Cyprus · Troodos
Larnaca to Paphos via the Troodos Mountains, on gravel roads few maps know.
About this tour
Trans Cyprus Gravel crosses the island from east to west — Larnaca on the coast to Paphos by the sea — via the Troodos range that runs through the interior. Five riding stages, 300 to 375 kilometres, with 5,500 to 8,000 metres of cumulative climbing. A compact, high-quality route through a landscape most cyclists never see.
The first stages climb from the coastal plain through limestone hills and monastery roads into the Troodos, where the high point of the route sits above 1,800 metres among cedar and pine. The air at altitude is cool even in April and the evening light is extraordinary. The gravel roads through the Troodos are largely unknown outside Cyprus — wide, well-graded forest tracks connecting villages that see almost no through traffic.
Cyprus in spring is an overlooked gravel destination. At sea level the temperature is warm and the roads are open. In the Troodos mountains — where the route climbs to nearly 2,000 metres — the air is cooler, the gravel is loose and the views reach all the way down to the coast.
Route overview
300–375 km · 5,500–8,000 m total · Larnaca → Paphos, Cyprus
What you get
Forest roads through the Troodos cedar zone, limestone tracks and coastal headland trails on the Akamas peninsula.
Seven nights in small hotels, from Troodos village guesthouses to a final night in Paphos by the Mediterranean.
Wildflowers on the upper stages, cool air at altitude, warm evenings at sea level. The right month, the right island.
Day by day
A short transfer from Larnaca airport to the start hotel. Arrive by midday for the afternoon intro ride — a relaxed coastal loop to settle in and check the bike — then welcome meeting and dinner.
A long, beautiful climb through windmills and limestone cliffs, past Stavrovouni Monastery and into the interior. The first white-earth tracks and loose gravel arrive early — line choice starts to matter.
Fine gravel roads and long views, through valleys and along ridge lines with glimpses of the north coast. A final climb to the mountain village of Agros — local cooking and quiet in the heights.
The mountain stage, more up than down, gaining altitude into the classic Troodos area where the landscape changes and the air cools. A day that rewards steady cadence and good gearing.
A voluntary highland gravel loop, a shorter ride, or a pure rest day with a walk and a café. Based close to Mount Olympos, the options are many. Reload before the final two stages.
The reward for the climbing: long descents, fast gravel and constantly changing landscapes through valleys and forest, closing with a final climb up to Lysos.
Forest, open landscapes and coastal sections as the Mediterranean closes in — a route chosen for the experience, not the most direct line. The waterfront at Paphos completes the crossing.
Bus to Larnaca airport on Saturday morning (about 2 hours). With an evening flight, join the voluntary top-to-sea bonus — back up to Troodos for one long connected descent to the coast.
How we ride
Follow the guide across the passes and long descents. The support vehicle is positioned at key points, navigation and logistics are handled — you focus on the riding.
Load the day's route and set off when you're ready — you control the breaks and stops. The crew is positioned along the route and meets you at the hotel each evening.
Every tour is run in English — guiding, daily briefings, route notes and all documents are in English.
What's included
Common questions
Distances are moderate, but there's real climbing — the route reaches near 2,000 m. The Adventure route suits riders comfortable with 3–4 hours in the saddle over consecutive days; the Explorer route adds distance and elevation and the confidence to navigate loose gravel independently.
A gravel bike (mechanical or e-assist), or a light MTB with suitable tyres and gearing — road bikes and hybrids aren't suitable. Minimum 38 mm tyres (wider is better), tubeless strongly recommended for the rocky limestone tracks, and a low gear around 0.9 for the climbs. Have it freshly serviced before you travel.
Rental isn't readily available in Cyprus, so we recommend bringing your own bike as checked baggage — a good hard case makes the trip more straightforward. Get in touch if you'd like guidance.
Both, daily. An English-speaking guide leads each day, and GPS files (Garmin, Wahoo, Komoot) let you ride at your own pace. The support crew is always nearby and meets you at each hotel.
The support vehicle carries tools, spares and a spare bike, and the guides help with repairs — you only pay for parts. On Explorer stages you may be further from the vehicle, so be able to handle a puncture or chain issue yourself.
Most of our riders are 45–65. Moderate daily distances, a genuine rest day and the option of the support vehicle help, though the mountain stages have real climbing. Cycling fitness and multi-day experience matter more than age.
Yes — many riders come solo. Groups are up to 10 per guide and typically international. Accommodation is a shared double room by default; a single-room supplement is available.
Before you go
Fly to Larnaca (LCA) — direct flights from some Northern European cities and one-stop connections via several airlines. The start hotel is about 10 minutes from Larnaca airport; the arrival transfer is at your own expense (we can recommend a local taxi). The return transfer to Larnaca on the final morning is included.
Bring a gravel bike (mechanical or e-assist) or a light MTB with suitable tyres and gearing — road bikes and hybrids aren't suitable. Minimum 38 mm tyres (40–45 mm better), tubeless strongly recommended, and a low gear around 0.9 for the steeper climbs. Have it freshly serviced before you travel and carry a spare tube. Rental can be arranged through a local partner — ask when you book.
Comprehensive travel and accident insurance — including medical cover and repatriation — is required and not included. Take out cover that includes cycling before you travel; ask us if you'd like a recommendation.
April is warm at the coast but cool in the Troodos — the route climbs near 2,000 m — so a light packable layer and warm gloves earn their place. Tubeless tyres handle the rocky limestone tracks. Towels and toiletries are provided; bring comfortable walking shoes and something smart-casual for dinner.
Intermediate — challenging. This tour is graded Explore & Adventure. You don't need to race, but you should be comfortable riding back-to-back days on mixed terrain. A good benchmark is 70–80 km with 1,000–1,200 m of climbing with energy to spare. See our levels page, or get in touch if you're unsure.
When to go
| Dates | Availability | Price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | ||
| 24 Apr – 1 May 2027 | Open | From €2,830 |
Per person, shared room. Single supplement on request. A deposit secures your place; the balance is due 60 days before departure.
Private & group tours
A cycling club, a group of friends or colleagues — we can arrange a private departure on dates that suit you, same route and same support, just your own group. We also run fully custom private tours for smaller groups.
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