Szlak na Szczyt Mount Olympus

The Artemis Trail is the marked summit-loop nature trail around Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Cyprus at 1,952 metres. The trail is around 7 km long, contours around the summit zone at roughly 1,800-1,900 metres, and is graded as a moderate day-hike with a total walking time of 2.5-3 hours. It is the most rewarding of the four major Troodos nature trails for fitter walkers and gives sustained access to the high alpine zone of the mountain.

The trail is well marked with the Department of Forests waymarking system and follows a contour route around the summit — passing through ancient pine forest with several specimen Bosnian-pine and black-pine stands, crossing rocky scree slopes (the Troodos ophiolite at its highest exposure), and giving access to several summit-area viewpoints. On a clear day the views from the higher sections are extraordinary: Larnaca Bay 70 km south, the Akamas peninsula to the west, the Mesaoria plain north, the Kyrenia Pentadaktylos ridge in the far north (in the Turkish-administered north).

The trail is also one of the better places on Cyprus to see mouflon (Ovis orientalis ophion), the endemic Cypriot wild sheep. They are more easily seen at dawn and dusk; quiet walkers in early morning often spot small groups. The trail is also good for raptors (Bonelli's eagles, common buzzards, occasional griffon vultures) circling the high ridges.

What to do. Walk the loop. Most walkers start at the upper Troodos Square car park (parking is free) and walk the loop in either direction; signage is clear. Allow 3 hours including breaks. Bring lunch — there are no facilities on the trail. The trail is at altitude and even in July the morning is cool.

Insider tips. Early morning (07:00-08:00 start) is the best for mouflon and for cool walking. The trail is fully exposed to weather — bring layers and rain protection in shoulder season. Snow can persist on the higher sections into April; check before walking in winter. The Troodos Visitor Centre has excellent free maps and current trail conditions. The summit itself is fenced (military use); the trail does not reach the literal summit but several viewpoints come close.

Combinations. Pair with the Caledonia Trail (the descent from the upper Troodos to Pano Platres — together they make a long mountain day), with Trooditissa Monastery, Kykkos Monastery (40 minutes north-west), or with a Pitsilia winery (Kyperounda) for the descent.

Bring. Sturdy walking boots, 2L water, lunch and snacks, layered clothing (jacket, hat, gloves in cooler months), sunscreen, sun hat, camera, binoculars (for mouflon and birds), paper map, walking sticks if helpful. When. May for wildflowers and cool air; September-October for clear long views. Winter walks possible in dry weather but require proper boots. The Artemis Trail is the serious day-walk of the Troodos and the best way to experience the high summit zone of Cyprus' tallest mountain.