If you’re looking to leave behind the beach resorts and dive into something truly local, this full-day tour into Cyprus’s mountain villages offers a genuine taste of mountain life, culinary traditions, and stunning scenery. Although it’s a guided experience, it feels more like visiting friends who happen to be expert hosts—welcoming, knowledgeable, and eager to share their culture.
What we love about this tour is the interactive cheese-making workshop—making halloumi and anari with a local family is a rare treat—and the authentic village atmospheres you’ll encounter along the way. The carefully curated brunch and cheese tastings give you a real flavor of Cyprus’s culinary identity, and the mountain vistas are picture-perfect.
One thing to consider: the tour is quite packed, with multiple stops in a single day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule. While the size is limited to just six participants, making it more intimate, it might not be ideal if you prefer a more leisurely pace. Still, if you’re eager to see unspoiled villages, learn how local cheeses are made, and try regional specialties, this tour hits the spot.
This experience is perfect for food lovers, culture seekers, and those wanting to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s especially good if you enjoy hands-on activities and authentic interactions with locals.
Key Points
- Authentic experience of cheese-making in a local Cypriot village
- Stunning mountain scenery throughout the trip
- Limited small group size (max 6 participants) for a more personal experience
- Tastings of cheeses, local products, and regional specialties
- Beautiful, traditional villages rich in character and history
- Flexible pickup options from various towns in Cyprus
An In-Depth Look at the Tour
This tour offers a well-rounded day packed with delicious food, scenic views, and cultural insights. It begins with the convenience of hotel pickup—whether from Ayia Napa, Protaras, Limassol, Nicosia, Paphos, or Larnaca—making transportation one less thing to worry about. Once onboard, you relax as you traverse into Cyprus’s Troodos mountain range, famous for its lush landscapes and traditional villages.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Limassol District.
The Cheese-Making Workshop
The highlight? A hands-on workshop in a local village where you actually get to make halloumi and anari cheeses. This isn’t a scripted demonstration but an interactive experience that allows you to learn the process directly from locals—something that reviewers repeatedly praise. One guest raved, “Georgina was wonderful, the halloumi making with Loulla was nice, and I really enjoyed the places we visited,” highlighting how genuine and friendly the hosts are.
Making cheese is fun and surprisingly straightforward; you’ll get your hands in the mix and see firsthand how Cyprus’s iconic cheeses are crafted. Afterward, you’ll taste some of the freshest cheeses you’ve ever had, paired with regional honey, olive oil, and perhaps some donkey milk. The taste of fresh, homemade cheese is a world apart from supermarket varieties, and many reviewers mention the joy of bringing home some to share.
Village Exploration
Following cheese-making, the tour ventures into traditional villages, where time seems to slow down. Streets are narrow, stone buildings are weathered but charming, and the locals go about their day with a welcoming smile. Reviewers mention how these stops are more than just tourist attractions—they’re real communities, offering a glimpse into a way of life that’s persisted for generations.
Scenic Mountain Drive and Bonus Stops
The drive itself is a treat, with sweeping views of mountain peaks, pine forests, and terraced fields. Along the way, the guide makes three additional stops, each designed for tasting local products—think olive oil, honey, and regional wines. There’s a balance of tasting and sightseeing, making sure your palate gets as much attention as your eyes.
More Great Tours NearbyBrunch and Tastings
The culmination is the traditional Cypriot brunch, served in a cozy village setting. It’s a hearty spread that includes a variety of cheeses, bread, and local specialties. Reviewers consistently mention how plentiful and flavorful the brunch is, providing excellent value especially considering the cheese-making experience and multiple tastings included.
Transportation and Group Size
The brand new, clean bus with water and hand sanitizer adds a level of comfort and safety, especially important in today’s travel climate. Limiting the group to just 6 participants ensures a more personalized experience—your guide can answer questions, tailor the stops slightly if needed, and create a more relaxed atmosphere.
Cost and Value
While the exact price isn’t listed here, the inclusions—transport, cheese-making, brunch, multiple tastings, and a knowledgeable guide—offer a compelling value. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the quality of the food, the friendliness of the hosts, and the scenic beauty for the price.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re passionate about food, particularly cheese, and want to see how it’s made in a traditional way, this trip is perfect. It’s also well-suited for cultural explorers who enjoy wandering through historic villages and learning about local life. The scenic mountain backdrop makes it ideal for nature lovers eager for pretty views and photo opportunities.
Be aware that the full-day schedule can be quite active, so it’s best for those comfortable with a packed itinerary. If you prefer spending more time in one place or dislike guided tours, this might not be your first choice. But for those who want a balanced day of tasting, learning, and exploring, it’s a standout.
Final Thoughts
This tour delivers a genuine slice of Cyprus, blending culinary tradition, scenic beauty, and authentic village life into one memorable day. The opportunity to make cheese with locals is a highlight that many travelers will cherish, while the regional tastings and mountain vistas elevate the experience beyond simple sightseeing.
The small group size and friendly guides ensure an intimate, engaging atmosphere, making it ideal for curious travelers who like to get off the beaten path. It’s a smart choice for foodies, culture buffs, and nature enthusiasts looking for a deep dive into Cypriot life.
If you want a tour that combines hands-on activities, beautiful scenery, and genuine local interactions at a reasonable price, this one checks all the boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the cheese-making workshop, a traditional brunch with cheese tastings, three additional stops for tasting local products, and drinks.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with a flexible start time depending on your pickup location. Confirmed pickup times are emailed the afternoon before.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as some walking in villages is involved. It’s advised to eat breakfast before the tour to enjoy the full experience.
Can I join if I am staying outside the listed pickup towns?
If you’re staying in a rural location, it’s best to contact the tour provider directly to see if they can accommodate you. Otherwise, pickups are available in Ayia Napa, Protaras, Limassol, Nicosia, Paphos, and Larnaca.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities are generally family-friendly, especially since it involves making cheese and tasting regional foods. Check with the provider if traveling with young children.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour offers flexibility for changing plans.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should know about?
The tour features plenty of cheese and regional products. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to communicate with the tour provider beforehand.
In Closing
All in all, this Cyprus: Mountain Towns and Cheesemaking Day Trip with Brunch provides an engaging, flavorful, and scenic day out that goes beyond typical sightseeing. It’s a wonderful way to connect with local traditions, enjoy delicious regional foods, and see the beautiful mountain villages that often remain hidden from travelers. Perfect for travelers eager for an authentic taste of Cyprus in a friendly, small-group setting.
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