Nestled among the rolling foothills of the Troodos Mountains, Omodos stands as one of Cyprus’s most enchanting and atmospheric mountain villages—a place where tradition, craftsmanship, and natural beauty come together in perfect harmony. Although it’s just an hour’s drive from Limassol, Omodos feels worlds away from the coastal bustle. Here, the air is cooler, the pace slower, and the rhythm of daily life shaped by centuries of enduring customs, artisanal heritage, and spectacular rural scenery. This is the kind of village where stories are woven into stone walls, where the aroma of baking bread drifts through narrow alleys, and where every corner seems to hold a glimpse of the island’s soul.
The beating heart of the village: The stone-paved square
At the centre of Omodos lies its sprawling stone-paved square, one of the largest and most visually striking village squares in Cyprus. Its vast open space—surrounded by whitewashed houses, vine-covered balconies, and traditional coffee shops—creates a welcoming gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Elderly residents often sit beneath the shade of mulberry trees, chatting over tiny cups of Cypriot coffee, while artisans open their workshop doors to display handmade lace, woodcarvings, and delicate jewellery.
The square is also home to numerous family-run tavernas, where visitors can sample authentic mountain cuisine: clay-baked bread, smoky sausages, rich stews, and meze platters that stretch across entire tables. The sense of community here is palpable, with much of village life unfolding within sight of this central space.
A Village Woven in Lace: Ploumi and Local Craftsmanship
Omodos is renowned for its traditional lace-making craft, known locally as ploumi or Omodos lace. This delicate art has been passed down through generations, preserved by women who learned intricate stitchwork from mothers and grandmothers. In the village’s small boutiques and workshops, visitors can watch lace-making demonstrations and browse everything from ornate tablecloths to fine-edged handkerchiefs. Each thread tells a story, and the patterns—often inspired by nature or religious motifs—reflect the deep cultural roots of the region.
Beyond lace, the village supports a vibrant community of craftspeople producing ceramics, silverware, embroidery, woven textiles, and traditional sweets. Their shops are sprinkled throughout the village’s twisting lanes, each offering a glimpse into a craft that has shaped Omodos’s identity for centuries.
A place of pilgrimage: The Holy Cross Monastery
A short stroll from the square brings you to the Monastery of the Holy Cross, one of the oldest, most respected, and historically significant monasteries in Cyprus. Its foundations date back to at least the Byzantine era, and according to tradition, the monastery houses a fragment of the Holy Rope that bound Christ’s hands on the Cross. Its cool stone interiors, centuries-old frescoes, carved wooden iconostasis, and peaceful courtyards invite quiet reflection.
Visitors can explore the monastery’s ecclesiastical museum, which showcases ancient manuscripts, religious artefacts, and beautifully preserved icons. The building itself—looming yet serene—has been a spiritual centre for the surrounding communities for generations, and it remains a cornerstone of Omodos’s cultural and religious heritage.
Vineyards, wine legends & Commandaria country
Encircled by a tapestry of terraced vineyards, Omodos has long been associated with Cyprus’s most celebrated winemaking traditions. The hillsides glow green in spring, golden in summer, and deep crimson in autumn, reflecting the seasonal cycle that defines local viticulture. Many of Cyprus’s most prized grape varieties—Xynisteri, Maratheftiko, Mavro, and Ofthalmo—are cultivated here in the mountain soil, nourished by cool breezes and long sunny days.
Just outside Omodos, you can find Gerolemo Winery, surrounded by some of the most picturesque vineyards in the region. This family-run estate has built a reputation on its commitment to traditional Cypriot winemaking, combined with a thoughtful embrace of modern techniques. Gerolemo places particular emphasis on cultivating indigenous varieties—especially Xynisteri and Mavro—using the altitude and mineral-rich soils to bring out their crisp, aromatic character. Visitors often remark on the serenity of the estate: the sweeping views of the Troodos foothills, the calming silence of the countryside, and the warm hospitality that greets them the moment they arrive.
Inside the tasting room, the winery offers a diverse portfolio that includes refreshing whites, well-balanced rosés, and smooth reds with subtle spice.
