Last Updated on March 4, 2021 by Tia
Kalopanayiotis, Pedoulas, and Moutoullas – yes we are finally exploring the countryside in Nicosia Province, and it is just as quaint, vast, and pretty as I had imagined!
So keep reading as I take you through a winter mini-break in two small and mighty villages in the mountains of Nicosia, and show you Cyprus Agrotourism, with a luxurious twist!
Table of Contents
WATCH THE VIDEO EPISODE OF THIS ARTICLE NOW!
Kalopanayiotis – Cyprus Excursions
Upon first glance, you will soon realize that this is no ordinary village! Here, you will not find a traditional village square – on the contrary, Kalopanayiotis is a multilayered village, filled with streets begging to be explored
Things to do in Kalopanayiotis
I have fallen in love with this traditional, yet modernized village and the reason is evident – in the traditional architecture, panoramic views, the picturesque alleys, and incredible nature. There are bars and restaurants, churches and chapels cozy townhouses and hotels, relaxing spa sessions and even nature safari!
Nature safari – at Safari Kalopanayiotis
Best experience in Kalopanayiotis ever! I had an absolute blast, on this safari adventure – filled with good times, good friends, and unfiltered, incredible nature!
I honestly cannot recommend this enough! You can choose the 3hr, 5hr, or all-day safari, and as a quad beginner, I chose the 3hr option – and found it perfect. Demetris was an incredible host and so professional! The ride through Pafos forest was a fantastic experience- Cyprus is so darn beautiful it takes my breath away! Demetris stops often to check on you and informs you of every bit of nature and history you are viewing. It was invigorating, exciting, and utterly unforgettable. Thank you, Demetris and Safari Kalopanayiotis!
St John Lampadistis Monastery
One of the village’s most prized sightseeing spots is the thermal waters and the Unesco Heritage Church of St. John the Baptist. In a beautiful scenery full of green and running water, you can see rare heirlooms, icons, and murals! In 1985 UNESCO included the monastery together with eight other chapels on the Troodos range in the world heritage list. The monastery with its well-preserved frescos, icons, and wood carved doors is one of the most interesting byzantine sites of Cyprus!
Note: You are NOT allowed to take videos or photographs of the Interior of the church.
Discover Theoskepasti Chapel
Located a few meters east of the monastery of St. John the Illuminator, this stunning chapel, is almost entirely hidden by a 700 old tree. It is said that the tree grew this way overnight, to protect the village’s residents from intruders, and tradition insists that bad things will happen to anyone who dares to cut even a twig of the tree!
Shop at Pramatouthkia (Little Treasures)
Here you will find hand poured candles with essential oils, handmade skincare and bodycare products, spoon sweets, spices and many more!
Use the outdoor glass lift and explore the village by foot
Walking around is one of the best ways to explore the village – its narrow alleys, and winding streets! There is also a glass lift that costs 1 euro and saves you a 15-minute walk from the bridge to the top layer of the village.
Where to stay in Kalopanayiotis
In my humble opinion, agrotourism in Cyprus has many accommodation gems to offer – and sometimes it isn’t a holiday if you don’t spoil yourself a little bit…is it?
Casale Panayiotis
Discover village life in Cyprus through Casale Panayiotis – a luxury hotel resort and spa retreat! The award-winning hotel belongs to the ex community council president of the village, a man who has helped revive the village and bring work and life and tourism in full swing.
There are libraries for you to relax in, restaurants to eat in, an award winning spa to unwind in, and beautiful rooms for the ultimate relaxation!
Myrianthousa Spa at Casale Kalopanayiotis
The historic spa village of Kalopanayiotis has for centuries attracted visitors to its healing sulfur springs. Myrianthousa spa, combined the power of the thermal waters, with their spa knowledge and created an award-winning luxurious spa – that is a true joy to experience. There are milk baths and mud baths, bath rituals, thermal pools, reflexology, face and body treatments, and rooms for couple treatments too!
I have visited the spa on two separate occasions – once was to experience the thermal pools, and once for the Myrianthousa signature massage – and I found both experiences to be utterly heavenly. Book a spa treatment here
The thermal pool area is filled with Hydrotherapy, sauna herbal steam room, a snow cabin, and tropical and ice-mist experience showers. There is something very incredible about the soothing powers of the thermal waters with the jaw-dropping views…
As for the Myrianthousa massage – I have had my fair share of massages, as most of you know I am a complete spa junkie and visit spas all over the world. But my skilled masseuse impressed me, as she steadily dissolved every last knot in my body until my limbs felt like butter! Dearest Magda, you are incredible, and I thank you kindly! More services in Myrianthousa Spa
Maison Elena
At Maison Elena, you have the choice between a studio and two one-bedroom apartments equipped with balconies, kitchenette and amenities to make your stay very comfortable! A very good option for budget travelers with high expectations!
