Agia Marina – Xyliatos Dam MTB / Gravel
Cycling Routes
Agia Marina - Xyliatos Dam MTB / Gravel
- 02:47
- 17.8 mi
- 6.4 mph
- 1,950 ft
- 1,950 ft
The route begins in the picturesque village of Agia Marina, where the beautiful stone-built church greets you. Just 40 kilometers from Nicosia, the village is nestled within the forest at an altitude of 450 meters, making it the perfect starting point for cycling year-round.
Leaving behind the narrow, traditional village streets, your route leads you along well-maintained dirt roads. After a few kilometers, you will reach the Kapoura picnic area, where you can make your first stop for a break. Here, you will find drinking water and a captivating natural environment that invites you to relax.
The climb to the highest point of the route, at 625 meters, presents a gradual challenge, while the view from the top rewards every effort. Descending towards the Xyliatos dam, the sight of the dam surrounded by dense forest and majestic mountains will take your breath away. The landscape resembles an alpine postcard and is perfect for photos that will keep the memory of your experience alive.
Before reaching the dam, you may need to dismount to navigate some steep small descents, which add a touch of adventure to your ride. Then, crossing the dam, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the unique view and relax in the tranquility of the landscape.
The return to Agia Marina offers a pleasant, smooth experience. However, if you wish to extend your connection with nature, you can choose to stay a little longer at the picnic area below the dam, enjoying the peacefulness of the forest.
A route full of nature, charm, and tranquility that promises to captivate you!
Off-road / Gravel / Mountain Biking
The route starts from the center of the picturesque village of Agia Marina, where you’ll be welcomed by the beautiful stone church. It covers a distance of 28.6 km with an elevation gain of 590 meters and is expected to take around 2 to 2.5 hours. The terrain is primarily gravel, with some stretches on asphalt, and the route consists of moderate difficulty with small ascents and descents.
As you cycle, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, including pine trees and scenic viewpoints. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the church of Agia Marina and admire the ancient olive trees, some of which date back to the 15th century. The route follows a circular path, and it is recommended to travel counterclockwise, heading west initially.
The route is generally safe, with little traffic, though you may encounter some steep ascents and descents. For those looking for a peaceful, nature-filled cycling experience, this route offers an ideal blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and a tranquil atmosphere.
