Kakopetria (Cyprus): A Complete Travel Guide to This Beautiful Mountain Village

Kakopetria, Cyprus...

...Looking for a peaceful mountain escape in Cyprus? Then Kakopetria should be at the top of your list! :-)

Kakopetria is a destination that combines relaxation, nature, and culture in one place.

It’s nestled in the green foothills of the Troodos Mountains and is considered one of the island’s most enchanting villages.

Many say it’s a beautiful summer resort...we say it’s a year-round destination! Whether you visit in summer, autumn, spring or winter, Kakopetria offers warm hospitality in every season. It’s the perfect getaway for nature lovers, couples and anyone looking to experience authentic Cypriot village life.

So, get ready for a road trip to Kakopetria, where you will find:

• Tranquillity
• Cool climate
• Nature at its best (stunning mountain scenery)
• Delicious local food
• Narrow cobbled streets
• Stone-built houses with wooden doors and balconies
• Traditional architecture
• Friendly locals
• Agrotourism accommodation (traditional stone-built houses for your stay)

...all in one beautiful village!

Note: Renting a car? Click here.

Visit Kakopetria for a relaxing stay or a memorable day trip. Either way, you’ll truly enjoy your time there! Don’t forget your camera – you’ll capture stunning photos and create unforgettable memories.

So, are you ready to plan your adventure?

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your visit to Kakopetria, including where to stay, what to do, and where to eat.

Quick links:

• About Kakopetria, Cyprus
• Accommodation
• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• How to Get to Kakopetria
• Getting Around

About Kakopetria, Cyprus

The village of Kakopetria is surrounded by dense pine forests and breathtaking mountain views – perfect for photos.

This charming village is divided into two parts:

• The Old Village (known as “Palia Kakopetria” in Greek) full of restored traditional (stone-built) houses with wooden balconies and doors, and
• The newer area with modern amenities.

Note: If you’d like to step back in time, visit “Palia Kakopetria” with its narrow alleys, wooden doors and balconies, and flowers spilling from every corner.

The Location of the Village

Kakopetria is located in the Solea Valley in the Nicosia district (Nicosia = Lefkosia in Greek).

It lies on the northern foothills of the Troodos Mountains and is the highest village in the Solea Valley, at an altitude of 667 metres.

The drive there is part of the experience – you’ll pass through lush green landscapes and scenic mountain routes. Nature at its best!

We’ve visited Kakopetria many times, as it’s one of our favorite agrotourism destinations. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy nature, and experience true Cypriot hospitality – we absolutely love it! :-)

How The Village Got Its Name

“Kakopetria” comes from:

Kako = Bad/rough

Petra = Stone/rock

There are three main stories behind the name:

1. The area was once rocky and difficult to climb.
2. According to tradition, a large rock called “Petra tou Androgynou” (Couples’ Rock) rolled over and tragically killed a newlywed couple. After this, the rock became known as “Kakopetra” (bad rock), and the village took its name from it.
3. A local legend tells of a man named Petris, who was known for his difficult character. Petris was the first settler in the area of the Old Village. Two words “Kakos” (bad) and “Petris” were combined to form Kakopetria.

Residents

Kakopetria has about 1300 permanent residents – friendly and welcoming locals known for their warm hospitality.

Rivers of Kakopetria

The Kargotis and Garillis rivers meet in Kakopetria to form the Klarios river, which flows through the Solea Valley and into Morphou Bay.

Palia Kakopetria (Old Village) – Protected Cultural Heritage Site

If you visit Kakopetria, the old quarter is a must-see!

Palia Kakopetria is a protected cultural heritage site. Here, you can wander through cobbled alleys, admire traditional stone houses with wooden balconies, and enjoy the beautiful flowers decorating every corner.

It’s like stepping back in time!

Accommodation

Kakopetria is ideal for agrotourism. It offers a wide range of cozy and welcoming places to stay:

• Boutique hotels = Small, but stylish accommodation blending tradition with comfort.
• Traditional guesthouses = Stone-built houses with fireplaces and wooden balconies. This accommodation is perfect for a romantic stay.
• Family-run inns = Warm Cypriot hospitality.

