Cyprus may be famous for its beautiful beaches, but it’s also home to two distinct mountain ranges that add a surprising twist to the island’s landscape. The Troodos Mountains—the largest and highest range—lie in the central and southwestern part of the island. Meanwhile, the Kyrenia Range in the north is a smaller but rugged limestone formation, giving you two very different mountain vibes in one island trip.
On our way into the Troodos Mountains, we couldn’t resist a stop in one of the many picturesque villages scattered along the winding roads. Lazanias—perched at an altitude of roughly 900 meters—quickly stole our hearts. Despite being home to only about 40 people and filled with several abandoned buildings, the village offers breathtaking views across the island. From Ayia Napa, the drive took us around an hour and a half, but the mountain air and peaceful scenery were well worth the journey.
A major highlight nearby is the Holy Monastery of Machairas, founded at the end of the 12th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. If you love history and stunning architecture, this spot is a must-see. Right next to the monastery is a museum and an imposing bronze statue dedicated to Grigoris Afxentiou, a national hero who fought for Cyprus’s independence from British rule.
On our way back down the mountain roads toward Ayia Napa, we made an impromptu stop in Episkopeio to marvel at a beautiful Orthodox church. Its gold domes and blue roofs glinted under the warm sun, making it a truly striking sight. We even met a friendly cat there—so eager to join our road trip—that we almost came home with an unexpected travel buddy!
Check out our Cyprus travel video from YouTube!
Not So Basic Tourists 
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