ROUTE:
Lefkosia (Nicosia), Skarinou, Lefkara, Kato Drys, Vavla, Ora, Odou, Farmakas, Gourri, Fikardou, Kalo Chorio.

This is a route takes in the rural areas of Larnaka and Lefkosia, making its way through ten villages, and including three wineries, small museums and workshops. Even though it is outside the traditional wine regions, there are active winemakers here who have planted vineyards with the Assyrtiko, Malvasia Aromatica, Chardonnay and Maratheftiko grape varieties. The route also includes a visit to the very well known village of Lefkara, popular for its lace and silverware, as well as Fikardou where you can see one of the oldest traditional wine presses in Cyprus.…

General characteristics

The geology of this area is quite interesting, as it combines the limestone and ophiolite rocks (long-ago rocks from the sea-bed, forced upwards above sea level). Quite a large portion of the Lefkara range is of limestone, with a landscape of steep slopes and deep ravines, into which rainwater tumbles. The route passes through the Machairas forest which covers part of both Lefkosia and Larnaka districts, with an altitude ranging from 300 metres (984 feet) to the 1,423 metres (4668 feet) of Kionia peak. Geologically, the area belongs to the Troodos ophiolithic complex, covering a forested area of igneous rocks.

Climate:
Mild climate with very low levels of humidity.

Terroir:
Combines limestone with ophiolithic rocks within a range of 100-1,400 metres.

Vineyards:
Although outside the boundaries of the traditional winemaking regions, growers in the area have produced robust vineyards.

White varieties:
Assyrtiko, Malvasia Aromatica, Chardonnay, Xynisteri, Sauvignon blanc.

Red varieties:
Maratheftiko, Cabernet, Merlot.

ROUTE:
Lemesos (Limassol), Trimiklini, Pelendri, Potamitissa, Dymes, Kyperounta, Chandria, Polystypos, Alona, Agros, Agios Ioannis, Agios Theodoros.

This route passes through the mountainous area east of the highest peak of Troodos. This is Pitsilia, a popular name in folk songs. The wine lover can visit 11 villages, nestling below three proud mountaintops – Olympus at 1,950 metres (6391 feet), Madari at 1,600 (5249 feet) and Papoutsa at 1,400 (4593 feet) – overlooking Pitsilia’s vineyards. In this rugged landscape, every accessible slope – and hence cultivated – is regarded as a gift from God and the local people have not left an inch unplanted: almond trees, olive groves, walnuts and apples adorn every street and every yard. But of, perhaps, greater interest is images provided by the expanse of vineyards, with the pine forests behind them. The long-ripening grapes here, the highest vineyards in the country, are picked and taken to two local winemakers.…

General characteristics

Pitsilia, one of the most complex mountainous areas of Cyprus, is surrounded by four forests: Troodos in the west, Machairas in the east, the “Adelphoi” in the north and the Limassol forest in the south. It has several high peaks, the main one being Papoutsa at 1,540 metres (5052 feet). Due to good levels of levels of rainfall the area is extremely fertile.

Climate:
The region has a pleasant moderate climate, with more variation between seasons than elsewhere. In winter the temperature drops below zero, often with ice and snow at its highest levels. In summer it is mild, warm and enjoyable. Spring and autumn seem quite short.

Terroir:
The region is intensely mountainous, but the arable lands are interspersed harmoniously with tracts of wild growth and forest. The soil is usually rather grey in colour, mild to mid-mechanical composition with a high level of sand.

Vineyards:
The region has 32 villages within the “Pitsilia” OEOP appellation. Apart from the local Mavro and Xynisteri, a further 11 grapes are cultivated.

White varieties:
Xynisteri, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Malaga.

Red varieties:
Ofthalmo, Vamvakada (Maratheftiko), Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mattaro, Mavro, Shiraz, Lefkada, Yiannoudi.

ROUTE:
Lemesos (Limassol), Kolossi, Erimi, Monagri, Agios Georgios, Silikou, Doros, Laneia, Trimilkini, Agios Mamas, Kapileio, Zoopigi, Kalo Chorio, Agios Pavlos, Agios Konstantinos, Louvaras, Gerasa, Apsiou.

This route belongs to Commandaria, the legendary wine of the region. The 14 villages that produce it are to be found at an altitude of 500 to 900 metres. They are surrounded by vineyards of indigenous red Mavro and white Xynisteri, the grapes that for centuries have been the backbone of this gorgeous sweet wine. The vines share the landscape with thick, bushy wild growth and sparse woods. The first stop is the village of Kolossi, location of the castle which dates back to the age of the Crusaders. … The Order of Knights of St John who were stationed here were early sponsors and developers of the unique sweet wine of the area, and provided the name that it proudly carries till today. Some researchers suggest that this is probably the mellow “Napa” known from historical times, first mentioned by the Greek poet Hesiod, who flourished sometime between 750 and 650 BC, in his writing “Work and Days”.

