Larnaca region , located in the central-eastern part of Cyprus, is known not only for its beaches and ancient monasteries but also for the revival of winemaking traditions dating back to antiquity. Wineries around Larnaca boast an intimate atmosphere, a family-run approach, and an emphasis on quality over quantity. Wines are born here that reflect the character of the Cypriot land—sunny, fertile, and generous.
Contents
- 1 The History of Winemaking in the Larnaca Region
- 2 Features of terroir and grape varieties
- 3 Wineries worth checking out
- 4 Wine routes and gastronomic tourism
- 5 Best time to visit
- 6 Tips for tourists
- 7 The History of Winemaking in the Larnaca Region
- 8 Features of terroir and grape varieties
- 9 Wineries worth checking out
- 10 Wine routes and gastronomic tourism
- 11 Best time to visit
- 12 Tips for tourists
The History of Winemaking in the Larnaca Region
Viticulture in Larnaca dates back thousands of years. In ancient times, the Kition region ( ancient Larnaca) was a hub of maritime trade, supplying wine, olive oil, and honey. Archaeological finds indicate that small wineries existed on the slopes surrounding the city as early as the 4th century BC.
After a period of decline associated with Ottoman rule, winemaking in Larnaca flourished again in the 19th century, when Cypriot families began reviving traditions and growing grapes for the local market. Today, the region’s wineries combine traditional production methods with modern technology, preserving the unique character of local varieties.
Features of terroir and grape varieties
The Larnaca region boasts a variety of microclimates. The coastline enjoys a mild and warm climate, while the elevated areas west of the city enjoy cooler conditions, ideal for white grape varieties. The main local varieties include:
- Xynisteri is a light white variety that produces fresh and aromatic wines.
- Mavro is a traditional Cypriot red variety with soft fruity notes.
- Maratheftiko is a rare indigenous variety distinguished by its rich colour and complex flavour .
- Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are international varieties that have successfully adapted to the region’s climate.
Larnaca wines are distinguished by a balance between freshness and depth of flavour, as well as a distinctly Cypriot character.
Wineries worth checking out
Ktima Christoudia Winery
One of the region’s most renowned wineries, located in the village of Kato Drifos , approximately 30 kilometers from Larnaca . The winery was founded in 1992 and is run by the Christoudia family . It produces wines from local and international varieties, including the popular Xynisteri , Maratheftiko , and Cabernet. Sauvignon and Muscat .
The winery boasts a tasting room, a winemaking museum, and a small restaurant serving Cypriot cuisine.
Dafermou Winery
of Lefkara and Kato Drifos , this modern winery combines innovation with respect for tradition. The building’s architecture blends harmoniously into the landscape, and a panoramic terrace overlooks the vineyards. Dafermou wines are known for their pure style and balanced flavors. They create white and rosé wines from Xynisteri , Sauvignon, and other grape varieties. Blanc , Shiraz and Cabernet Franc .
Ktima Dafermou and Lefkara Route
Larnaca’s official wine routes passes near the winery , leading through the picturesque mountain villages of Lefkara , Vavla , and Kato Dryfos . In this region, you can combine tastings with strolls through narrow streets and a visit to the Lefkara lace workshops. Lace ” and the purchase of local delicacies – olive oil and honey.
Aes Ambelis Winery
Situated just north, between Larnaca and Nicosia, this winery is among the most respected on the island. It places a strong emphasis on organic grape cultivation and sustainable production methods. Its selection includes red wines from Mavro and Shiraz , white wines from Xynisteri and Semillon , and signature blends. Tastings are held in a modern room overlooking the vineyards and rolling hills.
Kyperounda Winery (towards the mountains from Larnaca )
Although the winery is formally part of the Limassol region , it is only an hour and a half drive from Larnaca and is often included in the itineraries of tourists staying at coastal hotels . Situated at an altitude of over 1,000 meters, it is considered one of the highest wineries in Europe. It produces premium wines such as Petritis , Andessitis , and Commandaria , distinguished by their freshness and distinctive aroma.
Wine routes and gastronomic tourism
The Cyprus Department of Tourism has developed the official ” Larnaca – Lefkara Wine Route , ” which connects several wineries, rural taverns, and artisan workshops. This route is ideal for travelers looking to experience traditional Cypriot village life, sample homemade cheeses, sausages, olives, and, of course, locally produced wines.
sommelier- led tastings , vineyard walks, and explanations of production techniques. Some wineries offer interactive masterclasses where guests can try their hand at being a winemaker or harvesting grapes during the harvest season.
Best time to visit
visit the wineries of the Larnaca region year-round, but the best time is from April to October, when the vineyards are covered in greenery and the weather is perfect for hiking in the hills. In the fall, in September, the harvest begins, and the villages host wine festivals —colorful celebrations with music, dancing, and tastings.
The region is especially beautiful in spring: fields are covered in flowers, the air is filled with the scent of herbs, and the temperature is comfortable for strolling. In winter, most wineries remain open, offering cozy tastings by the fireplace.
Tips for tourists
Before your trip, it’s best to contact the winery in advance to book a tour—most operate on a customized schedule. Renting a car is recommended, as public transportation between the villages is poor. Wine tastings offer wine at factory prices, and some wineries offer international delivery.
It is also worth paying attention to the combination of wine with local cuisine: white wines go well with seafood, pink wines with meat dishes and meze appetizers , and red wines with traditional halloumi , lamb and olive tapenade .
Wineries near Larnaca offer not only an opportunity to sample high-quality Cypriot wines but also a chance to experience a culture shaped over centuries. Family-run wineries, picturesque hills, ancient villages, and genuine hospitality create an atmosphere that makes a wine tour of Larnaca truly special.
