Atalanti Nature Trail: A Circumnavigation of Mount Olympus

The Atalanti Nature Trail, named after the mythological huntress Atalanta, offers a rewarding hiking experience in the heart of the Troodos Mountains. This 14km circular trail circumnavigates the Chionistra mountain (Mount Olympus), the highest peak in Cyprus, at an altitude of 1,700 to 1,750 meters. The trail takes hikers through dense forests of black pine and Foetid Juniper, some of which are 800 years old. Along the way, hikers can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the island and observe the unique Troodos Ophiolite complex, a section of the Earth's upper mantle. Informative signs provide insights into the local flora, including endemic species like the Golden Oak and Troodos Alison, and fauna such as the Cyprus Viper and Mouflon. A particularly intriguing site is the entrance tunnel of a former chromium mine, which has been decommissioned since 1982. The trail is considered to have a medium difficulty and typically takes 4 to 5 hours to complete. The path is well-maintained and marked, though hikers should exercise caution due to some bulky rocks along the route. A natural spring with potable water and wooden benches is located approximately 3km from the starting point. The Atalanti Trail is located within the Troodos National Forest Park, a Natura 2000 area.