The Highest Mountain in Cyprus: Where is it and How to Climb It?

Mount Olympus is the highest point on the entire island of Cyprus, including its northern part. Where exactly can it be found, and is it possible to climb it?

• Mount Olympus in Cyprus
• How to Climb Mount Olympus
• Interesting Places for Tourists
• Frequently Asked Questions about Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus in Cyprus

Mount Olympus, also known as Olympos or Chionistra, stands at 1,952 meters and is the highest point in Cyprus. It is located in the Troodos Mountains, and its summit administratively belongs to the Platres area in the Limassol District.

The climate here is mountainous yet warm, Mediterranean, and summery. Both locals and tourists often visit during summer to enjoy the coolness and escape the summer heat.

How to Climb Mount Olympus

Currently, a British long-range radar station operates at the peak of Mount Olympus, which prohibits civilians from reaching the summit. Photographing the facility is also not allowed. However, you can explore the mountain slopes, which offer plenty of attractions, including circular trails that surround the peaks at various levels.

By Car

You can drive fairly high up, almost to the radar station, but it is recommended to leave your car in the village of Platres and enjoy an easy hike as far up as possible.

On Foot

We do not recommend breaking the law, but if you hike along forest trails from the Zeus ski lift, you might reach the radar station. Just try not to attract attention. You didn’t hear this from us!

Either way, climbing is worthwhile, even if not all the way to the top. In summer, you can relax in the green heart of the island, while in winter, you can enjoy snow on the four ski slopes. In the surrounding villages, tourists can immerse themselves in Cypriot culture, visit Byzantine monasteries and churches, explore nature, and take in breathtaking views.

Interesting Places for Tourists

According to the accounts of geographer Strabo, a temple dedicated to Aphrodite Acraea (Aphrodite of the Heights) once stood at the summit of the mountain, where women were forbidden to enter. Today, no trace of the temple remains, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to see on the mountain.

The main attraction for tourists is the Troodos Geopark, which includes the slopes of Mount Olympus. In 2015, the park was officially added to the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. The park encompasses 110 communities with a total population of about 25,000.

Near the summit, there are several noteworthy places for tourists (links lead to locations on Google Maps):

• Remains of Ancient Chora Walls
• 500-Year-Old Pine Tree
• Giant Black Pine
• Historic Copper Mine
• Another Mine to the North

Additionally, Troodos is famous for its UNESCO-listed churches, exquisite wine routes, cozy artisan villages, and the renowned Kykkos Monastery.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mount Olympus

Is there a ski resort on Mount Olympus?

Yes, Mount Olympus has a ski resort. Although snow is rare in Cyprus, you can typically ski for about a month each year. Learn more about ski lifts, trails, and other details in our article "Ski Resort on Mount Olympus in Cyprus."

What hotels are closest to the summit of Mount Olympus?

The closest hotels to the summit are the Troodos Hotel & Spa and Jubilee Hotel. You can also stay in several hotels in the villages of Prodromos and Platres.

Can you drive to Olympus in a rental car?

There are no restrictions, except in winter, when cars without snow chains may be prohibited. You can select the "Winter Package" option when renting a car through Localrent, or purchase or rent snow chains independently. We’ve detailed how to install them in a separate article.

How to get to Olympus by public transport?

Buses from cities in Cyprus, mainly Limassol, go only as far as the villages of Platres and Prodromos, after which you’ll need to walk. We have several articles about how to reach the Troodos Geopark:

• How to Get from Limassol to the Troodos Mountains
• How to Get from Larnaca to the Troodos Mountains
• How to Get from Paphos to the Troodos Mountains
• How to Get from Nicosia to the Troodos Mountains

Follow us on Instagram and Telegram for more interesting updates about traveling to Cyprus!