viewpoint
Palaiomylos Viewpoint: A Troodos Mountain Vista
Mount Olympos: Cyprus's Highest Peak
Discover Cyprus's highest peak: Hike scenic trails, ski snowy slopes, and explore the breathtaking Troodos Mountains.
Mount Olympos, also known as Chionistra, is the highest point in Cyprus, reaching 1,952 meters (6,404 feet). Located in the Troodos Mountains, it offers diverse experiences from winter sports to summer hikes, rewarding visitors with breathtaking views and a unique landscape.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Mount Olympos
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
WVP7+HH, Troodos, CY
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Getting There
Driving
From Nicosia, take the B9 highway towards the Troodos Mountains. The drive is approximately 67 km and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Limassol, take the B8 highway, which is about 45 km and takes approximately 1 hour. From Paphos, the journey is about 88 km via the B8/E801, taking around 1.5 hours. Once in the Troodos area, follow the signs to Mount Olympos. The road to the summit is paved (F935). Be aware that the road is steep with a maximum gradient of 12%. Parking is available near the ski resort. There are no tolls. Parking is free.
Public Transport
From Nicosia, take the line 41 bus to Makario Stadium Bus Station, then transfer to the 408 bus to Troodos Camping Site 1. The total journey takes approximately 2 hours and 39 minutes. From Troodos village, it is about 2.2 kilometers to the Artemis Trail. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings. Bus fare is approximately €5-€7.
Walking
If you are in Troodos village, start at Troodos Square and follow the signposts to Mount Olympos. The trail is well-marked and leads uphill through pine forests. The hike from Troodos Square to the viewpoint of Mount Olympos takes about 30-45 minutes. Continue on the marked trail to reach Mount Olympos, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. There are no costs associated with walking.
Local tips
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Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the trails, as some paths can be steep and rocky.
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Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light and cooler temperatures.
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Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
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Bring warm clothes, as it is cooler at the top.
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Stay on designated trails to avoid encounters with snakes during the summer months.
Discover more about Mount Olympos
Mount Olympos, or Chionistra, is the highest peak in Cyprus, towering at 1,952 meters within the Troodos Mountains. The mountain's strategic location provides panoramic views of the entire island, from rugged coastlines to rolling hills. While the actual summit is occupied by a British military radar station and is off-limits, the surrounding area offers a wealth of activities and natural beauty.
In winter, Mount Olympos transforms into a snowy wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders. The Cyprus Ski Club operates a ski resort with several lifts and slopes for all skill levels. Imagine skiing with the Mediterranean Sea shimmering in the distance.
As the snow melts, hiking trails reveal the island's verdant beauty. The popular Artemis Trail, a 7km loop around the summit, offers moderate hiking with stunning vistas. The Atalante Nature Trail, slightly longer at 13.5km, provides equally rewarding scenery. Keep an eye out for diverse flora and fauna, including endemic plant species.
The Troodos Mountains are a geological marvel, formed from an ancient underwater volcano. The Troodos Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark, allows visitors to learn about the region's geological past. In ancient times, Mount Olympos was believed to be the home of the gods, and a temple dedicated to Aphrodite once stood on its promontories.
A brief summary to Mount Olympos
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