The velvet season of autumn has arrived. This is not only a great time for beach holidays but also an excellent season to explore the mountain villages of Cyprus. Each of them holds treasures: ancient monasteries, unique architecture and culture, and other lesser-known attractions. One such village is Kalopanayiotis, located at 700 meters above sea level in the Troodos Mountains.

So, what makes it interesting, and why do many guides recommend including Kalopanayiotis in your travel itinerary? Let’s explore the village and its cultural and natural treasures. We’ll also introduce other nearby Troodos attractions and explain why the mountain villages of Cyprus are perfect for a relaxing getaway.

A Little About the Village

Kalopanayiotis has been known since the 11th century, although settlements existed here much earlier, during antiquity. The village is situated in the Marathasa Valley, one of the most picturesque and fertile regions of Cyprus, near the villages of Moutoullas and Prodromos, as well as the high-altitude village of Pedoulas.

The name “Kalopanayiotis” translates from Greek as “good Panayiotis.” Panayiotis is a common male name in Cyprus, and the prefix “kalo” means “good” or “kind.” The village name may honor a virtuous resident, though many legends surround its origin, and there is no single agreed-upon explanation.

Monastery of Saint John Lampadistis

Ancient monasteries in Cyprus have a unique spiritual atmosphere. Surrounded by Byzantine icons, frescoes, and incense, one forgets worldly concerns and enters a mysterious, sacred world.

A major attraction is the Monastery of Saint John Lampadistis, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike.

Saint John Lampadistis was born in the 11th century in Lampadou, near Galata village. From a young age, he wished to dedicate his life to God, but his parents arranged a marriage for him. Even after marrying, he lived with his wife as a spiritual sister. When his in-laws consulted a sorcerer, John was poisoned and became blind. Despite this, he moved to the Marathasa Valley, founding a small hermitage near the temple of Saint Heraclides, another local saint.

The monastery is modest, like many Cypriot monasteries, built from stone and wood. The church has a triangular roof resembling a cabin, designed to prevent snow accumulation in winter. The walls are adorned with UNESCO-protected frescoes. The relics of Saint John Lampadistis and Saint Heraclides are kept here, and a nearby Byzantine icon museum displays rare local icons.

Nearby is the baptismal site of Saint Heraclides, where Apostles Barnabas and Mark baptized him in the 1st century AD. Similar monasteries include Ayios Nikolaos tis Stegis in Kakopetria, built in the 11–12th centuries, also featuring UNESCO-protected frescoes.

Healing Springs

Kalopanayiotis is sometimes called Cyprus’ healing village, thanks to the sulfur-rich waters of the Centrakh River. One spring is used for gastrointestinal treatments, and the other for skin conditions. The village has been a center for healing since Byzantine times, and in antiquity, an Asklepieion (ancient healing center) existed near the current monastery. Today, it attracts visitors seeking both relaxation and health benefits.

Where to Stay

Casale Panayiotis is a local landmark, a boutique spa hotel consisting of seven traditional houses restored using local materials. The hotel features three restaurants, a spa, and rooms with breathtaking views of the mountains and Marathasa Valley. The decor includes handmade items.

Casale Panayiotis is a model of ecotourism and sustainable village restoration, supporting local crafts and preserving Cypriot culture and architecture. Besides the hotel, visitors can rent traditional houses throughout the village via agritourism platforms. Kalopanayiotis is now a central hub for eco-tourism in Cyprus.

What to See

Old Chapels

Two small but charming chapels are worth visiting:

1. Panagia Theoskepasti Chapel, built in the 12th century, hidden behind a 700-year-old oak tree. It houses a rare 14th-century icon of the Virgin Mary (a copy of the Kykkos icon).
2. Chapel of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, in the village center, also contains a rare 14th-century icon of the Virgin Mary.

Not all ancient chapels in Cyprus are UNESCO-protected, though some are on the tentative list, like the Angeloktisti Chapel in Kiti, Larnaca.

Local Sweets

Marathasa Valley is rich in fruit and nut trees. Try local treats:

1. Walnut jam (glyko karidaki)
2. Soutzoukos, grape syrup with nuts, similar to churchkhela
3. Roasted nuts in honey or pomegranate syrup

All sweets are made without added sugar or artificial coloring.

Nearby Villages

Other Troodos mountain villages worth visiting include Moutoullas, Pedoulas, Prodromos, and smaller atmospheric villages like Tres Elies, Gerakies, Lambouri, and Ikos. About 20 minutes from Kalopanayiotis is Kakopetria, with UNESCO-protected chapels and rivers Kargotis and Garillis, forming the Clarios River. Its old town, Palia Kakopetria, features narrow streets, traditional houses, and cozy tavernas. Snow occasionally falls in winter. Kakopetria is perfect for a slow, relaxing getaway.

Hiking Trails

Kalopanayiotis offers hiking routes for all levels:

1. Easy stroll: along the river under the Venetian bridge.
2. Short hike: Kalopanayiotis–Ikos trail (4.5 km)
3. Moderate hikes: Vineyard Trail or Mountain Trail (9.7 km)
4. Long hike: Discovery Trail (12 km) through forests, valleys, and springs
5. Circular route: Kalopanayiotis–Panagia Mavroforousa (9.3 km) with stunning views

How to Get There

Kalopanayiotis is accessible by car from Nicosia, Limassol, and Paphos:

1. From Limassol: Troodos mountain roads via Troodos Square and Pedoulas
2. From Paphos: mountain road via Panagia village
3. From Nicosia (fastest): Troodos highway near Meniko, with signs to Kalopanayiotis

Venturing into the Troodos Mountains allows you to step back in time, walking narrow cobbled streets and discovering vibrant village life. Mountain villages like Kalopanayiotis offer unforgettable experiences year-round, combining natural beauty, heritage, and slow-paced “siga-siga” living.

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