100% Cyprus – Tour to Troodos mountains and villages (From Paphos)

If you’re considering a day trip out of Paphos that combines scenery, culture, and a bit of culinary fun, this tour to the Troodos Mountains and villages might be just what you’re after. We haven’t done it ourselves, but the detailed reviews and the itinerary paint a pretty appealing picture. What really catches the eye is the promise of spectacular mountain views and the chance to experience authentic village life — plus, wine tasting at a local winery.

Two standout features make this tour worth thinking about: first, it’s well-loved for its knowledgeable guides who seem to make the experience both informative and engaging. Second, the stunning scenery, from Aphrodite’s Rock to Millomeris Waterfalls, really looks like a visual treat. The possible downside? The tour lasts about 8 hours, so it’s a full day, and some reviews mention that the bus can get noisy, which might be a consideration if you’re sensitive to noise or traveling with small children.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy culture, scenic drives, and tasting local produce. It’s ideal if you’re interested in stepping away from tourist hotspots and exploring the quieter, more traditional side of Cyprus.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with a limited group size for a cozy feel.
• Inclusion of cheese tastings and wine offers good value for a cultural and culinary experience.
• Various stops—from ancient monasteries to waterfalls—provide a well-rounded taste of local life and nature.
• Timing and pace seem flexible enough to allow proper exploration without rushing.
• Guides appear to be a highlight, with many reviews praising their knowledge and personality.
• Cost-effectiveness considering the stops, tastings, and personalized experience.

A Thorough Look at the Experience

This tour kicks off early, with a pickup from your Paphos accommodations or nearby spots, typically around 8:00 am. The first stop is at the iconic Aphrodite’s Rock — a spot famous for the legend of the goddess’s birth. Here, you get a quick 15-minute photo op, which is enough to snap a few pictures and take in the view without feeling rushed. The site is free to visit, so if you’re into mythology or just love scenic coastlines, it’s a charming way to start the day.

Next, the journey takes you inland to Lofou, a tiny mountain village that’s perfect for a leisurely walk through narrow streets. Here, you can sample fresh halloumi cheese and sip coffee at a local craft shop. Reviewers mention that this stop lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time to browse local stores and absorb the rustic charm. One guest fondly recalls that it’s an opportunity to see the ancient sights and enjoy the ambiance of a typical Cypriot village.

From Lofou, the tour heads to Omodos, a well-preserved mountain hamlet located within the wine region of Afames. This stop is longer — roughly two hours — allowing for visits to traditional tavernas, local shops, and the **Timios Stavros Monastery. Many reviews highlight the monastery as a key stop, describing it as one of the island’s most important religious sites. Visitors often find the architecture and history intriguing and appreciate the quiet, authentic atmosphere. It’s a chance to learn about local traditions and religious history without feeling like you’re on a hurried tour.

The next point of interest is the Millomeris Waterfalls, often praised for being the highest and most beautiful waterfall in Cyprus. Just a short 30-minute visit, it offers a refreshing natural break and some great photo opportunities. The waterfall’s reputation for being picture-perfect is well-earned based on reviews, with many guests mentioning how nice it was to have a quick nature stop that provides a bit of tranquility amid the day’s busy schedule.

Then it’s on to Lambouri Winery for a wine tasting session. Here, you get to sample local wines directly from the vineyard, learning about the wine-making process and enjoying a true taste of Cyprus. Many reviewers describe this as a highlight, especially because it’s included in the price — a good value considering the quality of the wine and the relaxed setting. It’s also a chance to buy bottles directly from the source if you find something you like.

The day wraps up with a relaxed lunch break in Platres — a mountain resort town where you can grab a meal or simply relax before heading back. The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, so it’s a full day but well-paced to avoid feeling overly rushed.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews consistently highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides, especially mentioning guides like Lisa, Anna, and Liza. Guests appreciate the stories, local insights, and personal touches that make the stops meaningful. Several reviews mention how the stops allow plenty of time for photos, exploring, and soaking up the atmosphere, which seems to be a priority for the tour.

