Paphos: Local Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings

If you’re a wine lover visiting Cyprus, this Paphos-based wineries tour offers a chance to explore local vineyards and taste authentic Cypriot wines. While it’s not a large-scale winery bus tour — with only a small group of up to six people — it promises a more intimate experience, guided by knowledgeable hosts who love sharing their craft.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines visits to charming family-owned wineries with insights into the island’s long winemaking tradition. You’ll get to see how wine is made on this small Mediterranean island and taste a variety of local wines that really reflect Cyprus’s unique terroir. Plus, the option to buy local products like olive oils and vinegars at Mastros Winery adds a fun, authentic shopping twist.

One thing to keep in mind is that the actual experience can vary a bit. Some travelers have noted that the schedule isn’t perfectly seamless — wineries might be closed when you visit, and the day can feel more driven by logistical needs than guided storytelling. Still, the overall value for those wanting a relaxed, cultural taste of Cyprus is solid.

This tour suits anyone curious about Cypriot wine, looking for a smaller, more personal experience, or eager to combine scenic views with a cultural outing. If you’re okay with a flexible schedule and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, it could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers more personalized attention.
• Visit two family-run wineries, each with its own character.
• Learn about Cyprus’s centuries-old winemaking traditions.
• Taste a variety of local wines and explore the production process.
• Opportunity for buying local products like wine and artisan foods.
• The tour includes scenic village stops and cultural insights.
• Be aware that winery visits might be affected by closures or scheduling changes.
• The tour lasts about 4 hours, with pick-up and drop-off included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Wineries Tour in Paphos

If you’re thinking about booking, it’s worth knowing what to expect and what might not go perfectly. From the reviews, most travelers find this tour a good way to experience Cyprus’s wine scene in a relaxed setting. Yet, as with many small-group experiences, unpredictability can crop up — wineries might be closed, or the schedule can shift.

We’ll walk through what the itinerary really involves, so you can decide if this fits your style.

The Pick-Up and Early Moments

The tour begins with hotel pick-up from a wide list of locations around Paphos. This flexibility can be convenient, but it’s important to arrive a bit early at your designated spot. The driver will collect you in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is cozy for the roughly 10-minute drive to the first stop.

The group is limited to six people, which keeps things intimate, and the guide is there to share insights rather than just drive you around. However, some reviews have pointed out that the experience can sometimes feel more like a driver taking you to wineries than an actively guided tour. For example, one reviewer noted: “No time given for lunch, no village stop. Was definitely a driver rather than a guide.” So, temper expectations if you’re hoping for a narrative-rich experience.

First Stop: Sterna Winery & Wine Museum

Your first visit is to Sterna Winery, located in Kathikas village — a family-run estate that many find charming. Here, you’ll get a guided tour of the winery and the chance to sample red, white, and rosé wines. One reviewer called this stop “amazing,” highlighting the quality of the wines and the friendly atmosphere.

What makes this stop particularly engaging is how it offers a glimpse into local winemaking, which has been a part of Cypriot culture for centuries. The guide shares stories about the grape varieties and traditions, which adds depth to the tasting. It’s a relaxed environment, perfect for wine newcomers or enthusiasts alike.

But be aware that not all wineries are equally generous with tastings. One critique pointed out that “the tavern only offered 3 wines and it was hardly a tasting,” which highlights how some stops can be more modest than others.

Travel to Amargeti Village and Cultural Highlights

Next, the route takes you to Amargeti — a tranquil village surrounded by rolling hills, with scenic views on the way. This is more than just a drive; it’s a chance to soak in Cyprus’s countryside. You get about 50 minutes here to explore the area, which includes a visit to Mastros Winery.

Mastros stands out because it’s family-owned and concentrates on tradition. Here, you can taste wines alongside other local products like carob syrup, olive oil, and vinegar. It’s a great way to see how Cypriot artisans combine craftsmanship with their produce. One reviewer found this part “more than a tasting; it’s a story of pride and heritage.”

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The Lunch and Workshop

The highlight of the stop at Mastros is the opportunity to enjoy a traditional lunch, often included or available for purchase. There’s free time for shopping and even workshops — though details vary, and it’s worth checking if these are available during your visit.

One feedback point from travelers is that the timing is tight, and not everyone gets the full experience. The tour is about 1.5 hours at Mastros, which is enough to taste wines, buy souvenirs, and learn a bit about the production process.

Final Stops and Return

After Mastros, the drive back to Paphos takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to reflect on the day or chat with fellow travelers. Drop-offs are at multiple locations, making it convenient regardless of where you’re staying.

Is It Worth the Price?

At a glance, this tour offers a lot: visits to two wineries, tastings, cultural insights, and transportation. The small group size means you’re not lost in a crowd, and guides are often knowledgeable about the local wine scene.

However, based on reviews, the experience’s value depends on your expectations. If you’re after a well-structured, guided tour with detailed stories and seamless scheduling, this might fall short at times. But if your goal is to taste real Cypriot wines, see the countryside, and shop for local goodies in a friendly setting, it provides a genuine taste of the island’s wine culture.

What’s the main takeaway? Expect a relaxed, personable experience that offers good value for wine enthusiasts who don’t mind some unpredictability. It’s ideal for those looking to combine scenic views with wine tasting in a intimate setting.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is well-suited for guests who want to avoid large bus crowds and prefer small-group settings. If you love wine and are interested in local traditions, you’ll find this tour engaging. It’s also perfect if you enjoy a peaceful, countryside vibe — the stops at scenic villages make for a relaxing day.

Travelers with flexible schedules and open-minded attitudes will enjoy this more, especially as some wineries might be closed or the timing varies. If you’re a serious connoisseur looking for an in-depth guide into every detail of winemaking, you might find it somewhat limited. But for a laid-back, authentic experience, it hits the right notes.

Important considerations:

• Not suitable for children under 18.
• Not suitable for pregnant women.
• Not wheelchair accessible.
• Expect some variability; it’s more about the experience than perfection.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It’s about 4 hours, including pickups, travel, tastings, and some cultural stops.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included but is available at Mastros Winery, and you can buy local products there.

Are there any additional costs?
You’re covered for tastings and transportation. Extra expenses include lunch, souvenirs, and any private purchases.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, you’ll have an experienced guide, but some reviews suggest the guiding might be more about driving than storytelling.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended.

Can I buy wine and local products?
Yes, there’s the opportunity to purchase traditional wines, olive oils, and other local delicacies at Mastros Winery.

What if wineries are closed?
Scheduling can vary; some stops might be affected, but the tour aims to visit at least two wineries in a relaxed manner.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for children under 18 and pregnant women, so it’s best suited for adult wine enthusiasts.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a personalized, relaxed way to discover Cyprus’s wine culture, this small-group Paphos wineries tour is a solid choice. You’ll enjoy visiting two family-run wineries, tasting authentic wines, and getting a taste of local life in charming villages. While there can be some variability — wineries might be closed or the schedule might shift — most travelers appreciate the intimate setting and the chance to learn from passionate hosts.

This experience is especially suitable for those who enjoy wine, cultural insights, and scenic countryside without the crowds. Keep in mind, it’s not a guide-heavy or luxury experience, but it offers genuine connections and a chance to taste the heart of Cypriot winemaking.

If your trip to Cyprus involves a love for good wine and relaxed countryside scenery, this tour might just be the highlight of your wine-themed adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: