About this experience
In just one day, Cyprus will reveal all its beauties and mysteries to you. You will visit the atmospheric village of Lefkara, feel the tranquility at the Machairas Monastery. The mountain landscapes of Troodos will impress you with their grandeur, and the ghost town will captivate you with its abandoned spirit. We will also explore the medieval fortress in Famagusta and, of course, taste the local wine.
What to Expect
Colorful Village
Morning will start with a visit to one of the three greatest monasteries of Cyprus - Machairas. Surrounded by pine forests, it impresses with a peaceful atmosphere - I will tell you the legend of its establishment. Then we will visit the village of Lefkara, which has preserved its authenticity to this day. You will stroll along the narrow streets lined with three-hundred-year-old houses, see the Church of the Holy Cross, and learn how this relic was tested. One of the village's main attractions is the local craftsmen: since the Middle Ages, men here have been creating intricate silver and gold jewelry, while craftswomen have always been famous for their lacework "lefkaritiko".
Wine and Mountains
At a family-owned winery, you will taste the local wine - it has a unique bouquet, and I will explain to you how it differs from wines of other regions of Cyprus. You will tour the winery facilities and learn where and how the wine is made, and in the cellar, you will see oak barrels where the drink matures. Driving through the foothills of the Troodos Mountains, we will make a stop at a viewing platform to enjoy the breathtaking view of this mountain range. Next, you will visit a cave where the British burned one of the Cypriot resistance fighters and hear the story of this struggle for freedom.
The Past and Present of Turkish Cyprus
To complete the picture of Cyprus, we will head to the northern part of the island, to its Turkish side. Here lies the ghost town of Varosha - I will tell you about the tragic events that led to the island's division. A fortress of the town of Famagusta will transport us back to the Middle Ages. You can climb the fortress wall and overlook the entire port. Afterwards, visit the Church of St. Nicholas and learn why the kings of the Lusignan dynasty became rulers only after a second coronation.
Organizational Details
- Transfer is included in the price
- Tasting is available for an extra fee (2 euros/person)
- The route may change due to technical reasons (road closures, weather, COVID restrictions)
I can also create a very interesting itinerary for travelers staying in the city of Famagusta, Iskele, and the surrounding areas - we can discuss the program and cost via correspondence.