It contacins a golden icon of the Virgin Mary said to have been painted by St Luke. Above the monastery in a glorious setting of tall pines is the Tomb of the late Archbishop Makarious.

Last by by no means least are the people of the region themselves, well known in Cyprus for their friendliness and hospitality. Welcoming and easily approachable in their village square or streets they are only too willing to furnish all sorts of information and hints about what to do or see over a cup of local coffee or a glass of village wine.

Traveling time from Paphos is around 2 hours.