General characteristics

The rich flora and fauna are quite impressive, as well as the historic and archaeological monuments hereabouts. Here, too is the modern Kouris Dam, the biggest in Cyprus, by virtue of which, the land below it is gradually being transformed into an important wetland, with great ecological value. The area around the dam is ideal for nature walks, sports and environmental pastimes. Along the route you will find two significant wineries.

Climate:
All 14 Commandaria villages Commandaria are at the height of 500 to 900 metres (1640 to 2625 feet) above sea level. The region is divided into two soil types: limestone and volcanic-sandy. It has limited levels of rainfall, which gives very dry growing conditions because the vineyards are not watered. They survive and prosper with what available rain water there is. These conditions of high temperature, sunshine and reduced humidity during summer, the altitude, the ground soil and the unique method of processing the grapes, combine to give Commandaria its very special flavour and aroma.

Terroir:
In contrast with other wine producing zones, this area has a lot of shallow ground together combined with steep slopes and comparatively higher levels of calcium carbonate. Quite harsh in fact, and as a result, the vineyards’ crop per hectare is noticeably lower than those of the Pafos region.

Vineyards:
All the villages along this route belong to the “Commandaria” OEOP appellation. As indicated above, most vineyards cultivate the indigenous grape varieties.

White varieties:
Xynisteri.

Red varieties:
Mavro.

ROUTE:
Lemesos (Limassol), Kolossi, Erimi, Kantou, Souni-Zanakia, Pano Kivides, Agios Amvrosios, Lofou, Vouni, Koilani, Pera Pedi, Mandria, Kato Platres, Omodos, Vasa, Malia, Arsos, Pachna, Anogyra, Avdimou.

This beautiful wine region comprises 20 scenic villages that decorate the southern slopes of the Troodos mountains. The wineries scattered along this route, each in its own way generously reward the visitor seeking a unique and eclectic wine experience.
…

General characteristics

The route takes you through one of the most traditional viniculture areas on the southern face of the Troodos mountains with many winemaking villages and stands out with its unique flora and fauna. The geology of the area is of international interest as it comprises an ophiolite cluster dating 90 million years, 8,000 metres below sea level.. The geographic and climatic conditions in the area favour the cultivation of two basic indigenous grape varieties, the Mavro and Xynisteri. Along this route you will find 16 wineries that welcome visitors.

Climate:
he altitude of the area rises to 1,100 metres and at the higher points, in winter it is cold.

Terroir:
The ground in general is shallow to somewhat deep, gravelly and with large but smooth gradients. It is ideal for vine growing.

Vineyards:
The 20 villages along the route belong to the fourth appellation region (OEOP) with 23 different varietals cultivated here.

White varieties:
Xynisteri, Palomino, Malvasia L., Malvasia G., Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Semillion, Chardonnay, Malaga.

Red varieties:
Mavrro, Ofthalmo, Maratheftiko, Carignan, Mattaro, Oellade, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Alicante B., Grenache, Shiraz, Merlot, Lefkada.

ROUTE:
Pafos, Acheleia, Kouklia, Nikokleia, Choletria, Stavrokonnou, Kelokedara, Salamiou, Mesana, Arminou, Filousa, Agios Nikolaos, Praitori, Kedares, Agios Georgios, Mamonia, Fasoula.

East of the town of Pafos, there are three fertile valleys – of the rivers Ezousa, Xeros and Diarizos. This route climbs towards the Troodos mountains following the winding Diarizos riverbed, crossing it on occasions and passing 14 hilly villages, with an opportunity to visit just two, yet significant wineries.…

General characteristics

The valley lies west/southwest of Troodos and includes various types of habitats in a relatively small area. The flora and fauna has not yet been fully explored but so far a lot of endemic, protected and other species have been recorded.

Climate:
The area has a relatively mild climate, quite cold in winter and cool in summer

Terroir:
It is the outcome of the deposits from the rivers sourced in the Troodos mountains. In this area we will find the Mamonia Belt. This cluster comprises a special and complex tectonic collection of igneous, sedimentary and morphed rocks that date back to the Middle Triassic and up to the Upper Cretaceous age (230-75 million years ago).

Vines:
This route does not cross a specific appellation (OEOP) region, nevertheless the wines produced in the area are remarkable. Climbing upwards, you will come across 18 different types of vines, with the predominant being the Mavro.

White varieties:
Xynisteri, Palomino, Malaga, Chardonnay, Sultana.

Red varieties:
Mavro, Ofthalmo, Maratheftiko, Lefkada, Carignan, Mattaro, Oellade, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Alicante B., Grenache, Shiraz, Merlot.

