Ksistarouda

The island of Cyprus is a hiker's paradise, offering a multitude of trails that showcase the island's natural beauty. Among these trails is the Xystarouda natural trail, a challenging and rewarding hike that is not for the faint of heart. Located in Nicosia district and specifically around 13 km outside Pedoulas towards Kykkos Monastery, the Xystarouda natural trail is a 10.5 km long hike that is categorised as difficult. The highest altitude is 900 meters, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area from the peaks of the mountains. The hike itself is demanding and strenuous, but it also provides the walker a view of an infinite beauty. It crosses two streams, and the vegetation and the forest is very dense. The trail is linear, which means that you need to return back after completing the hike. The difficulty of the trail lies in the fact that it has almost 1 hour and 15 minutes of downhill walk and the rest 45 minutes changes to uphill. However, despite the challenging nature of the hike, the Xystarouda natural trail is a generous one, offering hikers an impressive and magical landscape that even the most demanding person cannot be left untouched. The running water from the streams provides a green scenery worth walking, and the algae on the rocks, the streams, the picturesque wooden bridges, and the dense forest shape a beautiful and tranquil landscape. The Xystarouda natural trail also has several viewpoints where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. These viewpoints are located at the peaks of the mountains and provide an excellent opportunity for hikers to take a break, relax and appreciate the stunning scenery around them. There are two starting points for the Xystarouda natural trail. You can choose to start from the Xystarouda picnic area or Saint Vasiliki church. To get to the Xystarouda – Agiasma – Vasiliki trail, follow the road from Pedoulas to Kykkos Monastery (road E912). When you reach 13 km away from Pedoulas village center, you will see the Xystarouda picnic area on your left hand. The starting point of the hike is found exactly opposite the picnic area. It is important to note that hikers should be properly prepared before embarking on the Xystarouda natural trail. The hike is difficult and strenuous, and hikers should be physically fit, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and carry enough water and food to sustain them throughout the hike. In conclusion, the Xystarouda natural trail is an exceptional hiking trail that offers a challenging and rewarding experience for hikers. The trail's impressive and magical landscape, combined with its panoramic views, make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers visiting Cyprus. So, if you are up for the challenge, grab your hiking boots, and embark on an adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories of Cyprus's natural beauty.