Despite Cyprus being well-known for its sunny beaches, it also offers excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding. The majestic Troodos Mountain Range attracts winter sports enthusiasts with its snow-covered slopes.
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Ski Season in Cyprus
While the coastal areas of Cyprus experience mild and warm weather with temperatures around 16-18°C in winter, the mountains, starting from an altitude of 1000 meters, provide a winter atmosphere perfect for skiing. The main resort, Mount Olympus, located in the Troodos Nature Reserve, offers everything needed for an active winter holiday.
Mount Olympus
At an altitude of 2000 meters, this resort was developed with support from England and is one of the best winter destinations in Cyprus. The ski season lasts from December to March, with the best months for skiing being January and February. Although Cyprus is not a primary destination for skiing, combining a ski trip with other activities on the island makes it an attractive option for tourists.
Resort Services and Infrastructure
The resort provides all necessary amenities for skiers. The Cyprus Ski Club offers quality equipment as well as individual and group ski and snowboarding lessons. Equipment rental is available at the Sun Valley station, where qualified consultants are ready to help select the right gear. The resort also features a specialized shop with professional equipment, sportswear, and accessories.
Slopes and Lifts
Mount Olympus features nine well-equipped slopes:
- Four slopes on the northern face.
- Five slopes on the Sun Valley side.
The slopes are named after ancient Greek gods:
- Advanced skiers will enjoy the Zeus and Hera slopes on the northern face.
- Beginners and children will find the Aphrodite and Hermes slopes on the Sun Valley side ideal.
The resort is equipped with four lifts:
- Zeus chairlift (380 m).
- Hera T-bar lift (262 m).
- Aphrodite T-bar lift (125 m).
- Hermes T-bar lift (140 m).
Safety is a priority at the resort, with all slopes regularly groomed and maintained.
Ski Pass and Equipment Rental Prices
The resort offers reasonably priced services:
- Lift pass: €10-18.
- Children’s equipment rental: €6-8.
- Adult equipment rental: €10-12.
- Ski boots rental: €7.
- Snowboard boots rental: €20.
- Sledge rental: €5.
The slopes are open daily from 09:00 to 16:00, with hours possibly adjusted in bad weather.
How to Get to the Resort?
Mount Olympus is located 2 km from Troodos and 12 km from Platres. The drive from Limassol or Nicosia takes about an hour. From Limassol, take the B8 highway and follow the signs to Troodos, then continue to the lifts. From Nicosia, take the B9 highway.
Entertainment and Excursions
The resort offers various activities and excursions:
- Veteran Ski Races: At the end of the season, a race is held for former professional skiers and enthusiasts. This evening event creates a festive atmosphere with lights and music.
- Sledding: A popular activity for children.
- Excursion tours to the valley: These offer the chance to visit local taverns, try traditional Cypriot meze and wine, learn to dance sirtaki, and enjoy beautiful sunsets.
Mount Olympus Ski Resort is a unique place where you can enjoy winter sports amidst the Mediterranean atmosphere of Cyprus. Combining active mountain recreation with warm evenings on the coast makes this destination appealing for a diverse and fulfilling vacation.