ROUTE:
Pafos, Mesogi, Tsada, Stroumbi, Polemi, Psathi, Kannaviou, Asprogia, Pano Panagia, Chrysorrogiatissa, Agia Moni, Statos-Agios Fotios, Koilineia, Galataria, Pentalia, Amargeti, Eledio, Agia Varvara, Acheleia or Choulou, Lemona, Kourdaka, Letymvou, Kallepeia

In this region which, of course, has long wine traditions, among its profusion of vineyards, sprinkled here and there with modern wineries, you will encounter a welcome not only from the winemakers but everyone else – they are lively, they appreciate good wine and enjoy sharing their enthusiasm and their feelings. Good wine and good company are all you
… need – that is their motto.

General characteristics

The route lies east of Pafos in a mountainous area with relatively high altitudes. The steep slopes are covered by forest and vineyards. The environment creates habitats for a large number of flora typified by the clusters of oak (Quercus infectoria). The pine forests are mainly in the north east. The area has many types of mammals, amphibians, reptiles and birds. Along this route, the visitor will find seven wineries open to visitors.

Climate:
The area reaches an altitude of 1,144m (3,753 feet) and enjoys above average rainfall. It has a relatively mild climate.

Terroir:
The river valley soil is of loamy to clay technical composition.

Vines:
Most of the villages in the area belong to the “Vouni Panayias – Ambelitis” Appellation Controlé (OEOP), with 27 grape varieties of grape vine, of which there is an impressive showing of Carignan Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.

White varieties:
Xynisteri, Palomino, Malvasia L., Malvasia G., Ugni Blanc, Plant X., Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Semillon, Chardonnay, Sultana, Malaga, Muscat of Alexandria.

Red varieties:
Mavro, Ofthalmo, Maratheftiko, Lefkada, Carignan, Mattaro (Mourvèdre), Oellade, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Alicante B., Black Muscat, Grenache, Shiraz, Merlot.

ROUTE:
Pafos, Mesogi, Tsada, Stroumbi, Kathikas, Akourdaleia, Pano Arodes,Kato Arodes, Ineia, Drouseia, Polis, Pegeia.

This route is in the north-western part of Cyprus. It is of unique interest, as it is not devoted exclusively to wine. In this area, the wine lover and the gourmet can visit four wineries and taste their varied and individualistic wines, in combination with the tasty specialities of Cypriot food. Tavernas, of which there are plenty along the route, will be sure not to disappoint. Together with these delicious attractions, the visitor may enjoy a unique geography, unlike anywhere else on the island. Travel along the main roads E701 and E709, which climb to elevations providing some fascinating views, with various greenery, substantial expanses of forest and a liberal… lacing of vineyards combining to attract our attention. The outstanding feature of this unique wine zone is the Akamas peninsula. The diverse characteristics of the Akamas morphology, the flora and the wildlife rightfully make it a rare habitat. The visiting explorer/wine-lover truthfully has a feast for the eye, the ears, and the taste-buds.

General characteristics

The route is mainly located on the Akamas peninsula. It is a unique area with a remarkable and rare variety of geology, growth and wildlife. The relatively untouched environment and the charm of the communities, make it a joy for the walker and nature lover. The area is rich in viniculture and vast areas are covered by vineyards. Along the route, there are four wineries worth visiting.

Climate:
The area varies from 400 to 650 metres and has an annual rate of rainfall of about 610mm. It has a generally mild climate.

Terroir:
Most vineyards of this route are on lime (asbestolithic) ground, some in loamy-gypsum.

Vines:
The Kathikas area is famous for its white grape varieties, mainly the native Xynisteri. Most of the villages in the area belong to the Appellation Controllé (OEOP) “Laona Akamas”. In all, a further 19 different varieties are cultivated in the areas.

White varieties:
Xynisteri, Malvasia G, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Semillon, Chardonnay, Muscat.

Red varieties:
Mavro, Ofthalmo, Lefkada, Maratheftiko, Carignan, Mataro, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Alicante B., Grenache, Shiraz, Merlot.

The rich wine history of Cyprus has been alive and ongoing for something like 6,000 years. Take any of our seven routes to experience Cypriot hospitality and be introduced to the world of Cyprus wine. Visit any of the 41 modern wineries that presently operate on the island and taste their wines…. Agrotourism and other small units, tavernas and restaurants with high modern standards are here to provide you with accommodation and the unique dishes of the Cypriot kitchen. Go back in time by visiting restored traditional wine presses and museums that demonstrate the life, culture and traditions of the rural population. See the grape harvest, join traditional feasts and enjoy superb local wines in abundance. The Wine Routes programme has been implemented by the Cyprus Tourism Organisation with co-funding from the structural funds of the European Union for the initial six routes and by the European Fund for Agricultural Development for the seventh.