Kionia – Profitis Ilias Trail
A long downhill traverse through the wild pine country of Machairas Forest to a hilltop chapel.
This linear route drops through the Machairas National Forest Park, a Natura 2000 site on the eastern edge of the Troodos massif in the Nicosia district. Beginning high at the Kionia picnic site (1,251 m) it descends steadily to around 677 m, opening up long views across the Mesaoria plain toward Nicosia. It is a favourite for walkers who want solitude and forest rather than crowds.
What you’ll see
- Panoramas over the Mesaoria plain and the capital
- Dense Calabrian pine and endemic understorey
- Chance of foxes, eagles and shy Cyprus wildlife
- Peaceful Machairas monastery region nearby
- Spring water fountain at the Kionia trailhead
The walk
From the Kionia picnic site the trail sets off gently before committing to a long, mostly downhill line through pine forest and open rocky slopes. The gradient is easy underfoot for much of the way but steepens noticeably toward the end, so take care on loose stone. Views open repeatedly to the north over the plain, and the forest is alive with birdsong in spring. The path finishes near Lythrodontas, so arrange a pick-up or a second car unless you plan to climb back up.
Getting there
The trailhead is at the Kionia picnic site, reached from the Machairas monastery road; there is parking and water at the picnic ground. Get directions →
Good to know before you go
It is a one-way linear route ending far below the start, so plan transport at the Lythrodontas end; the final steep descent is hard on the knees, so poles help.