Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Upon Richard the Lionheart's marriage in Lemesos, he declared it 'the wine of kings' and 'the king of wines'.
For over 4000 years it has been made at the vast vineyards in the Kommandaria valley, exposed to the southerly
sun. Made from dark and white grapes, Kommandaria is as excellent as ever, with over a dozen villages still pro-
ducing it. Try
Revecca Spirits
(
www.reveccaspirits.com
) in Agios Mamas for a large selection. You can also visit
a number of the wineries and sample their produce.
Solea Valley
The Solea Valley, bisected by the Karyotis River, has significant frescoed churches built
during the late Byzantine era, when the area was revered for its importance as a strong-
hold.
The valley's reputation as a strategic refuge was furthered in the 1950s, when it served
as the prime hideout area for Ethniki Organosi tou Kypriakou Agona (EOKA; National
Organisation for the Cypriot Struggle) revolutionists during their anti-British campaigns.
With its concealed terrain and proximity to Nicosia, it was an ideal location.
Today it's still perfect for accessing the mountains and beyond, with roads to both the
east and west. The main village in the valley is Kakopetria, which is convenient for day
trips and longer stays, with decent hotels and good facilities.
Kakopetria
Pop 1200
Kakopetria, or
kaki petra
(meaning 'bad rock'), gets its name from the line of huge rocks
along the ridge around the village that were clearly a hindrance to the first settlers. Situ-
ated across both banks of the Karyotis River, expect steep roads, hanging trees and the
sound of natural storm drains.
The area is very popular with wealthy Cypriots, who retire to their homes in the moun-
tains for the summer months. The old quarter of the village is heritage listed, and many of
the houses have been restored accordingly, enabling it to retain its charm.
Kakopetria has good restaurants and accommodation. It's also another ideal place to
base yourself while exploring the frescoed churches and the surrounding area.
5
Eating
Village Pub
CYPRIOT
