Nothing could be more dramatically different from Mediterranean beach life than the impressive mountain range that stretches across the centre of Cyprus and reaches 1952 m. at Chionistra,  the highest point of Olympus.

Troodos is an area of outstanding beauty with a great variety of interesting birds and flora, waterfalls and special picnic sites. Above all, there are villages of immeasurable charm to wander around where people are friendly and hospitable.

Many are wine making villages and there are ample opportunities to sample the local produce. There are also a number of Byzantine monasteries and churches. Ten of them are included in the official Unesco list of World Cultural Heritage, the largest and the most famous being the Kykko Monastery.

Situated west of Marathasa valley, at the height of about 1150m. a.s.l., Kykko monastery is one of the most well known throughout the Orthodox world. The exact name of the monastery is Holy, Royal and Stavropegaic Monastery of Kykkos. The Monastery is of Byzantine origin and was founded by Isaias at the end of the 11th century. The fame of the monastery is mainly due to the icon of the Virgin Mary painted by Saint Luke. The icon of the Virgin Mary is said to have rain-bearing properties and in the past during periods of drought, the icon was placed on a wooden throne at Throni, the highest peak close to the monastery and prayers offered. The view from this point is boundless. The recently inaugurated Kykkos Museum is very imposing, contributing to the intellectual and cultural life of Cyprus and preserving works of art as old as 900 years.

Listed below are some of the museums and sites of interest. It is by no means complete but will perhaps whet your appetite.  Museum opening hours may sometimes vary but generally they are open all days of the week from 08:30 until 16:00 and are closed on public holidays.  Please remember that when visiting churches and monasteries you should be respectfully dressed so please ensure knees and shoulders are covered.