The estate’s proximity to natural trails also makes it an ideal spot for travellers looking to pair a tasting session with a leisurely countryside walk.
Zenon Winery, is a boutique estate known for its small-batch philosophy and dedication to indigenous varieties such as Xynisteri, a crisp and refreshing white grape, and Maratheftiko, a complex, aromatic red that has become a hallmark of Cypriot wine identity. Visitors can step into Zenon’s intimate tasting rooms, where knowledgeable hosts guide them through a curated selection of varietals, offering insight into the region’s microclimates, soil profiles, and traditional winemaking techniques. The experience is relaxed, educational, and infused with the warmth typical of village hospitality.
Linos Winery is one of the area’s most established and historically rich wine producers. With origins tracing back several generations, Linos has long been a cornerstone of the village’s winemaking culture. The winery’s name—derived from the ancient Greek word linos, meaning wine press—reflects its deep roots in traditional viticulture.
Visitors can explore the atmospheric stone cellars, where barrels line the cool walls and the air carries soft notes of aging wine. Linos’s portfolio is broad, offering everything from fruity, easy-drinking whites to full-bodied reds made with Maratheftiko and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Perched at a higher elevation near the slopes that lead toward the Troodos Mountains, Olympus Winery takes full advantage of its cooler microclimate and panoramic surroundings. The winery is named for the towering Mount Olympus of Cyprus (also known as Chionistra), which watches over the region and influences its unique weather patterns. This elevated environment allows Olympus Winery to cultivate grapes with excellent acidity and freshness, particularly suited to crisp whites and balanced reds. The winery has become known for its clean, elegant expressions of both indigenous and international grape varieties.
The region also plays a key role in the production of Commandaria, the island’s ancient sweet wine and one of the oldest named wines still made in the world. With a history stretching back to the Crusader era, Commandaria is deeply embedded in local life; many village families have produced their own version for generations, using traditional sun-drying and fermentation techniques that remain largely unchanged.
Nature at every turn
Beyond its cultural treasures, Omodos offers access to some of the Troodos region’s most scenic landscapes. Winding walking trails lead past almond groves, wildflower meadows, aromatic herbs, and gently flowing streams. Whether you’re setting off on a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, the surrounding hills reward exploration with panoramic views and peaceful encounters with nature.
Birdsong, the scent of pine, and the shimmering colours of hillside vineyards create an immersive natural experience—one that perfectly complements the village’s cultural richness.
A village that lives through its festivals
Many travellers choose to visit Omodos during one of its lively annual festivals, which fill the streets with music, dancing, traditional performances, and tables laden with local delicacies. The most famous of these is the Wine Festival, held each summer, where visitors can enjoy tastings, demonstrations of traditional grape products, and cultural events that celebrate the region’s deep ties to viticulture. Seasonal feasts dedicated to saints, harvest celebrations, and lace festivals further enrich the village calendar, turning Omodos into a vibrant cultural stage.
Timeless beauty and warm hospitality
Whether you come for the wine, the history, the mountain air, or the welcoming people, Omodos offers an unforgettable experience. Its blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and natural serenity creates a sense of timelessness—an invitation to slow down, wander its cobbled pathways, and discover stories preserved for centuries. In every stone house, in every handmade lace pattern, and in every glass of local wine, the village reveals a different facet of its identity. Omodos is not just a place to visit; it is a place to linger, savour, and return to again and again.
To explore more of Cyprus:
Unearthing Cyprus: Walking through 10,000 years of history
Paphos: Where myth, history and the sea meet
Aphrodite’s Rock: The heart of Cyprus’ coastal magic
Nicosia: Inside Europe’s last divided capital
From flamingos to Finikoudes: Fall in love with Larnaca
Limassol: The Mediterranean city that has it all
Protaras – Cyprus’s family-friendly coastal gem
Ayia Napa: Cyprus’s sun-drenched blend of buzz and beauty
Cyprus, but cooler: Why Troodos is the island’s best-kept secret
Best beaches in Cyprus – From golden sands to hidden coves
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