Cobbled squares, stone houses and family wineries scattered across the vine-covered hills north of Limassol — the heartland of Cypriot wine.
The hills above Limassol are known as the Krasochoria — literally 'the wine villages' — a cluster of about twenty mountain settlements where winemaking goes back over five thousand years. This is where Commandaria, often called the world's oldest named wine still in production, was first made for the Knights of the Order of St John.
Omodos is the best-known village: a beautifully preserved settlement built around the Monastery of the Holy Cross (Timios Stavros), with a wide cobbled square, old wine presses and lanes lined with lace, sweets and local crafts.
Around it lie villages like Koilani, Vouni, Lofou and Vasa, each with its own character, tavernas and small wineries. Together they form one of the most scenic and rewarding day trips on the island — a slow, tasty journey through old Cyprus.
The heart of Omodos, this historic monastery is said to hold relics of the Holy Cross and has a richly decorated church and museum.
Small producers across the villages welcome visitors for tastings of dry wines, Commandaria and the traditional spirit zivania.
One of the largest village squares in Cyprus, ringed by cafés and craft shops — perfect for a long lunch.
Restored medieval presses in Omodos show how wine and olive oil were made for centuries.
Photogenic stone villages with steep lanes, agrotourism guesthouses and panoramic valley views.
Terraced vineyards and orchards make the drive itself a highlight, especially during the autumn harvest.
Spring for green hills and blossom; September–October for the grape harvest and village wine festivals.
A relaxed full day lets you combine two or three villages, a winery tasting and a long village lunch.
If you plan to taste wine, it's far better not to drive — a designated driver lets everyone enjoy the cellars.
Commandaria, zivania, village wine, soutzoukos sweets and handmade lace are classic local buys.
Omodos is about 45 minutes (≈ 42 km) northwest of Limassol, climbing into the Troodos foothills.
Wine villages and driving don't mix — which is exactly why a private tour shines here. We build a tasting route across Omodos, Koilani and Lofou, wait while you eat and sample, and get everyone home safely with the day's purchases in the boot.
The Krasochoria are about twenty traditional villages in the Limassol hills, the historic centre of Cypriot winemaking and the home of Commandaria, one of the world's oldest named wines.
Yes — it's one of the best-preserved villages in Cyprus, with a historic monastery, a large cobbled square, wineries and craft shops, making it a favourite day trip from Limassol.
Absolutely. A private tour with a driver lets your whole group taste freely at several wineries and return safely, which is the recommended way to explore the villages.
Skip the rental car, parking and maps. Travel with a local driver who knows every road in Cyprus — comfortable, safe and at your own pace, 24/7.
Fixed prices, a local driver and no hire car to worry about. See Taxi from Limassol to Troodos, or browse all our routes and prices.