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Laona Plateau
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Mountain
The Laona Plateau is located in the Paphos hinterland, forming a distinct transition zone between the Akamas Highlands and the foothills of the Troodos Mountains. Sitting at an average elevation of 400 to 600 meters, the plateau enjoys a cooler microclimate that is convenient for high-altitude viticulture. The landscape is characterized by open plains, terraced vineyards, and traditional stone-built villages such as Kathikas and Arodes. Geologically, the plateau consists of massive limestone formations renowned for their Miocene-era fossil deposits. The region is a primary hub for the cultivation of the Xynisteri grape, producing some of the island's finest white wines. Historically, the plateau served as a vital agricultural stronghold, with deep ravines dropping toward the sea providing natural defenses. Today, the Laona region is a leader in sustainable tourism and agrotourism, focusing on the preservation of vernacular architecture and longstanding winemaking traditions.
- Location: Cyprus
- Top sights: Akamas Geology and Paleontology Information Centre · Inna-Lara Turtle Museum · Ancient Laundry
- Nearby: Latchi (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 12 | 14 | 17 | 20 | 24 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 22 | 17 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 89 | 55 | 33 | 18 | 13 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 10 | 27 | 43 | 92 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The plateau is typically reached by ascending the regional roads that climb from the coastal areas toward the elevated villages. A vehicle with good clearance can be highly advantageous when navigating the rougher dirt tracks leading to viewpoints.
Best season
Spring is highly celebrated here for its sweeping wildflower displays and comfortably crisp walking weather. Autumn provides exceptionally clear skies for coastal views, whereas summer is notably dry, dusty, and intensely hot.
Terrain & paths
The area has a relatively flat, elevated landscape that abruptly drops off towards the spectacular Akamas Peninsula below. Visitors can expect wide-open dirt tracks, rocky grazing lands, and sparse Mediterranean scrub vegetation.
What to bring
Sturdy walking shoes or light hiking boots are recommended for dealing with the stony dirt tracks across the plateau. Because the elevation has little shelter from the wind or sun, a windbreaker and strong sunblock are essential items.
Parking
The most practical and polite approach is to park in the central squares or designated edges of the local plateau villages. From these village hubs, visitors can easily embark on foot or drive cautiously onto the wider agricultural tracks.
Safety
While the plateau itself is mostly level, visitors must exercise extreme caution near the sudden, dramatic cliff edges overlooking the coast. The remote nature of the area also means visitors should be entirely self-sufficient regarding water and first aid.
Time needed
A typical exploratory visit ranges from two to four hours, allowing enough time to hike to the prime panoramic viewpoints. Many visitors extend their stay to enjoy a traditional meal in one of the quaint local villages situated on the plateau.
Geography
Facts
- The plateau's average elevation ranges from 400 to 600 meters.
- Kathikas is celebrated as one of the premier wine villages in the region.
- Fossilized coral reefs have been discovered within the plateau's limestone.
- The area is famous for its high-quality Xynisteri white wine production.
- The plateau offers sweeping panoramic views over the Bay of Polis.
- Traditional wells in Laona villages date back to antiquity in some cases.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Laona Plateau (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Laona Plateau known for?
It is famous for its wine villages and the cultivation of local grape varieties like Xynisteri.
Are there wineries to visit there?
Yes, villages like Kathikas offer many small wineries with tastings.
How is the climate on the plateau?
It is cooler than the coast, making it very pleasant in mid-summer.
Can you stay overnight there?
There are welcoming boutique hotels and traditional stone houses in the villages.
How far is it from Paphos?
By car, the drive takes about 30 to 40 minutes uphill.
Laona Plateau: where is it located?
Laona Plateau is located in Cyprus.
Laona Plateau: what is there to see?
Highlights include Akamas Geology and Paleontology Information Centre, Inna-Lara Turtle Museum, Ancient Laundry.
Laona Plateau: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Laona Plateau: why is it worth visiting?
The Laona Plateau is located in the Paphos hinterland, forming a distinct transition zone between the Akamas Highlands and the foothills of the Troodos Mountains.
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