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Kionia - Profitis Elias Nature Trail: A Mountainous Escape

Hike through Cyprus's stunning Machairas Forest on the Kionia - Profitis Elias Nature Trail for panoramic views and a touch of history.

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Escape into the heart of Cyprus with the Kionia - Profitis Elias Nature Trail. This 7km hiking path winds through the Machairas Forest, offering stunning views of the Mesaoria plain and a chance to explore the island's rich biodiversity and history.

A brief summary to Kionia - Profitis Elias Nature Trail

  • Κλόνια - Προφ. Ηλίας, CY

Local tips

  • Start at the Kionia picnic site for a mostly downhill hike, or begin at Profitis Elias for an uphill challenge.
  • Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, especially during summer, as shade is limited in some areas.
  • Consider hiking during the cooler months (March-May or November) to avoid the intense heat.
  • Combine your hike with a visit to the Machairas Monastery for a deeper cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Nicosia, take the A1 highway towards Limassol, then follow signs to Machairas Monastery. From the monastery, continue towards Vavatsinia. The Kionia picnic site, the trail's starting point, is located on this road. Parking is free at the picnic site. Be aware that the road can be narrow and winding.

  • Public Transport

    While public transport directly to Kionia is limited, you can take a bus from Nicosia or Limassol to nearby villages like Vavatsinia or Lythrodontas. From there, a taxi can take you to either the Kionia picnic site or the Profitis Elias Monastery to start the trail. A taxi from Vavatsinia or Lythrodontas will cost approximately €15-€25.

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Discover more about Kionia - Profitis Elias Nature Trail

The Kionia - Profitis Elias Nature Trail is located within the luxuriant Machairas Forest in Cyprus, offering a refreshing escape from the island's coastal heat. This 7km linear trail is considered one of the most beautiful in Cyprus, combining natural beauty with historical significance. The path connects the Kionia picnic site with the abandoned monastery of Profitis Elias, presenting hikers with varied landscapes and panoramic views. The trail begins at the Kionia picnic site (1240m), accessible from the road connecting Vavatsinia village to Machairas Monastery. Alternatively, hikers can start from the Profitis Elias monastery end (700m), reached via a 5km dirt road from Lythrodontas. The route is part of the E4 European long-distance trail and is well-maintained, making it suitable for most hikers. As you traverse the trail, you'll be treated to views of the Larnaca and Nicosia regions. The path meanders along the southern slopes of hills before crossing a ridge to the north. The forest is filled with pines, golden oaks and other Mediterranean flora. The trail also holds historical importance, having served as a hideout for local guerillas during the island's liberation war (1955-59). The now-abandoned Profitis Elias Monastery dates back to the Byzantine era, adding a cultural layer to the hike.

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