Transport
I have visited the Kykkos Monastery , and quite a lot of time is required to see all the artifacts. We spent so much time driving around hills and mountains ( about 65% of the time ) that once the time for lunch was taken out , there was very little time to look around the monestry , let alone its museum . Our first stop for refreshments was a shock , you have to pay , and the stop is short. Due to the amount of driving some people were becoming travel sick. Too much emphasis on the hills
The journey into the Troodos Mountains is a journey to another Cyprus. Rustic stone villages dot tree-clad valleys where traditional ways of life still hold sway. This tour takes you into the spiritual heart of the highlands, the Kykkos Monastery, as well as up to Throni Hill. Alexia, one of our local guides, says, ‘The icon of the Virgin Mary at Kykkos is considered miraculous, so at least once a year, it's important for Cypriots to visit the church.'
As you go into the depths of the Troodos, you'll encounter luxuriant landscapes which contrast with the arid coast. You'll head to the Kykkos Monastery first. Perched on Mount Kykkos, it's laden with religious treasures, and you won't be able to keep your eyes off the golden icons and frescoes – except for the icon of the Virgin Mary. It's kept under wraps, with the last known viewing being hundreds of years ago. You'll also have free time to wander around the grounds and enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains. What's more, your visit helps the preservation of this important heritage site.
We'll then visit the hilltop tomb of Archbishop Makarios III. Superb views greet you before the drive down to the village of Pedoulas. Here, you'll enjoy a typical Cypriot lunch made from locally sourced ingredients in a family-run restaurant. There's time for an optional walk up to the richly decorated Orthodox church of the Holy Cross, then we'll head back with a coffee stop at Pano Platres en route.
