From Ayia Napa: Fikardou, Machairas & Lefkara Guided Tour

Exploring Cyprus’s Hidden Gems: Fikardou, Machairas & Lefkara Guided Tour

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and really experience the heart of Cyprus, this guided tour from Ayia Napa offers a wonderful way to do just that. It takes you through scenic highland villages, a sacred monastery, and a town famed for its lace-making, all in one full-day trip. We’ve seen a few options like this, and what stands out here is the sense of authentic tradition and the chance to enjoy some truly local flavors.

What we like most about this tour is how it balances history, culture, and cuisine, giving you a well-rounded taste of Cyprus beyond the beaches. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making the journey informative and engaging. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional lunch with local ingredients means you get to sit down and enjoy Cyprus’s flavors after your exploration.

One thing to keep in mind is the pace—you’ll visit several places in one day, so if you prefer a more relaxed, in-depth experience at each stop, this might feel a little rushed. Also, note that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, which is something to consider if you’re traveling with mobility challenges.

This experience suits travelers who want a snapshot of rural Cyprus, appreciate good stories from guides, and enjoy trying local food in a friendly, laid-back setting. It’s ideal for those who’d rather see real villages and historic sites than spend all day in a museum or on a bus. If that sounds like your kind of day, read on for everything you need to know.

Key Points

• Authentic villages: Visit well-preserved Fikardou, a UNESCO-tentative site, showing traditional architecture and rural charm.
• Cultural immersion: Explore the 12th-century Machairas Monastery, home to revered religious icons.
• Local craftsmanship: Walk through Lefkara, famous for its handmade lace and embroidery, still made by locals today.
• Gourmet experience: Enjoy a traditional Cypriot lunch in a family-run restaurant, with the option of local wine.
• Expert guide: Guides have deep knowledge, making history and customs come alive.
• Hands-on activities: Try bread-making yourself in Skarinou, adding a fun, interactive touch to the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Off: Convenient Pickup & Transportation
The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, with timing depending on your location. While the exact pickup time is confirmed later, the ride is comfortably in a minibus, allowing you to relax and prepare for your day of discovery. The group size tends to be manageable, making it easier to engage with the guide and ask questions.

Fikardou Village: Stepping Back in Time
The first stop is Fikardou, a highland hamlet frozen in time and so well-preserved it’s on the tentative UNESCO list. Here, cobbled lanes wind through historic houses, giving you a real sense of rural mountain life in the 19th century. Stavroula, one of the guides, describes it as “an excellent example of rural mountain life, where architecture and environment blend seamlessly.” We loved the way this village maintains its authenticity, with many old stone houses and traditional details intact.

In reviews, visitors mention how beautiful and peaceful Fikardou is. One traveler praised, “Everything went on time, organized. Beautiful places, good driver, excellent guide with clear and easy English.” It’s easy to walk around, take photos, and soak in the scenery, with enough free time to explore or just sit and enjoy the tranquility.

Machairas Monastery: A Sacred Stop
Next, you’ll head to the 12th-century Machairas Monastery, perched on a hillside. It’s a tranquil spot with a deep spiritual ambiance. Inside, you’ll find a lavishly decorated interior housing a revered icon of the Virgin Mar. The monastery is not just a religious site but also a symbol of Cypriot heritage. Be sure to dress modestly—no shoulders or knees showing—out of respect for the religious buildings.

The reviews highlight this stop as a meaningful moment, with guides explaining the significance of the icon and the monastery’s history. It’s a place where many visitors feel a sense of connection to Cyprus’s spiritual side.

Lefkara: The Lace-Making Haven
From religious sites to artisans’ workshops, you’ll then stroll through Lefkara, famed worldwide for its handmade lace and embroidery. Stavroula mentions that “women, young and old, can be seen outside their homes and shops making lace,” a tradition that has persisted for centuries. You might even see local women at work outside their shops, sewing intricate patterns.

This village is charming, with narrow alleys and picturesque homes. It’s easy to imagine how the craftsmanship of Lefkara’s lace has traveled across Europe—Leonardo da Vinci himself bought some. The reviews back this up, with visitors appreciating the opportunity to see artisans at work and buy authentic souvenirs.

Skarinou Village and Hands-On Bread Making
The day culminates in Skarinou, where you get to roll up your sleeves and try traditional bread-making. It’s a simple but fun activity, often described as a highlight by travelers. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a home-cooked, locally sourced lunch at a family-run restaurant—think fresh bread, olives, salads, and perhaps some local wine or water.

Reviewers note that the food is diverse and tasty, with some calling it a “KM0” experience, emphasizing local ingredients. The relaxed dining setting provides a nice break after the morning’s sightseeing.

Practical Details & Value

Duration & Timing:
The full-day trip lasts about 8 hours. Starting times are flexible, but you’ll need to confirm your pickup details. This makes it suitable for a day trip rather than a half-day or half-hearted sightseeing effort.

Cost & Inclusions:
At a reasonable price point, your fee covers transportation, a knowledgeable guide, entrance fees, and a traditional lunch with a glass of wine or water. While drinks outside the included meal are extra, the value is quite good considering the number of sites and activities packed into one day.

Group Size & Comfort:
The minibus is a comfortable way to travel between distant villages, and the group size usually keeps things intimate and manageable. The guide’s English is clear and easy to understand, making the experience accessible for most travelers.

Accessibility & Limitations:
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to the cobbled streets and uneven terrain in villages like Fikardou. Also, dress code is important—no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts—especially when visiting religious sites.

Authenticity & Real Travel Experience

What sets this tour apart is its focus on local life and traditions. Visitors laud the guides’ knowledge, which adds depth to the experience. The storytelling makes history feel alive, and the chance to see artisans at work brings you closer to genuine Cypriot culture.

The inclusion of hands-on bread-making and a traditional lunch means you’re not just a passive observer but an active participant. Many reviews mention how delicious the food is—an important aspect when considering the value of a tour that combines sightseeing with culinary delights.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re someone who loves exploring small villages, learning about local crafts, and wants an authentic taste of Cyprus—this trip is well worth considering. It’s a great choice for travelers who value guided insights, culture, and good food, all in a compact package.

However, if you prefer a slow pace or want to spend more time at each stop, you might find it a little rushed, given the number of sites packed into one day. Also, if mobility is an issue, this may not be suitable due to uneven paths and terrain.

In essence, this tour offers a balanced glimpse into rural Cyprus, combining history, tradition, and cuisine into a meaningful day out. It’s best suited for curious travelers eager to see beyond the beaches and enjoy a more personal, local experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch. Starting times vary, so check your booking details.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel is included, but the exact time depends on your location. You’ll receive confirmation and details closer to your trip.

What should I wear?
Dress modestly—no shoulders or knees showing—especially when visiting the monastery. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking cobbled streets.

Are drinks included?
Your lunch includes a glass of wine or water, but extra drinks are not included and will need to be purchased separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically tailored for children, families with older kids who enjoy cultural sights and walking should find it engaging. Keep in mind the physical aspects of walking in villages.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the guide available in other languages?
This tour is offered in English, with guides having a good command of the language, ensuring clear and engaging explanations.

In the end, if you’re after a slice of authentic Cyprus—its villages, crafts, and spiritual sites—this tour offers a thoughtful, well-organized way to see some of the island’s most charming spots. It’s a day that combines culture, history, and delicious food, ideal for curious travelers who want to experience more than just the beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here: