Κοιλάδα Ξερού Κυκλική (Παναγία Σίντη - Άγιος Νικόλαος) - Xeros Valley Circular (Panagia Sinti - Agios Nikolaos)

The Xeros Valley is one of the few places in Cyprus where very old remains of human settlements have been found (10000 BC). It is an extremely beautiful and unique valley created by the Xeros River, and it is dissected left and right by its numerous tributaries.

The majority of hikers prefer to walk the north end of the valley, in the area of Vretsia / Roudias. The current proposed hike / walk, while not too adventurous in terms of the hiking surface, will take you through some of the most important cultural sights of the area, and it will give you the chance to experience some breathtaking scenery!

We start at the village of Pentalia, and go quickly down towards our first point of interest, the Monastery of Panagia of Sinti. You will be walking mostly on a paved road, but the extraordinary views will make up for it. Especially if you walk during the winter / early spring time, as EVERYTHING is green and springs of water literally emerge from everywhere / to everywhere! (January 2022).

At the bottom of the road you will find the Monastery of Panagia of Sinti, a truly unique experience. It has received the Europa Nostra Award for its restoration in 1997. Blending perfectly with the environment, it gives you a very good idea of what life in a 16th century Monastery was all about. Next to it you can find the remains of one of its two water mills. Pay attention to this small part as there is no designated path to it.

Following on, we walk next to the river Xeros ('Dry'). It is the 5th longest river of Cyprus, and, despite its name, it is nothing but dry during winter / spring. As there is no upstream dam to stop its flow, you will have the chance to enjoy a significant flow of water (almost suitable for kayak!), quite unusual for Cyprus.

After 2-3 kms we start our ascend. This part is the 'difficult' one in terms of required fitness. The walk is on the paved road, but the total elevation is significant (around 600 metres). However, during your ascend you will have the chance to stop at the largely unknown, very small chapel of Agios Nikolaos, which is a heritage monument due to its limited but very beautiful frescos. You will also have the chance to 'meet and greet' various donkeys, horses, and cows, which roam freely in the area!

Once you reach Galataria, you take the left turn and return to Pentalia to your car.

It may not sound as interesting 'hiking-wise', but trust me ... it's worth it! Especially during winter / spring. Of course you can also follow the same path as an off-road adventure with a 4x4 car.

Rated as moderate but it is a bit more complicated. It is certainly not suitable for children due to its length and elevation. Parts of it are easy, other parts are demanding. So 'moderate' is the best trade-off I can give.

Enjoy!