Fikardou, Machairas and Lefkara Small Group Tour
Excursions & day trips

Fikardou, Machairas and Lefkara Small Group Tour

Free cancellation
Language: English
Mobile voucher accepted
Duration: more than 8 hours
Why you’ll love this…
  • Mingle with the locals in the almost-deserted highlands hamlet of Fikardou
  • Visit historic Machairas Monastery, home to a revered icon of the Virgin Mary
  • Stroll around the village of Lefkara, famed for its lace and silver handicrafts
  • Try halloumi and bread making and enjoy a traditional lunch in a Skarinou farm
  • Expert local guide with an unrivalled knowledge of Cyprus and its culture
What to expect

This small group tour leaves no stone unturned as you explore Cyprus's hidden corners. Discover remote villages and a historic monastery, and try traditional cooking as you get a hands-on look at the island's culture. Stavroulla, one of our expert local guide, says, ‘In Lefkara, women young and old can be seen seated outside their houses and shops making lace. It's so famous that even Leonardo da Vinci bought some.'

Leaving the busy beach resorts behind, you'll arrive mid-morning at the quiet hamlet of Fikardou. All cobblestones and terracotta-topped stone houses, time seems to have frozen still here. The tiny, pine-fringed church remains its centrepiece. According to UNESCO, which is considering listing Fikardou as a heritage site, ‘the integrity and authenticity of the village is in complete harmony with its environment'. We'll drop into a local café, where you'll get the chance to mingle with locals and find out what ancient traditions still hold sway here.

Next, you'll head high into the mountains to tour the 12th century Machairas Monastery, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Stavroulla says, ‘Many Cypriots believe its icon of the Virgin Mary to be miraculous and that it was painted by the apostle Luke.' There's also a chance to shop for the famous handmade lace and embroidery made in Lefkara. Finally, you'll stop in Skarinou to try your hand at halloumi and bread making at a family-owned farm, before rounding off with a typical Cypriot lunch accompanied by your creations.

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What's included
  • check Transport
  • check Guide
  • check Admission fees
  • check Lunch
  • check Local delicacy tasting
What to remember
  • Not suitable for wheelchairs
  • Dress appropriately – no shoulders or knees showing – when visiting religious buildings
  • This experience doesn't follow our general cancellation policy. If you need to cancel, you must do so at least 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
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Provider
TUI CYPRUS LTD
Booking fee
Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.
Cancellation policy
Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 1 day before the experience begins.

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