Cyprus is getting more and more popular as a top spot for all cycling fans around the globe. It boasts one of Europe’s warmest climates, with temperatures reaching 20 degrees from February and 325 sunny days annually. Its impressive mountain range, led by Mount Olympus, offers breathtaking views. With excellent road conditions and minimal traffic, cyclists can enjoy smooth rides. Plus, the cuisine is delightful, with charming seaside and mountainside local cafes.
Situated in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus provides ideal seasonal cycling conditions, rivaling destinations like Mallorca and the Canaries. The Troodos mountains offer diverse terrain, passing ancient sites, serene forests, vineyards, and olive groves. Cyprus’s undiscovered status among cyclists sets it apart—empty roads invite exploration, unlike other Mediterranean locales.
What’s the Climate Like in Cyprus
Cyprus, with its warm and mild climate, is a haven for cycling enthusiasts. The region experiences hot, arid summers from mid-May to mid-October, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of a challenge. The winters are mild, rainy, and somewhat variable, lasting from November to mid-March, offering a different but equally enjoyable cycling experience. These seasons are interspersed with brief periods of autumn and spring, adding variety to your cycling adventures. Throughout the year, temperatures typically range from 8°C to 32°C, rarely dropping below 4°C or exceeding 34 °C, ensuring comfortable cycling conditions.
Kolossi Castle—Pissouri Beach Loop
Distance: 86 km with 1103 m elevation gain
Kolossi Castle stands proudly on the southwest edge of Kolossi village, 14 kilometers west of Limassol, Cyprus. A former Crusader stronghold, its origins date back to possibly 1210, initially constructed by the Frankish military and later rebuilt in 1454 by the Knights of the Order of St John of Jerusalem. Throughout the Middle Ages, the castle held immense strategic importance, housing extensive facilities for sugar production, a vital export of Cyprus at the time.
Embarking on a cycling adventure from Limassol to Pissouri village unveils the breathtaking countryside of Cyprus. Opting for the southern road out of Limassol toward Trachoni treats cyclists to stunning views of evergreen trees lining the coastal road. Approaching Pissouri village, cyclists are greeted by traditional stone houses lining the streets, while the vibrant village square bustles with local activity and tourists enjoying meals at charming cafes and restaurants. This cycling route from Limassol to Pissouri village offers a captivating fusion of natural beauty and historical charm. Suitable for cyclists of all levels, it promises an unforgettable journey through the serene Cypriot countryside. So, gear up and embark on an adventure rich in history and scenic wonders.
Zygi Beach—Zygi Loop
Distance: 66 km with 623 m elevation gain
Nestled in Cyprus, Zygi boasts several distinctive beaches, each offering its own unique charm. Kalymnos Beach stands out for its black sand and tranquil ambiance, while Governor’s Beach provides a serene getaway with its intriguing geology and hidden coves. White Rocks beckons visitors with its striking white cliffs, offering a secluded escape. Hidden Bay, known for its picturesque beauty and calm waters, is a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts.
Zygi Public Beach serves as a charming haven adorned with colorful beach stones. Situated closest to Tochni and Kalavasos, it’s an ideal stop for cyclists looking to combine a bike ride with a refreshing swim. With a short, straight coastline featuring dark sand and shallow waters, this beach is perfect for families seeking tranquility away from the crowds, even during peak season. Amenities include loungers, umbrellas, beachside restaurants, changing rooms, toilets, and lifeguard supervision.
Kouris Dam—Olympos Loop
Distance: 103.3 km with 2977 m elevation gain
Kouris is the largest dam among Cyprus’s network of 107 dams, nestled at an altitude of 250 meters (820 ft). It collects water from the Kouris, Limnatis, and Kryos rivers, diverting additional water from the Diarizos River via a 14.5-kilometer (9.0 mi) connecting tunnel. With an expansive catchment area of 300 square kilometers (190 mi), Kouris plays a vital role in water management on the island.