Where to eat in Kalopanayiotis
After you are finished exploring, make sure you take the time to relax – with a glass of wine or coffee in front of a big fireplace, or even with a delicious meal at any of the restaurants in the village. Here are some recommendations for food in Kalapanayiotis
Palio Cinema ( Old Cinema) incredible Cyprus Meze with indoor and outdoor seating. The pastitsio dish is to die for!
For more information call +357 99 130275.
Byzantino -(At Casale Panayiotis) Cyprus cuisine with a twist, based on fresh local produce
For more information call +357 22 952444.
Pantheon Snack Bar – They serve homemade burgers, salads, and desserts. It is on the main road with great views of the valley below.
For more information call +357 22 952444.
Cafe Oinos – Great place for wine or drinks and light snacks by the fireplace.
For more information call +357 99 789331.
Pedoulas Village
What to do and see in Pedoulas Village
In the neighboring village of Pedoulas, I walked and explored a lot, made new friends, and sampled what is probably the best food I have had in months!
The village’s nature trail takes you on a 5km walk through beautiful scenery and fascinating history. There are normally two museums in the village – but to my disappointment I found them both to be closed.
Archaggelos Michail Unesco Church
The wooden-roofed temple of the archangel Michael dates back to 1472 and is perhaps the most important attraction here as it is another Unesco heritage site church!
Where to stay and eat in Pedoulas
At Aristotelio Hotel, you will find luxurious accommodation, a warm and friendly welcoming, and incredible cuisine! I had breakfast and lunch at Aristotelio, and they were both lavish affairs. But what impressed me the most was the taste and quality of the food – I ate till I almost burst! Such warm hospitality from the hotel’s owners too – which makes everything so much more enjoyable!
The rooms at Aristotelio are pretty incredible – combining traditional agrotourism roots with modern and lavish amenities – the perfect combination in my eyes! Furthermore, they are spacious, have their own fireplace, impeccable interior design, and a balcony overlooking the green surroundings and mountain views. You will find 2 exclusive suites, two luxury suites with living room, and 4 junior and small suites. The exclusive suites have their own large jacuzzi too!
Going downhill to Moutoullas village, don’t forget to sample the best ‘’Loukoumades’’ in the region! (Loukoumades are Greek ball-shaped donuts dipped in honey). The village is well known for its mineral water known for its therapeutic properties. Also, the village of Moutoullas is very famous for its fruits (especially apples and cherries) and its cheerful and friendly people. Kyriakides Cafe ( located on the main road at the center of the village) . serves some pretty incredible loukoumades – a tradition he told me, he picked up from his own mother!
Kykkos Monastery
Kykkos Monastery may not be in Kalopanayiotis, or Pedoulas villages – in fact, it is a half-hour drive from there- but it is certainly worth a visit! This Monastery is the largest, most historic monastery in the whole of Cyprus!
Sitting high on the mountain peak at an altitude of over 1300 meters, this lavish and wealthy 11th-century monastery is a must-see! I remember my mother driving me there as a child, so I couldn’t pass up on the opportunity to visit now! The road to Kykkos isn’t the easiest, as it is uphill and filled with turns, but the views and serenity of the monastery make up for it.
For more info and visiting hours click here
Thank you for reading, and see you next week, for more Cyprus Adventures! Dont forget to follow me on Instagram and Youtube for more!
Love, Tia x
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16 comments
Tia your home country is seriously SO beautiful and your photos are amazing! I went to Cyprus in January this year and had such a good time. Would love to see more of it 🙂
So bummed we didnt know each other when you visited – i would have shown you around!
I feel like Cyprus doesn’t get talked about very much, which is a shame because judging from your pictures, it’s a really beautiful country. That safari sounds amazing.
I find it a shame that the only thing people know about Cyprus are the beaches and nightlife! There is so much history, culture and nature too!
First of all Casale Panayiotis looks heavenly. So beautiful and relaxing and luxurious. I loved the monastery and church, they look so pretty. What a great guide to a lovely looking place
Thank you Emma, i am so glad you enjoyed! Kykkos Monastery is so majestic
I thought Cyprus was beautiful when I visited a couple years ago. I didn’t get to the Nicosia area though. Your post definitely makes me want to go back. The thermal pools at Myrianthousa Spa sound so nice!
that massage was sooo heavenly and so were the thermal pools!
Another beautiful area of Cyprus you’ve highlighted!
What a blessing it is – thank you Cosette!
What a beautiful place – it is always good to have a native’s perspective of their home area. I look forward to spending more time in this part of the world one day.
Nothing like a local to get riiiight into every detail of a place!! totally agree!
I ha e never been to Cyprus but it looks amazing! I would love to visit. Thank you so much for sharing!
We would be delighted to have you Kelly!!
I absolutely love your photos! It’s been a while since I visited Cyprus, and your post definitely makes me want to go back 🙂 Thank you for sharing this amazing guide!
i am so glad to hear this! Thank you so much!