Many travelers have said the scenery is stunning, praising the views of the mountains, waterfalls, and quaint villages. One reviewer even called it a “spectacular” experience, noting how the tour offered a different perspective on Cyprus away from busier tourist areas.

The wine tasting at Lambouri Winery appears to be a highlight. Guests enjoyed sampling local varieties and learning about the wine production process, often describing it as a genuine, unpretentious experience.

Another positive point is the small group size — limited to 21 travelers — which makes the experience more intimate and allows guides to give more personalized attention. It seems to foster a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

However, not all reviews are glowing. A few mention issues like noisy buses or guides who seemed less knowledgeable. One guest pointed out that some of their experience was marred by a loud group on the bus, making it hard to hear the guide. Another reviewer felt the guide’s knowledge was shallow despite living in Cyprus for decades, and expressed concern about passenger comfort in seating arrangements.

Price-wise, at around $55, considering the inclusions — transport, tastings, and multiple stops — many guests agree it’s a solid value for a full day of sightseeing and culture.

The Practicalities

The tour is well-organized with pickup included, making it convenient for travelers who want to skip the hassle of arranging transport themselves. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a plus given Cyprus’s warm climate. The group size keeps things personable without feeling crowded, and the mobile ticket system makes it easy to book and keep track of your reservation.

The itinerary balances scenic spots with cultural and culinary experiences, giving you a well-rounded overview of the mountains and villages. Each stop has been carefully chosen to showcase different aspects of Cyprus’s landscape, history, and lifestyle.

The tour duration is about 8 hours, so be prepared for a full day. It’s worth wearing comfortable shoes, bringing water, and setting expectations that you’ll be on the move most of the time. Food isn’t included, but there are opportunities for lunch in Platres or nearby, which you might want to budget for.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys guided experiences with a mix of nature, history, and local culture, this tour should appeal. It’s particularly suited to those who want to explore beyond the main tourist zones without the hassle of planning every detail. The presence of wine and cheese tastings makes it ideal for food and drink enthusiasts, or anyone interested in tasting authentic Cypriot flavors.

Travelers who appreciate small groups and engaging guides will find this tour particularly satisfying. It’s a good choice if you want a balance of sightseeing and relaxing in scenic spots. However, if you’re sensitive to noise or prefer a very fast-paced or highly structured tour, this might not be your best fit.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rich experience of Cyprus’s Troodos Mountains and villages. The combination of stunning views, authentic local stops, and wine tasting provides a memorable snapshot of the island’s quieter, more traditional side. The knowledgeable guides, praised by many travelers, help bring the experience to life with stories and insights that make the day engaging and educational.

For those looking to spend a full day exploring Cyprus’s mountains, countryside, and local flavors without breaking the bank, this tour provides great value. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who appreciate a personal touch and want to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

While it’s not perfect — a few reviews mention noise and some guide knowledge gaps — the overall experience seems to deliver on its promise of a scenic, cultural adventure. If you’re after a meaningful day out from Paphos that combines natural beauty and local charm, this trip is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it involves a full day of sightseeing and walking around villages and waterfalls. It’s best for older children or teenagers who can sit comfortably for several hours and enjoy the scenery.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, cheese tastings at Lofou, and wine tasting at the Lambouri Winery. Lunch and additional drinks are not included, so you might want to budget extra.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at around 8:00 am with pickup and returning later in the day. Expect a full day of sightseeing with enough time at each stop.

Is the tour just sightseeing or does it include cultural experiences?
It combines both. You’ll visit historic sites like Timios Stavros Monastery, enjoy local cheese and wine tastings, and explore traditional villages, offering a good mix of culture, history, and nature.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned, and group sizes are limited to 21 travelers, making for a more relaxed ride.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not specifically designed for very young children. Consider their comfort with long bus rides and walking.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, a camera, and some money if you want to buy souvenirs or extra drinks. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended to protect against the sun.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are not refundable.

If you’re after a scenic day that showcases Cyprus’s rural charm, this tour seems like a solid choice, blending natural beauty, local culture, and good company.