Exploring Salamiou: A Hidden Rural Village in the Paphos District of Cyprus
- Christina Pistenti
- Sep 1
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 2
When most people think of Cyprus, they picture sun-drenched beaches and long sunny days by the azure waters of the Mediterranean. There is so much more to this beautiful island than its popular tourist spots. Away from the coast lies a very different Cyprus - one of rural charm, traditional villages, mountain trails, vineyards and authentic seasonal experiences that capture the island’s true character. Salamiou is a historic rural village in the rolling countryside of the Paphos District of Cyprus and beckons those who enjoy exploring vineyards, monasteries, hiking trails and discovering the traditional village life.
Escape to Rural Cyprus - Why Visit Salamiou?
With the freedom that a car, bicycle or walking boots bring, you can leave behind the hustle and bustle of Paphos town or a day on the beach to discover the untouched beauty of Cyprus. The countryside around Salamiou is dotted with numerous olive, almond and carob trees, scented with wild herbs and enriched with numerous mythology and legends.
The village of Salamiou is situated in the Paphos District, not far from Paphos Airport and welcomes travellers with warm Cypriot hospitality. The area around Salamiou offers a wealth of cultural, historical and natural attractions. The journey to the village itself is part of the adventure - winding through scenic valleys and mountain roads past ancient olive trees and shepherds with their sheep, revealing the island’s timeless character.
Where is Salamiou?
Salamiou nestles on a broad ridge that divides the two wide valleys of the Xeros and Dhiarizos rivers, which were once two of the island’s mightiest waterways. Today, the Dhiarizos still flows but is not the large river it once was and the Xeros flows intermittently after the winter rains.
Today the valleys are hidden worlds filled with treasures such as the carefully restored 16th-century monastery of Panayia tou Sinti and the pretty arched Venetian bridges of Gefyri touTzilefou (Kelefos), Elia and Roudias.
Thanks to its location, Salamiou makes the perfect base for day trips to Paphos and as a stopping point on the road to Pano Platres, Omodos, Kykkos Monastery and the beautiful Troodos Mountains. Limassol with its magnificent Roman theatre at Curium (Kourion) and the Crusader Castle of Kolossi are also within a comfortable drive from your holiday accommodation on the outskirts of Salamiou.
A Village Steeped in History and Tradition
Archaeological discoveries show that Salamiou has been inhabited since ancient times. The most famous archaeological find has been the Calcolithic “twin deity” figurine, which is believed to represent two divinities and the statuette of Amfiaraos.
The village’s name is believed to have been derioved from Salamina – of ancient Greece. According to tradition, the Apostles Paul, Varnavas and Evangelist Marco, discarded their olive stones there during their travels from Salamina of Ammochostos to Paphos via Solon Kingdom and trees grew from the stones and became known as the “Postolitzies Elies” – meaning ‘olives of the Apostles’.
Standing at 750 metres above sea level, Salamiou enjoys a fresh, dry climate all year round and is free from the coastal humidity. Once an isolated community, the village is now easily reached by car, although it still preserves its rural charm and a proud sense of self-sufficiency.
Exploring Salamiou: Architecture, Churches and Monasteries
Walking through Salamiou reveals many traditional stone houses and some have been lovingly restored, there are narrow lanes and the vryssi (village spring), which has also been restored and in the evenings is lit with antique-style street lamps.
The focal point of the village is the Church of Ayia Varvara (Church of Saint Barbara) and there is another smaller church dedicated to Ayios Yeoryios (Saint George).
Nearby lies the pretty Monastery of Panayia tis Salamiotissis, run by three nuns who keeps the chapel and gardens in pristine condition. In its courtyard stands a pierced monolith, where local tradition says women who pass through the hole will be blessed with children or cured of any ailments they have.
Wine Tasting in Salamiou at the Lagria Winery
One of the hillsides of Salamiou is dominated by the Lagria Winery, a family-run vineyard producing seven excellent wines. Visitors can arrange tastings and sample wines there made from the local indigenous grape varieties such as Mavro and Xynisteri. The village has a long wine-making tradition; in the past, most families made their own wines and sun-dried raisins, which were prized for their rich flavour thanks to the high-altitude climate.
Tip: Call ahead (+357 99 404872) to arrange a winery visit or tasting.
Hiking and Nature Trails in Salamiou
For active visitors, the Salamiou area offers four scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Xeros and Dhiarizos valleys. The trails reveal wildflowers, herbs, butterflies and an abundance of birds – both resident and migratory species.
Hiking Highlights
Mouti Trail: This route is particularly challenging and rewarding.
Panoramic Views: From one side, admire the silhouette of the Troodos Mountains; from the other, gaze toward the Paphos coast.
Birdwatching: Cyprus lies on a major migratory route between Europe, Africa, and Asia. In spring and autumn, the skies around Salamiou are filled with migrating raptors, songbirds and even vultures and eagles.
Walk in the Footsteps of the Apostles
This route starts at the town centre and ends at the majestic Apostolic Olive trees.
River trail
This route is from the town centre and ends at the Monastery of Panayia tis Salamiotissis.
Agro-tourism and Ecotourism in Salamiou
Traditionally an agricultural community, Salamiou thrives on the cultivation of grapes, almonds, olives and citrus fruit. Younger generations have embraced agro-tourism and ecotourism to preserve village life and attract visitors seeking authentic experiences.
Projects supported by local residents include the restoration of historic houses, the repair of old dry-stone walls, re-enchanting people on Terrace Landscapes, the cultural centre, and Youth Centre activities that encourage respect for the natural environment.
Where to eat in and around Salamiou
Exploring is hungry work, and Salamiou and its neighbouring villages have tavernas serving delicious traditional Cypriot food. Visitors can enjoy mezédhes (meze) is a ‘must do’ and comprises of a wide selection of tasting dishes that include savoury dips, salad, grilled meats, seasonal vegetables, olives and local cheeses.
Many of the ingredients come fresh from the surrounding fields, making every meal a celebration of Cypriot flavours.
Staying near Salamiou in Restored Village Houses
Melissothea Stone Suites are two listed traditional stone houses that are over 100 years old. They are located in the charming village of Mesana, just two kilometres from Salamiou and offer guests the perfect blend of traditional charm and modern comforts. The two independent suites are situated under the same roof and they offer guests the perfect way to immerse themselves in authentic Cypriot village life.
Melissothea Stone Suites are ideal as a base for your exploration of the Paphos District and offer you the flexibility to go where you want and to enjoy fresh local produce for the meals you prepare in the suites’ well-equipped kitchens.
How to Get to Salamiou
Salamiou can be easily reached from Paphos Airport and the towns of Paphos and Limassol:
From the Limassol–Paphos highway, take the Kouklia/Troodos exit.
Follow the B6 (old Limassol–Paphos road).
Turn at the Salamiotissa Monastery sign (F616), then left at F617.
Continue 21 km to reach Salamiou.
Why Salamiou is Worth Discovering?
Whether you’re drawn by wine tasting, hiking trails, ancient monasteries, or simply the chance to experience authentic village life in Cyprus, the Salamiou area is a hidden gem in the Paphos district. With its welcoming community, rich history, and beautiful natural surroundings, it makes a relaxing out-of-season break.
