Platres village existed during the reigns of the Lusignians (Frankish rule, 1192-1489 AD) and the Venetians (1489-1571 AD), with a long history dating back to the Middle Ages.

The village is constructed in an amphitheatric fashion, with an average altitude of 1200 metres. The location and altitude at which the village is constructed are both regarded as ideal, which explains why the village enjoys an ideal climate. Summers are characterised by arid conditions, with minimal to no humidity and temperatures significantly lower than in urban areas.

In 1878, the British discovered the special natural beauties of Platres and they invested in turning the area into a holiday resort. The village acquired a cosmopolitan character and welcomed Cypriots, international personas, members of the royal families from Egypt, Greece and the UK, diplomats, aristocrats, great authors and poets.

An extensive list of notable individuals includes King Farouk of Egypt, Daphne De Maurier, the renowned author Daphne Seferis, Princess Mary and Prince George of England, Princess Irene of Greece, Prime Minister of Malta Mintoff, Chancellor of West Germany Willy Pradt, Prime Minister of India Indira Gandhi, and actor Teli Savalas.

The largest mountain range in Cyprus stretching across a third of the island, is the Troodos mountains. Located at the western side of Cyprus, its highest peak is 1,952 meters high. A cool escape during the summer months at the green heart of the island and a snow filled winter destination with four ski slopes.

Hidden away in the deep forest of the Troodos mountain area, are picturesque wonders of nature. Explore the forest and admire cascading waters at one of the waterfalls (Kaledonia, Xantara, Milomeris, Mesa Potamos), journey along a nature trail and uncover paradisiac locations surrounded by pine trees and golden oaks. Admire the waterfalls, accompanied by the nightingale melodies and the exhilarating aromas of the setting.

Troodos is also an appealing mountain bike arena! As a Mediterranean island, Cyprus is blessed with sunshine throughout the year and stays shy of headwinds, making the mountain region a biker’s paradise. Explore rapid changes in terrain and scenery, from rocky to clay and steep to flat. Find a number of bike centers dotted throughout the island offering rental service, route information, guide, assistance and support.

In an island with 10 thousand years of history, the Troodos mountain range possesses numerous unique and culturally significant Ecclesiastical, Folk Art and Wine Museums where the visitor can explore history and travel in time.

Traverse the Troodos forest and discover both quaint and majestic churches painted with vibrant frescoes, pristine Byzantine art and traditional architecture, dating from the 11th to the 17th century. Unearth ten of them belonging on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

With a history in wine making dating back to the Bronze age, Cyprus has been in the forefront of wine production for over 5,000 years. The Mediterranean climate and the fertile slopes of the Troodos mountain range create the ideal environment for vineyards to blossom. The development of indigenous varieties as well as the cultivation of other grape varieties, warrants the creation of exquisite wine. Throughout the southern slopes of Troodos basking in the Mediterranean sun, discover wineries ready to offer culture and history in a glass. Take the chance to admire natural beauty, meet locals and explore rural life.

Visit Troodos Geopark Visitor Centre in Amiantos and the Troodos National Forest Park Visitor Centre in Troodos to find out how the Troodos mountain range rose from the sea and became the green heart of the island.