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Pano Platres: A Mountain Retreat

Escape to Pano Platres in the Troodos Mountains for a refreshing retreat filled with hiking, history, and Cypriot charm, offering a perfect blend of nature and culture.

Pano Platres, nestled high in the Troodos Mountains, offers a refreshing escape from the Cyprus coast. This charming village, with its rich history dating back to ancient times, became a popular summer resort in the 20th century due to its cool climate and stunning natural beauty. Today, it's a haven for nature lovers and hikers, boasting numerous trails like the Caledonia and Millomeris Waterfall trails. Explore the village's traditional architecture, visit the church of Panagia Faneromeni, and sample local delicacies in the quaint cafes and tavernas. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby waterfalls, the Troodos National Forest Park, and the Sparti Rope Park for an adventurous day out. Pano Platres provides a perfect blend of relaxation, cultural immersion, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for a memorable mountain getaway.

A brief summary to Pano Platres

  • Pano Platres, CY

Local tips

  • Hike the Caledonia Waterfall Trail in the spring for the most vibrant scenery and a raging waterfall fed by winter rains.
  • Visit Sparti Rope Park for an adventurous day with activities suitable for all ages and skill levels.
  • Explore the local craft shops for unique souvenirs, including traditional woodwork, ceramics, and handmade jewelry.
  • Sample local wines made from indigenous grapes like Xynisteri and Mavro at the village's wine shops.
  • Enjoy a traditional Cypriot dinner at a local taverna, trying dishes like souvlaki or moussaka accompanied by local wine.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Limassol, take the B8 towards Troodos. The drive is approximately 39km and takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Follow the signs to Pano Platres. Parking is available in the village, but it can be limited during peak season. Consider parking slightly outside the main village area and walking in. Parking fees vary but expect to pay around €3-€5 for a day.

  • Public Transport

    From Limassol, take the EMEL bus route 62 or 64 to Pano Platres. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The bus stops at the Pano Platres Village Center 1. A single fare costs around €2-€3. Check the EMEL website for the most up-to-date schedule.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Limassol to Pano Platres will cost approximately €40-€50 and take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Ride-sharing services like Bolt and Uber may be available, but availability can be limited in the mountain regions. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Bus from Troodos Square

    If you are coming from Troodos Square, you can take the EMEL bus to Pano Platres Village Center 1. The bus ride is approximately 14 minutes and costs €2.

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Discover more about Pano Platres

Pano Platres, often simply called Platres, is a picturesque village perched at an altitude of 1200 meters in the Troodos Mountains of Cyprus. Located approximately 39 kilometers from Limassol and 9 kilometers from Troodos, it offers a tranquil escape from the heat of the coastal regions. The village's history stretches back centuries, with evidence suggesting its existence during the Frankish and Venetian eras. Originally, the area was inhabited by shepherds and vine growers, but it transformed into a sought-after summer resort in the early 20th century, attracting visitors with its cool mountain climate and natural springs. The village's name has several possible origins. One theory suggests it derives from the word 'platra,' referring to a weaver who sold her products in the village. Another links it to the French term 'plâtre,' meaning white plaster, possibly connected to a Frankish monastery with white-robed monks that once stood in the area. A third theory proposes that the name evolved from 'platsa,' meaning a flat area. During the British colonial period, Pano Platres flourished as a popular destination for wealthy Egyptians, international socialites, and renowned authors. The Forest Park Hotel, still operating today, hosted dances, beauty contests, and famous guests like King Farouk of Egypt and poet Giorgos Seferis. Seferis even immortalized Platres in his poem 'Helena,' with the line 'the nightingales will not let you sleep in Platres.' The Brandy Sour cocktail, now a Cypriot staple, was created at the Forest Park Hotel for King Farouk. Daphne du Maurier is said to have written much of her novel 'Rebecca' while staying at the hotel. Today, Pano Platres retains its charm, offering a mix of traditional Cypriot culture and modern tourism. The village is surrounded by lush forests, with numerous hiking trails catering to all skill levels. The Caledonia Waterfall Trail leads to one of the highest waterfalls in Cyprus, while the Millomeris Waterfall Trail offers a more relaxed walk through verdant landscapes. The Troodos National Forest Park, covering over 9,000 hectares, provides opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and panoramic views. In the village itself, visitors can explore the church of Panagia Faneromeni, dating back to 1880, and the Roxani Koudounari fountain, a marble monument on Caledonia Street. The Old Municipal Market has been renovated into a Cultural Center. For adventurous travelers, Sparti Rope Park offers over 140 activities and 11 zip lines. Pano Platres also boasts a sweet side, with chocolate shops like The Chocolate Shop and Sophisticakes and Chocoholics offering delectable treats and workshops. Local craft shops sell traditional woodwork, ceramics, and handmade jewelry, while wine shops offer a taste of Cyprus's viticultural heritage. While the village experienced a decline in tourism after the Turkish invasion of 1974, it has seen a resurgence in recent years, attracting visitors seeking alternative and nature-based holidays. The permanent population is around 250, but swells to over 10,000 during the tourist season. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful retreat, Pano Platres offers a unique and memorable experience in the heart of the Troodos Mountains. Explore the hiking trails, discover hidden waterfalls, indulge in local cuisine, and soak in the village's rich history and natural beauty. Pano Platres is a destination that will captivate your senses and leave you with lasting memories. Consider visiting nearby attractions such as the Panagia Chrysorogiatissa Monastery, the village of Omodos, and various Byzantine churches, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Each offers a glimpse into the island's rich cultural and religious history. For a taste of local life, visit the cafes and tavernas lining the central square, where you can enjoy Cypriot coffee, pastries, and traditional dishes like souvlaki and moussaka. Sample local wines made from indigenous grapes like Xynisteri and Mavro. Whether you're hiking through the mountains, exploring historical sites, or simply relaxing in the village square, Pano Platres offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of Cyprus.

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