Secrets of Mountainous Nicosia: Day Trips That Will Captivate You

Join us on a journey with five unforgettable stops

The mountain areas of Nicosia are places that win you over instantly. Hidden villages, stone-built houses, lush forests, and authentic people create a setting that rivals far more famous destinations. Here, life moves at a slower pace, inviting you to pause, breathe, and savour every moment.

Whether you’re planning a one-day escape or a relaxed weekend getaway, this guide has five magical stops you won’t want to miss.

Fikardou: A Village-Museum Frozen in Time

Fikardou isn’t just a village, it’s a living museum. Wandering through its narrow streets, you’ll discover beautifully preserved 18th-century stone houses, courtyards filled with basil, and old wooden doors that seem to hold centuries of stories. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the village is a rare example of traditional Cypriot architecture.

The atmosphere is enchanting: silence broken only by rustling leaves and the sound of your footsteps on the cobblestone paths. Here, life still flows as it once did, calm, genuine and traditional. 

Tip: Don’t miss the panoramic view from the village’s highest point. With the mountains in the background, it looks like a postcard brought to life.

Xyliatos Dam & Machairas Monastery: Where Nature Meets the Soul

Xyliatos Dam is one of the most picturesque corners of the region. Surrounded by forests, its waters mirror the colours of every season, lush and vibrant in spring and summer, serene and cinematic in winter.

Just a short drive away lies Machairas Monastery, built in the 12th century on the mountain slopes. Legend says that the icon of the Virgin Mary was revealed after a “knife” cut through the dense bushes, hence the name Machairas. The monastery is more than a religious site; it’s a spiritual landmark woven into the area’s identity.

Tip: Pack a snack or coffee and enjoy a peaceful picnic at the dam’s kiosk. It’s a moment you’ll remember forever.

Temvria – Kalo Chorio Oreinis: A Walk Into Pure Tranquillity

Nature lovers will adore the trail between Temvria and Kalo Chorio Oreinis. The path winds through streams, pine-shaded areas, and small chapels... a stroll that feels like stepping into a fairytale.

The stillness here is its greatest gift. No noise, no crowds, just birdsong and the gentle flow of running water.

Tip: Start early to enjoy the cool morning air and wear comfortable shoes. The hike is easy, but the experience is unforgettable.

Farmakas: A Gastronomic Heaven in the Mountains

Farmakas is the village that knows how to spoil you. Famous for its wines and traditional taverns, it offers comforting home-cooked dishes, halloumi from local producers, and of course, regional wine served with genuine Cypriot hospitality.

Vineyards and olive groves blanket the landscape, creating the perfect blend of nature and flavour.

Tip: Book a visit to a local winery. The wine tasting alone is a highlight and a bottle from Farmakas makes the perfect souvenir.

Alona & Palaichori: Where Tradition Comes Alive

Alona feels like a village painted by hand, red-tiled roofs, blooming courtyards, lively squares. In summer, locals bring out their chairs and chat outdoors late into the night.

A little further down the road, Palaichori offers deep history and cultural richness. Its churches house frescoes that tell stories of faith and art spanning centuries. Tradition here isn’t just preserved, it’s lived every day.

Tip: Sit at a local café, order a Cypriot coffee, and let time slow down. These are the moments that stay with you.