Kykkos Monastery, the richest and most venerated in Cyprus, sits tucked into the forests of the western Troodos. The road there from Pedoulas winds through pine woods and mountain villages, with the option to push on to Cedar Valley, refuge of the island’s endemic cedar.
The route
From Pedoulas, the paved road rolls up and down through Troodos forest to Kykkos Monastery, covering about 13 km and 450 m of elevation gain. To extend the ride, a forest track starting at Kykkos leads another 10 km or so to Cedar Valley, bringing the round-trip total to around 26 km and 620 m of combined elevation gain.
How to approach the ride
The main road rides easily on a road bike, but the track to Cedar Valley — packed dirt, stony in places — calls for a gravel bike or a hybrid with wider tires. Carry plenty of water, as refueling stops are scarce past Pedoulas.
When to go
April to October, since the Cedar Valley track can turn muddy after heavy winter rain. Spring brings particularly pleasant light through the pine and cedar forest.
Good to know
Pedoulas, known for its cherry blossoms in spring, is home to the Church of the Archangel Michael, one of the ten Troodos painted churches listed as UNESCO World Heritage. Kykkos Monastery itself is worth exploring on foot for its gilded mosaics and small museum of Byzantine art.
