Teisia tis Madaris (The Walls of Madari)
A cliff-hugging ridge walk on the roof of Cyprus, with the whole island falling away beneath your boots.
Looping around the summit crown of Adelfoi mountain at roughly 1,600 m, Teisia tis Madaris (the walls of Madari) is one of the most photographed nature trails on the island. The name refers to the tall, sheer cliffs the path threads beneath, part of the Troodos Geopark’s volcanic geology. It is compact but dramatic, and links into the wider Madari trail network.
What you’ll see
- Sweeping views over the Mesaoria plain and Morphou Bay
- Dramatic pillow-lava cliffs and pinnacles
- Madari fire lookout station at the high point
- Endemic flora: Troodos catmint, golden oak, Cyprus crocus
- Connects to the Doxa si o Theos and Selladi tou Karamanli routes
The walk
Start near the Madari fire lookout tower and follow the marked path as it curls around the flank of Adelfoi peak. The trail hugs the base of the famous cliffs, weaving among boulders and stands of black pine while the ground drops steeply away to the north. Keep an eye out for Bonelli’s eagles riding the thermals and Cyprus warblers in the low scrub. After circling the summit block the path returns you close to your start, or you can carry on to link with the neighbouring Madari trails for a longer day.
Getting there
Drive to the Madari fire lookout station above Chandria/Polystypos; the last stretch is a signed dirt road off the Chandria–Polystypos road. Park at the small clearing by the tower. Get directions →
Good to know before you go
There is no shade or water on the ridge, so carry your own; the cliff edges are unfenced, so keep well back, especially in wind or mist.