Mountains, Dams & Nature
🏔 Mountains of Cyprus
There are two main mountain systems on the island.
1. Troodos (Τρόοδος / Troodos)
Occupies the central and southwestern part of the island.
This is the "green heart" of Cyprus, consisting of volcanic rocks (ophiolite complex).
- Highest point: Mount Olympus (Όλυμπος / Olympus) or Chionistra (Chionistra).
- Height: 1952 m.
- Interesting fact: In winter there is a ski resort here, and in summer it is the best place to escape the heat.
2. Pentadaktylos (Πενταδάκτυλος / Pentadaktylos)
A mountain range in the north (occupied), also known as the Kyrenia Mountains.
- Name: Means "Five-fingered" (Πέντε = five, Δάκτυλο = finger) due to the characteristic shape of one of the peaks.
- Rock type: Limestone (unlike the volcanic Troodos).
- Key castles: The castles of Saint Hilarion, Buffavento and Kantara are located on the peaks of this range.
📍 In the exam: What is the name of the highest mountain in Cyprus?
Answer: Olympus (Olympus) in the Troodos mountains.
💧 Water: Dams and Lakes
There are no permanent natural rivers in Cyprus that flow all year round (they dry up in summer). Therefore, water is stored in reservoirs (dams).
Main dams (Φράγματα)
| Dam | Description |
|---|---|
| Kouris Κούρης | The largest (115 million m³). Located above Limassol. |
| Asprokremmos Ασπροκρεμμος | The second largest, in the Paphos district. |
| Evretou Ευρέτου | The third, also in the Paphos district. |
📍 In the exam: What is the name of the largest dam in Cyprus?
Answer: Kouris (Kouris).
Salt lakes (Aliki / Αλυκή)
In summer they dry up and are covered with salt, and in winter they fill with rainwater and become home to migratory birds.
- Larnaca Salt Lake: Known for the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque on its shore.
- Limassol Salt Lake (Akrotiri): The largest in area, but shallower than Larnaca.
🌿 Natural attractions
Akamas Peninsula (Ακάμας)
A wild nature reserve in the west of the island (Paphos district). A place where turtles lay their eggs (Lara Beach). Here is the Avakas Gorge (Avakas Gorge).
Kavo Greko (Cape Greco / Κάβο Γκρέκο)
The southeasternmost point of the Republic of Cyprus. A National Forest Park with sea caves and crystal-clear water.
Waterfalls
Mainly located in the Troodos mountains and active in winter/spring.
- Millomeris (Millomeris) — the highest (15 m).
- Caledonia (Caledonia) — the most popular, with a beautiful trail leading to it.