The landscape around Kritou Terra and the neighbouring villages is fascinating in its diversity and splendour. Many visitors and residents alike remain in awe of the beauty of this small corner of the island. Exploration can be done on foot, mountain bike or car. To catch sight of the abundant flora and fauna, a walk along the myriad footpaths is strongly recommended.
Nearby Droushia is situated on a hilltop with magnificent views over Polis and Chrysochou Bay. It is rich in physical landforms and cultural monuments. The landscape around the village is punctuated by massive rocks, with the prominent Eagle's Rock inviting the visitor for a climb and a picnic. Traditional architecture is very much intact and some villagers can still be found to wear the traditional vraka (baggy trousers). Among the craftsmen that still work here is a coppersmith. A weaving and textile museum is well worth a visit. Neighbouring Ineia lies on the edge of the proposed Akamas National Park and at an altitude of 600m, commands sweeping views of the area, including the beautiful coastline around Lara Bay. Ineia houses a basket weaving museum. |
Kathikas is well known for its many vineyards, with grapes being its main product and their cultivation the main occupation of the village. There are two wineries in the village, namely Sterna and Vasilikon. Notable is the church of Panayia Evangelistria (AD 1870). Beside the church lies the Visitor Centre, open daily from 11am to 4pm. Maps and brochures are available, highlighting the area's natural and cultural points of interest. Handicrafts and local produce are also on sale.
Further north lies Akourdalia. This pretty village is in two parts, 'Pano' and 'Kato', 'Upper' and 'Lower' respectively. A herb garden with a wide variety of Cypriot aromatic herbs is open to the public. The tiny 16 Century chapel of Ayia Paraskevi and the miller's house, set beside the imposing Pitharolakkos Gorge, are well worth a visit. There is also a well-kept Rural Life Museum. Akourdalia is a great village to witness the almond blossoms in the spring! Picturesque Miliou, the 'green' village, is set amid citrus orchards. The Monastery of Ayii Anargyri (now a small hotel), enjoys a healing sulphur spring. For more information on any of the Laona villages, please email [email protected] |