Your next destination KALOPANAYIOTIS

Kalopanayiotis is plucked straight out of a fairytale, with cobblestone paths, picturesque houses, and evergreen mountain views that stay with you forever. Discover it with our top tips for a well-rounded experience.

Written by Ioanna Lambrou

Nestled in the Marathassa valley, Kalopanayiotis is arguably one of Cyprus’ most interesting villages. An abundance of greenery, traditional houses with tiled roofs and inner courtyards, and cobblestone streets adorn the village, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. Most known for its healing mineral waters and its luxe hotel, this quaint little village has enjoyed thousands of years of prosperity. In its pre Christian era, the village belonged to the kingdom of Soloi and was a designated wellness retreat for the royalty of the time; the village is still considered one of Cyprus’ most famous wellness spots. If you’re still on the fence about booking a few days to spend at Kalopanayiotis, read on and we’ll convince you; we’ve gathered everything that will enhance your stay.

The lengthy drive to get to Kalopanayiotis is definitely worth it, and if it’s not just for the unforgettable views and the unique feeling you get being literally surrounded by nature, you’ll definitely do it just for the experiences you’re guaranteed to have during your stay, however short or long it may be. Our most crucial recommendation is a long walk along the many narrow cobblestone paths of the village. Who knows where you could end up, who you could meet! Don’t be scared to pick up a conversation with the locals, they’re always friendly, and Cypriot grandmothers are definitely happy to talk anyone’s ear off with stories of the past! During your walk make sure you stop by the village’s newest addition, ‘Pramatouthkia’. A typical Cypriot word that literally translates to ‘little things’, ‘Pramatouthkia’ is a little shop in the centre of the village, filled with knick-knacks, locally produced jams, teas, essential oils, soaps, and quite truthfully, anything else that you can think would be included in a shop called ‘little things’.

When you’re done buying up just about everything from the store, feel free to roam up to the monastery of Ayios Ioannis Lambadistis; built in the 11th century, the UNESCO World Heritage monastery is a quintessential Cypriot landmark that boasts masterful architecture, well-preserved frescoes and its location also offers views that will leave you mesmerised – that would also make for amazing insta posts. While at the monastery, make sure you explore the Byzantine Museum next door, and if you’re visiting in the early days of October then you’ll be met with an open-air market in honour of the Saint’s day, which is on the 4th, filled with stalls of locally produced treats, handmade knick-knacks, and books.

If you’re looking for a little more walking, make sure you test out the healing waters of river Setrachos, right next to a magnificent 16th century Venetian bridge; the waters’ healing properties have been known throughout the island since antiquity and it is believed that a temple dedicated to Asclepius once stood where the monastery is now. The river, the bridge, and the Kykkos Watermill can all be found along a marked nature trail that is completed by thousands of visitors every year. The village of Kalopanayiotis offers a unique breath of fresh air, both literally and figuratively, as it encompasses the beauty of tradition and nature, while also balancing it with modernity.

A stark, yet welcome contrast is the state-of-the-art clear lift situated in the centre of the village that offers unobstructed mountain views of the entire Marathassa valley. As for something a little more relaxing, we recommend stopping by KafeOinos, a stone-built café, for a quick coffee break before heading back. The traditional coffeeshop also offers a beautifully cosy fireplace for winter visitors.

After your daytime adventures of exploring Kalopanayiotis, we recommend winding down with a spa session at the Myrianthousa Spa, located at the coveted boutique hotel Casale Panayiotis. The spa offers a wide range of therapeutic and revitalising experiences, including romantic after-hours sessions which make use of the Thermal Suite and a couple’s massage in your room. After the ultimate relaxation, your next stop should involve food; we’ve got a few recommendations for you and they’ll all be unforgettable.

The restaurant offers traditional Cypriot meze with a twist, making it a hot spot for locals and tourists alike.

First up is Vyzantino, located in one of the many traditional buildings belonging to Casale Panayiotis. The restaurant offers traditional Cypriot meze with a twist, making it a hot spot for locals and tourists alike. If you want to truly get a sense of tradition, however, we recommend you book a table at To Palio Cinema. This spot, as its name suggests, used to be a cinema until its conversion to one of Kalopanayiotis most beloved restaurants. Our top tip: make sure you try Angie’s famous homemade makaronia tou fournou, it’s a divine experience!