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The Invisible Juniper: An 800-Year-Old Sentinel of Troodos

Discover an ancient Juniper on the Atalanti Trail in Cyprus's Troodos Mountains, a testament to nature's enduring strength and beauty.

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Venture into the heart of the Troodos Mountains to witness a natural wonder: an ancient Juniper tree, estimated to be 800 years old. This remarkable specimen stands as a testament to the resilience of nature and offers a unique glimpse into the island's rich ecological history.

A brief summary to Αόρατος (Άρκευθος) του Τροόδους ηλικίας 800 ετών

  • WVF6+W9J, Μονοπάτι Αταλάντης, Chypre, CY

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the Atalanti Trail can be rocky in places.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months.
  • Allow 4-5 hours to complete the Atalanti Trail at a comfortable pace.
  • Visit in autumn or spring for mild temperatures and stunning views.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The 800-year-old Juniper is located along the Atalanti Nature Trail, which starts and ends at Troodos Square. From the square, follow the well-marked signs for the Atalanti Trail. The trail is a circular route of approximately 14km and is considered of medium difficulty. The Juniper is located along the trail, approximately 3km from the starting point.

  • Public Transport

    Reach Troodos Square by bus from major cities like Nicosia or Limassol. From Nicosia, the journey to Troodos Square takes approximately 2 hours and costs around €8. Once at Troodos Square, follow the walking directions to access the Atalanti Trail and the 800-year-old Juniper.

  • Taxi

    From Platres, a taxi to Troodos Square will cost approximately €20-€25 and take around 30 minutes. From Troodos Square, follow the walking directions to access the Atalanti Trail and the 800-year-old Juniper.

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Discover more about Αόρατος (Άρκευθος) του Τροόδους ηλικίας 800 ετών

Deep within the Troodos National Forest Park, along the Atalanti Nature Trail, lies a silent giant: an 800-year-old Juniper tree (Αόρατος Άρκευθος). Known locally as 'Aoratos' or 'the invisible one,' this Foetid Juniper (Juniperus foeditissima) has stood watch over the mountains for centuries, its gnarled branches reaching towards the sky. The tree is a remarkable example of the Juniper species, which thrives in the harsh conditions of the Troodos range. Its presence is a reminder of the island's diverse flora and fauna, and its ability to survive for so long is a testament to its resilience. The Atalanti Trail itself winds around Mount Olympus (Chionistra), offering breathtaking views of the island and the Mediterranean Sea. The trail passes through dense forests of black pine, offering shade and a sense of tranquility. As you hike, keep an eye out for other endemic plants, such as the Golden Oak and Troodos Alison, and for the diverse wildlife, including the Cyprus Viper and Cyprus Warbler. The trail also passes by the entrance to an abandoned chromium mine, a relic of the island's industrial past. The 800-year-old Juniper is a highlight of the Atalanti Trail, a moderate 14km hike that starts and ends at Troodos Square. The trail is well-marked, making it accessible to hikers of all levels.

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