About this experience
Journey through the holy places in Cyprus purifies the soul and inspires for new achievements. I will take you to ancient churches and monasteries, tell you about the history of Christianity, about the country and events not found in guidebooks. And we will also visit quiet mountain villages, enjoy the landscapes of Troodos and stop by for a glass of wine at a winery.
What to Expect
Peak of Mount Olympus
Our first stop will be at the highest point of Cyprus - the peak of Olympus. You will walk along a mountain trail to the viewing platform, where you will see breathtaking views of the northern coast of the island, Mesaoria Valley, and Morphou Bay. After these inspiring sights, we will continue our journey to the main monasteries of the country.
Kykkos Monastery
On the way to this sanctuary, you will see one of the most picturesque corners of Cyprus with its mountain slopes and passes. Traveling through them, we will find ourselves in the serene and blessed place of Kykkos Monastery. Here is one of the three icons of Evangelist Luke - the Kykkos Icon of the Virgin Mary, prayers to which help in the birth of healthy children. In the baptistery, you can touch the greatest relics for all Christians: here are the shrines with relics that the Kykkos brotherhood has kept and protected for centuries.
Peak of Mount Troodos
From the foot of the mountain, we will reach its peak to walk in the new park of Kykkos Monastery. Here you will also see the Mausoleum of the first president and archbishop of the Republic of Cyprus. In addition to ancient buildings, there are also modern ones: at the highest point of the mountain in 2019, a magnificent rotunda temple was built in honor of the Kykkos Icon of the Virgin Mary Eleusa, which you will also see.
Trikkukkotissa Monastery
Admiring the mountain landscapes and nature of Cyprus along the way, we will gradually arrive at one of the oldest monasteries on the island, Trikkukkja. Here you will be greeted by the nuns who will treat you to coffee, homemade pastries, jam, and lemonade, which will be very welcome in the middle of our journey. Next, you will explore the monastery's possessions: there is a small church here where daily services are held. And you will touch its relic - the icon of the Mother of God Trikkukkotissa.
Trooditissa Monastery
A 15-minute drive along the mountain roads of Troodos awaits us at a monastery known worldwide. In the church, you will find a miraculous icon saved during the iconoclastic heresy. Prayers near it, as well as a special rite by the priest, can help women conceive. The monastery also carefully preserves the Belt of the Virgin Mary, which is put on the waist of women during the sacrament. Nearby there is a spring with the purest water that you can fill in bottles and take with you. Its healing properties will help restore the strength of weary travelers.
Monastery and Church of the Holy Cross (Omodos Village)
The next place we will visit is famous for its age of several thousand years and its best grape varieties on the island and in the world. In Omodos village stands the Monastery and Church of the Holy Cross — it is known that the monastery was built in the 2nd century! And in the church, the ropes of Christ, a part of the Life-Giving Cross, and the relics of great Christian saints are carefully preserved. In addition, there are thematic museums on the premises that anyone can visit.
Ancient Winery
Wine tasting, olive oil, and local delicacies - after our eventful journey, relaxation awaits you at the winery in a warm company. You will discover new flavors, share your impressions in a pleasant atmosphere, and perhaps even choose something from the shop made by local craftsmen: handicrafts in a national style, jewelry, embroidery, ceramic, and clay products.
Organizational Details
The tour can also be organized for groups of 7 people or more.
What's Included in the Price
- Departure from Limassol (additional 35 euros from Larnaca, Nicosia, Paphos; 45 euros from Ayia Napa and Protaras)
- Visit to the museums of the Monastery of the Holy Cross in Omodos
- Tastings
Additional Expenses
- Lunch and drinks. Upon your request, we can organize lunch in a traditional mountain tavern with meat or fish cuisine (lunch with Cypriot meat meze, wine, and soft drink from 14 euros per person.
- Entrance ticket to Kykkos Monastery Museum - 5 euros/adult, 3 euros/child
- The tour can be conducted for a larger number of travelers (up to 7). The surcharge for additional passengers from 5 to 7 people is 50 euros.
