Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Artemis Trail
HIKING
(Chionistra Circular Trail)
Ideal for a first hike, this trail goes around the summit of Mt Olympus in a roughly circu-
lar loop, beginning and ending in the small car park off the Mt Olympus summit road. The
track runs alternately through shaded and open areas with spectacular views to the south.
It takes in vegetation like St John's wort, Troödos sage, alyssum and barberry, and the
geology includes a chromite pit and veins of pyroxenite and dunite.
The route also features the 'Walls of the Old Town', which legend says are remnants of
the Venetian fort. The ski lift is conveniently located on this trail, should you come in
winter. The 7km trail is fairly flat and takes three to four hours to complete. Come pre-
pared with drinking water and a hat.
Persephone Trail
HIKING
Named after the mountain it ascends, this trail takes you on an attractive out-and-back
hike through tall pines, rich vegetation and open areas with views to the horizon. The trail
is 3km long and takes about an hour and a half to complete.
There's a lookout at the top of Makria Kontarka, where you can see the spread of vine-
yards and wine villages as far as Lemesos port to the south. On the northern side look for
the enormous scar in the earth left by the now-closed asbestos mine at Pano Amiantos.
Atalante Trail
HIKING
Starting at the square in Troödos, this 12km trail is great for walkers as it's relatively
easy-going and well marked. Named in honour of forest nymph Atalante, it runs at a
lower altitude than the Artemis trail but follows nearly the same route. While the views
are not as spectacular as those from the higher trail, it's still an enjoyable walk.
There's a fresh spring with drinking water about 3km from the trail's beginning. To get
back to the village take the main Prodromos-Troödos road. Allow around five hours.
TROÖDOS VISITOR CENTRE
Just south of Troödos' main street and worth checking out, the
visitor centre
(admission €1;
h
10am-3pm Jun, to
4pm Jul-Aug, shorter hours rest of the year) includes a small museum with displays dedicated to examples of all
the region's flora, fauna, geology and wildlife. A mini-theatre plays an informative 10-minute audiovisual
presentation detailing the park's history, and a geographic display in the foyer outlines the park's boundaries,
mountains and environs. Importantly, all maps, brochures and published information about the region, including
hiking trails and vegetation, are available here. The 250m botanical and geological trail surrounding the centre is
an easy introduction to the area's attractions for children and adults alike.
