Mt. Olympus (Chionistra)
Nicosia, 4800
With cool air and evergreen forests, the highest peak in Cyprus towers above the surrounding Troodos Mountains. In the summer months, hikers and cyclists flock to a network of trails wrapping the peak. When winter brings snow to the summit, the Cyprus Ski Club operates four lifts on Mt. Olympus to access the island’s only downhill skiing.
The basics
Visiting Mt. Olympus is all about getting outside, whether you’re hiking, cycling, or skiing. One popular route is the Artemis Trail, a 4.3-mile (7-kilometer) loop that departs from a small parking area on the Mt. Olympus access road. If you’re hoping to ski, choose between one chair lift and three T-bars that shuttle you to the top; the longest of these is 1,246 feet (380 meters). When the roads are snow-free, it’s also possible to simply drive to the top of Mt. Olympus.
Things to know before you go
- This is a great destination for plant lovers. On Mt. Olympus, find endemic species such as the rose rosa chionistrae.
- Mt. Olympus is generally the coldest place in Cyprus, so even on warm days, it’s a good idea to pack extra layers.
- Roads through the Troodos Mountains are narrow and winding. If you’re prone to motion sickness, plan to bring along your preferred remedy.
How to get there
The access road for Mt. Olympus is F935, which turns east from the F910, just north of the town of Troodos. If you’re traveling on your own, the visitor center in Troodos is a good place to stop, as there’s little information available at Mt. Olympus itself.
When to get there
Mt. Olympus is a year-round destination. In the hottest part of the summer, the cool mountain air offers a welcome break from the weather on the coast. Skiing on the mountain generally lasts from the beginning of January through the end of March. During these months, snowstorms can cause road closures in the Troodos Mountains, so it’s a good idea to check prior to departure.
Where to Go in the Troodos Mountains
This rolling landscape of the Troodos isn’t what most travelers picture when they imagine Cyprus, but the mountains include some of the island’s most fascinating destinations. Highlights include the Byzantine churches here, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site called ‘Painted Churches in the Troodos Region,’ with many located in small, remote villages. Another favorite is the Orthodox Kykkos Monastery (Panagia tou Kykkou); if you’re looking for another hike, pretty Caledonia Waterfalls is a popular option.
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