Every bottle of Cypriot wine is a reflection of the sun, the land, and the work of the winemakers, and a journey along the region’s wine routes becomes an immersion into the true soul of the island. Larnaca’s wineries blend ancient traditions and modernity, preserving the authentic taste of Cyprus—bright, sunny, and unique.
Larnaca region , located in the central-eastern part of Cyprus, is known not only for its beaches and ancient monasteries but also for the revival of winemaking traditions dating back to antiquity. Wineries around Larnaca boast an intimate atmosphere, a family-run approach, and an emphasis on quality over quantity. Wines are born here that reflect the character of the Cypriot land—sunny, fertile, and generous.
The History of Winemaking in the Larnaca Region
Viticulture in Larnaca dates back thousands of years. In ancient times, the Kition region ( ancient Larnaca) was a hub of maritime trade, supplying wine, olive oil, and honey. Archaeological finds indicate that small wineries existed on the slopes surrounding the city as early as the 4th century BC.
After a period of decline associated with Ottoman rule, winemaking in Larnaca flourished again in the 19th century, when Cypriot families began reviving traditions and growing grapes for the local market. Today, the region’s wineries combine traditional production methods with modern technology, preserving the unique character of local varieties.
Features of terroir and grape varieties
The Larnaca region boasts a variety of microclimates. The coastline enjoys a mild and warm climate, while the elevated areas west of the city enjoy cooler conditions, ideal for white grape varieties. The main local varieties include:
- Xynisteri is a light white variety that produces fresh and aromatic wines.
- Mavro is a traditional Cypriot red variety with soft fruity notes.
- Maratheftiko is a rare indigenous variety distinguished by its rich colour and complex flavour .
- Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are international varieties that have successfully adapted to the region’s climate.
Larnaca wines are distinguished by a balance between freshness and depth of flavour, as well as a distinctly Cypriot character.
Wineries worth checking out
Ktima Christoudia Winery
One of the region’s most renowned wineries, located in the village of Kato Drifos , approximately 30 kilometers from Larnaca . The winery was founded in 1992 and is run by the Christoudia family . It produces wines from local and international varieties, including the popular Xynisteri , Maratheftiko , and Cabernet. Sauvignon and Muscat .
The winery boasts a tasting room, a winemaking museum, and a small restaurant serving Cypriot cuisine.
Dafermou Winery
of Lefkara and Kato Drifos , this modern winery combines innovation with respect for tradition. The building’s architecture blends harmoniously into the landscape, and a panoramic terrace overlooks the vineyards. Dafermou wines are known for their pure style and balanced flavors. They create white and rosé wines from Xynisteri , Sauvignon, and other grape varieties. Blanc , Shiraz and Cabernet Franc .
Ktima Dafermou and Lefkara Route
Larnaca’s official wine routes passes near the winery , leading through the picturesque mountain villages of Lefkara , Vavla , and Kato Dryfos . In this region, you can combine tastings with strolls through narrow streets and a visit to the Lefkara lace workshops. Lace ” and the purchase of local delicacies – olive oil and honey.
Aes Ambelis Winery
Situated just north, between Larnaca and Nicosia, this winery is among the most respected on the island. It places a strong emphasis on organic grape cultivation and sustainable production methods. Its selection includes red wines from Mavro and Shiraz , white wines from Xynisteri and Semillon , and signature blends. Tastings are held in a modern room overlooking the vineyards and rolling hills.
Kyperounda Winery (towards the mountains from Larnaca )
Although the winery is formally part of the Limassol region , it is only an hour and a half drive from Larnaca and is often included in the itineraries of tourists staying at coastal hotels . Situated at an altitude of over 1,000 meters, it is considered one of the highest wineries in Europe. It produces premium wines such as Petritis , Andessitis , and Commandaria , distinguished by their freshness and distinctive aroma.
Wine routes and gastronomic tourism
The Cyprus Department of Tourism has developed the official ” Larnaca – Lefkara Wine Route , ” which connects several wineries, rural taverns, and artisan workshops. This route is ideal for travelers looking to experience traditional Cypriot village life, sample homemade cheeses, sausages, olives, and, of course, locally produced wines.
sommelier- led tastings , vineyard walks, and explanations of production techniques. Some wineries offer interactive masterclasses where guests can try their hand at being a winemaker or harvesting grapes during the harvest season.
Best time to visit
visit the wineries of the Larnaca region year-round, but the best time is from April to October, when the vineyards are covered in greenery and the weather is perfect for hiking in the hills. In the fall, in September, the harvest begins, and the villages host wine festivals —colorful celebrations with music, dancing, and tastings.
The region is especially beautiful in spring: fields are covered in flowers, the air is filled with the scent of herbs, and the temperature is comfortable for strolling. In winter, most wineries remain open, offering cozy tastings by the fireplace.
Tips for tourists
Before your trip, it’s best to contact the winery in advance to book a tour—most operate on a customized schedule. Renting a car is recommended, as public transportation between the villages is poor. Wine tastings offer wine at factory prices, and some wineries offer international delivery.
It is also worth paying attention to the combination of wine with local cuisine: white wines go well with seafood, pink wines with meat dishes and meze appetizers , and red wines with traditional halloumi , lamb and olive tapenade .
Wineries near Larnaca offer not only an opportunity to sample high-quality Cypriot wines but also a chance to experience a culture shaped over centuries. Family-run wineries, picturesque hills, ancient villages, and genuine hospitality create an atmosphere that makes a wine tour of Larnaca truly special.
Every bottle of Cypriot wine is a reflection of the sun, the land, and the work of the winemakers, and a journey along the region’s wine routes becomes an immersion into the true soul of the island. Larnaca’s wineries blend ancient traditions and modernity, preserving the authentic taste of Cyprus—bright, sunny, and unique.
