There are plenty of charming villages to discover in the Troodos Mountains and Kakopetria is definitely one of them. Compared to other mountain villages, however, Kakopetria can be quite busy; during my visit, the place was swarming with students. I have no idea if that’s always the case, but I really enjoyed escaping the crowds for a short nature walk just outside the village. The perfect trail isn’t hard to find: the Vateri Trail (also known as the Vateris Nature Trail), a short and pleasant walk along the Clarios River.
Where does the Vateri Trail in Kakopetria start?
You can start the Vateri Trail either from the north or the south side. We began at the northern end, in Kakopetria. On Makariou III Ave, at a bend in the road near the Kakopetria waterfalls, there’s a small bridge with water running beneath it. Just to the right of the stream, you’ll spot a colourful little restaurant, Colours Crêperie Yard. Follow the path next to it; you’ll immediately see a sign with information about the Vateri Trail. Before long, you’ll pass The Mill Hotel, which marks the beginning of the walking trail. Keep the hotel on your right, head straight and keep the water on your left. A small set of stairs takes you past an old mill. Its remains are still visible inside the small building on your right. And there you are, ready to enjoy the Vateri Trail.
A lovely short walk in Kakopetria
The trail isn’t long, walking it there and back adds up to around 2.2 kilometres. You’ll find some circular routes online but most of those seem outdated. I’ve read several reports mentioning overgrown and impassable sections. That said, walking the Vateri Trail out and back is no punishment at all, especially with the narrow Clarios River winding beside you. I’m here in November, when nature puts on a beautiful autumn show. Many trees have already shed their leaves, but there are still plenty of scenic spots perfect for cosy photos. I can imagine it’s lush and green here in summer. And probably a lot busier too! In November, it’s wonderfully peaceful. I only come across two other people along the way.
Combine this walk with more beauty in the area
There’s plenty more to see around Kakopetria, making it easy to turn this walk into a lovely day out. One highlight is Agios Nikolaos Tis Stegis, an 11th-century monastery church listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also find several picturesque villages in the Troodos Mountains that are well worth a visit. Prefer heading back towards the coast? Don’t miss the unique Venetian bridges and the small church of Saint Nicholas, which is regularly submerged, with only its bell tower visible above water. Along the coast, there are plenty of sights to explore; from the shipwreck near Paphos and the Limni Pier in the northwest to the Bridge of Love in the south. That last one can easily be combined with a stop at the abandoned village of Agios Sozomenos, not far from the capital Nicosia. There’s no shortage of things to see and do in Cyprus!