The journey to Olympos unfolds along a winding road, offering breathtaking ocean views. Remnants of Cyprus’s recent history, such as abandoned checkpoints and bullet holes in roadside buildings, serve as occasional reminders along the route. However, as one ascends through the picturesque village of Platres, surrounded by pine trees and new chalets, a sense of peace envelops the area.
After a brief ascent of three hours to an elevation of 1800 meters, the village of Troodos emerges, offering a selection of restaurants with hearty lunch options and breathtaking views. Yet, the journey isn’t over; cyclists push onward, ascending to the Mount Olympus ski station, passing by abandoned bars, ski lifts, and a military satellite station. Signs caution against attempting a summit photo, emphasizing the risk of intervention, prompting a descent through tiny villages and vineyards, spanning 65 kilometers back to sea level. As cyclists reach the coast, a celebratory beer awaits, marking the end of this exhilarating journey through Cyprus’s diverse landscape.
Kofinou—Lemesos (Limassol)—Pafos (Paphos) Cycling Route
Distance: 119.5 km with 1232 m elevation gain
The route begins at Kofinou, heading south and then southwest toward Lemesos. It passes through the villages of Choirokitia, Moni, Amathous, and Potamos tis Germasogeias before reaching Lemesos. From Lemesos, it continues westward to Zakaki, Fasouri, and Kourion, eventually leading to Petra tou Romiou. Finally, it heads northwest, concluding near the Pafos castle.
Kofinou, situated in the Larnaca District of Cyprus, lies at the intersection of roads from Nicosia, Larnaca, and Limassol, a junction predating the 1990s bypass. Lemesos, still commonly called Limassol, is a vibrant city often overlooked by visitors. While modern developments adorn its eastern fringe, the historic core, centered around the castle, exudes charm. Narrow lanes weave through a mix of old shuttered houses and contemporary boutiques, teeming with cafes, bars, and restaurants cherished by both locals and tourists.
Paphos, located on Cyprus’s southwest coast, boasts a rich history dating back to Neolithic times. It encompasses sites linked to the goddess Aphrodite, including Old Paphos (Kouklia), her mythical birthplace. New Paphos incorporates the harbor and the ancient ruins of tombs, fortresses, theaters, and villas within Paphos Archaeological Park.
Kosta Pitsillidi—Amathous
Distance: 35 km with 213 m elevation gain
Amathous, an ancient city-kingdom of Cyprus, was steeped in myth, including the tale of Theseus leaving Ariadne in the care of local women. It was also a significant center for the worship of Aphrodite-Astarte. During the Hellenistic era, Demetrios Poliorketes oversaw the construction of Amathous Harbour, comprising the outer and inner port. The outer port, roughly 100 by 180 meters, featured piers to the east and a breakwater to the south. Still, it silted up quickly, limiting its use.
Behind the outer port, the inner port provided shelter for ships during storms but was also abandoned early due to siltation issues. Only fishermen frequented the harbor by the 3rd century BC, and by the 1st century AD, it had dried up entirely. Although now submerged, remnants of the harbor are still visible today.
Recommended Places to Stay in Cyprus
Aphrodite Hill Villas: 3, Aphrodite Avenue, Kouklia 8509 link | Instagram
Minthis Resort: Minthis Street, 8540, Cyprus link | Instagram
Pefkos Hotel: 70 Misiaouli & Kavazoglou, Limassol, Cyprus 3016 link | Instagram
Recommended Places to Eat in Cyprus
Bike and Beans Coffee Station: Misiaouli & Kavazoglou, Limassol 3012 Instagram
Kofini Tavern: Leoforos Amathountos 78, Agios Tychonas, Limassol 4532 Instagram
Recommended Bike Rentals in Cyprus
CCT Bike Rental: online service link | Instagram
Atlas Rentals: Tsiflikoudion 38, 3010, Limassol, Cyprus link
ABC Bike Rental (Paphos): 21 Ikarou Str, Paphos, 8041, Cyprus link | facebook
If you notice any inaccuracies or wish to contribute your experiences and valuable information to our guide, such as routes, recommended accommodations, cafes, or bike rental options, we welcome your input. Feel free to contact us through our WhatsApp Community.