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This December 11th, Cyprus invites locals and tourists to celebrate World Mountain Day 2024 by exploring its majestic Troodos Mountains and discovering the island’s rich biodiversity, culture, and local products. With mountains covering 15% of the world’s population and serving as key biodiversity hotspots, World Mountain Day is dedicated to recognizing the mountains' vital role in sustaining life and the need to protect them against climate change, pollution, and overexploitation.
This year’s theme, "Mountain Solutions for a Sustainable Future – Innovation, Adaptation, and Youth," highlights the innovative ways mountain communities, like those in Cyprus, adapt to challenges while preserving their environment and culture.
For 2024, the Troodos Network is celebrating 10 years of service, having played a pivotal role in the development of rural mountain areas. As part of this milestone, visitors will have the chance to experience some of Cyprus’ best-kept secrets with the Honey Routes of Rural Larnaka. This initiative, supported by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, showcases the island’s "liquid gold" – honey – and introduces visitors to the charming villages and local businesses that make it a special part of Cypriot heritage.
Honeybee trail explaining the bee culture of Vavla village
The journey begins with a tour of the Honey Villages, where participants can learn about traditional beekeeping practices and the fascinating process behind Cyprus honey. One highlight of the day is the Melini Bee Park, an educational and fun stop for families. The park provides interactive learning experiences for young visitors, as they discover how bees contribute to the island’s ecosystems.
The adventure continues with a visit to the Apiary & Apitherapy Center of Oros Machaira, a successful family business passed down through generations. Visitors will see how the next generation of beekeepers is modernizing the age-old craft while keeping the tradition alive. Another must-visit is the Ecophysis Bee & Nature Centre, where guests can participate in workshops and learn about local honey production and the therapeutic benefits of honey and bee-related products.
In 2024, a new addition to the Honey Routes is the family-friendly Bee Trail in Vavla, which offers a deeper dive into the region's bee culture. Created by the Larnaka Tourism Board and the Troodos Network, this trail is the perfect way to enrich your knowledge of Cyprus' beekeeping heritage while enjoying the natural beauty of the countryside.
Plaque explaining the bee culture in Vavla village
The day will conclude with a visit to "Our House," a symbol of traditional Cypriot hospitality, where guests can unwind and enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the region.
European partners from the European Platform for Cooperation for Rural Development (PREPARE) will also be joining the event, offering a chance for officials and local stakeholders to discuss potential future collaborations and EU-funded projects that promote sustainable rural development.
Vavla Honeybee trail
Join the celebrations this World Mountain Day to experience Cyprus like never before – through its mountains, its people, and its traditions. Discover how innovation, sustainability, and community intertwine in the heart of Cyprus’ Troodos Mountains, and support local businesses that are leading the way in preserving the island’s natural and cultural treasures.
- Virtual Honey Villages Route: https://virtuallarnakaregion.com/honeyvillages/
- Website page Rural Larnaka Honey Villages: https://larnakaregion.com/directory/product/rural-larnaka-honey-villages
- Website page Honeybee Nature Trails: https://larnakaregion.com/directory/product/larnaka-honeybee-natural-trails
Mountaintop in Vavla village
