Lythrodontas to Profitis Elias MTB
Cycling Routes
Lythrodontas to Profitis Elias MTB
- 03:46
- 21.6 mi
- 5.7 mph
- 2,125 ft
- 2,125 ft
One of the most beautiful and historic cycling routes in Cyprus awaits you in the Machairas Forest, a true gem for nature and mountain biking enthusiasts. Known as the “home” of the internationally renowned Cyprus Sunshine Cup, the area has hosted athletes from around the world since 1997, earning rave reviews for its ideal terrain and authentic Cypriot hospitality.
The route traverses a mesmerizing landscape, nestled among dense pine forests that isolate you from the distractions of daily life. During the winter and spring months, the area comes alive with small streams and brooks, creating a fairytale-like experience.
Along the route, you’ll encounter the historic abandoned monastery of Prophet Elias, a perfect spot for reflection and photos. Afterwards, you can stop at the Petri Spring to cool off and refill your water bottles with fresh spring water.
This route is suitable for cyclists of all levels, with gentle ascents and descents making it accessible and enjoyable. However, be cautious of the sharp stones, as the name “Machairas Forest” lives up to its reputation!
Beyond the forest, the route brings you close to vast olive groves, where the region’s high-quality olive oil from Lythrodontas is produced. A ride that combines natural beauty, history, and authentic flavors of the Cypriot countryside.
The Champion's Route
The route starts from the center of the village of Lythrodontas and crosses beautiful landscapes with pine forests and many scenic viewpoints. The total length of the route is 34.7 kilometers, and it takes approximately 2:45 – 3 hours to complete. The elevation gain is 700 meters, and the difficulty level of the route is moderate, with small uphill and downhill sections, making it accessible and enjoyable for cyclists of all levels. Throughout the route, cyclists will enjoy the natural beauty of the forest and will encounter the abandoned Prophet Elias Monastery, a historical spot ideal for photos and contemplation. The route is circular, and cyclists should follow a counterclockwise direction, starting westward.
The route is mostly on dirt roads, with a few asphalt sections. In the Lythrodontas area, cyclists will have the opportunity to enjoy local taverns offering traditional Cypriot food, cooked with the region’s high-quality olive oil. The route is generally safe, with minimal vehicle traffic and no sharp inclines or descents. However, cyclists should be cautious of sharp stones at certain points along the route, which could affect the tires.