Tip: Kakopetria is a year-round destination, so it’s best to book in advance – especially on weekends and during summer.

Where to stay, you ask? Some great options include:

• The Mill Hotel
• Thymises Boutique Hotel
• Maritsa Lodge

Things to Do

Although Kakopetria is a small village, there are plenty of things to do, whether you’re into nature, history, or just relaxing.

Explore Palia Kakopetria (“Old Kakopetria” in English) – Also Known as the “Old Village”

This is the main attraction. Walk through cobbled streets, admire traditional architecture, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It truly feels like stepping back in time.

Go Hiking or Enjoy Nature Walks

If you love nature, the Troodos area offers beautiful trails, especially along the river.

Visit Our Historic Churches

• The church of Ayios Nikolaos tis Stegis (Saint Nicholas of the Roof) is an UNESCO-listed Byzantine church with stunning painted murals that date from the 11th to the 17th century. This church is located 5 km from the village of Kakopetria.
• The church of the Transfiguration of our Saviour (Metamorfosis tou Sotiros in Greek) is built in the centre of the Old Village centre.

Visit Local Museums

• Linos Museum
• Olive Mill Museum

Relax and Have a Picnic by the River

There are shaded areas along the river where you can sit, relax, or even have a picnic – especially nice during the summer.

Visit All Year Round

• Summer: cool escape from the heat
• Winter: cozy mountain atmosphere

Troodos Ski Slopes

Kakopetria is close to the Troodos ski slopes – ideal if you enjoy skiing.

Taste Our Local Food

Dear foodies...

...The local food is delicious!

Read on to find out our favorite restaurants and taverns in Kakopetria.

Food & Drink

Kakopetria is full of traditional taverns, restaurants and charming coffee shops – perfect for food lovers. :-)

Note: For information on what to try, visit our National Foods.

Where to eat, you ask?

Try these restaurants and taverns...

• The Mill Hotel (Address: 8 Milos Street, 2800 Kakopetria, Nicosia, Cyprus. Tel: +357 22 922536)
• Chrisanthis Restaurant & Tavern (Address: Kakopetria – Troodos Main Road, 2800 Kakopetria, Nicosia, Cyprus. Tel: +357 22 922202)
• Taverna Stou Zoppi Lapithos (Address: 45 Andrea Mamantos, 2800 Kakopetria, Nicosia, Cyprus. Tel: +357 99 782031)
• Poji Poda (Address: 51 Arch. Makarios III Street, 2800 Kakopetria, Nicosia, Cyprus. Tel: +357 99 102810)

Expect generous portions, friendly service, and a relaxed dining experience.

How To Get to Kakopetria

The village is easy to reach from all major cities like Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos.

Approximate driving times:

• From Nicosia: 1 hour
• From Limassol: 1-1.5 hours
• From Larnaca: 1.5 hours
• From Paphos: 2 hours

Note: Driving is the best option, as you’ll enjoy scenic mountain routes along the way.

If you wish to rent a car, visit Car Rentals in Cyprus and Driving in Cyprus for more information.

(For some wonderful road trips, check out Cyprus Routes/Road Trips).

Getting Around

Once you arrive in Kakopetria, getting around is simple...

• On foot – the best way to explore the Old Village
• By car – useful for nearby attractions
• Cycling – popular with mountain biking enthusiasts

The village is small and walkable, so take your time and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

---

Kakopetria in Cyprus is more than just a destination...it’s an experience! From relaxing by the river to exploring historic streets and enjoying local food, it offers a truly authentic slice of Cyprus.

So if you’re planning a trip to Cyprus, don’t miss Kakopetria – you’ll be glad you visited.

We hope you have a wonderful holiday on our beautiful island. :-)

Find Us On Social Media

Why did we decide to create this website, a free step-by-step travel guide to Cyprus?

"To help you experience Cyprus the way locals do".

Maria & Chris

Newsletter Opt-in Form

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.