Walk in Omodos alleys & around Kelephos medieval Venetian bridge

The rather busy Omodos village is found in a prime wine producing area of Cyprus. The village offers an excellent example of Cyprus rural architecture and a collection of attractions (eg traditional man powered grape press). At its center one finds the historic monastery of the Holly Cross (dating back to the second century AD. According to tradition it was visited by St Helen in the third century AD; she left a piece of the rope used in Christ's Crucifixion there - sadly the monastery does not operate any more). For us Omodos is a meeting and a resting place (at it has good public restrooms and various tourist amenities). It takes upto thirty mintues by car to move between Platy Valley and Omodos village.

It lies inside the expansive Paphos Forest, home to a few thousands of wild sheep (mouflon). According to tradition the bridge is found on a path that was used by camel caravans to transport mined material to Paphos port for export. Depending on time availability we may do a walk at the bridge and the nearby valley of Platy, sttop for a meal at a village restaurant, go for a winetasting session or visit other attractions on the itinerary. The trip is customisable. Possible Walks: If travellers are interested and we have time we may do a walk at Kelephos Medieval Venetian Bridge and the nearby Platy Valley.

The walk is customizable, from a few km, going easily upto twenty km. The longest walk inside the shaded valley would be about sixteen km. The walk in the Valley is on a dirt road next to the stream (the sound of running water that is flowing all year round, is soothing). The negative fact is that we will most probably meet some cars on the dirt road, many of which are Safari cars goings through the Valley towards Kykkos monastery Winter walks have the advantage of more water in the stream and fewer cars in the valley. On the other hand, towards summer Platy valley becomes lush, which compensates for the decrease in the stream flow and the relative traffic. Walkers may see many pine and plane trees, an abundance of bracken and even fig trees. It is possible to encounter frogs, fresh water crabs or moufflon in the valley.