Description
Deep within the emerald heart of the Paphos Forest lies a sprawling network of ancient paths, far removed from the modern world. Guarded by the silent majesty of the Kykkos Monastery, these interconnected trails weave through a landscape of raw, unspoiled beauty that few ever witness. For those who seek the quiet thrill of discovery, these “secret” routes offer a sanctuary of seductive scenery and endless horizon. Among these hidden gems, the journey from Kykkos to Selladi tou Staxtou stands out as a true testament to the island’s wild, untouched spirit.
Your journey begins just a stone’s throw from the iconic Kykkos Monastery, specifically about 400 meters from the Throni road entrance. This 9.3 km out-and-back trek is a rewarding challenge, rated moderate-to-difficult with an elevation gain of 431 meters. As you set out, the first few kilometers share the path with the route to Selladi tis Poufous before branching off into its own unique wilderness. Once you reach Selladi tou Staxtou, you’ve hit a local crossroads; from here, the adventure can continue toward the heights of Tripylos or the location “12 Anemoi” (12 winds).
Table of Contents
Viewpoints
The trail begins on an open mountain ridgeline, where you’ll hike under the vast, sun-drenched sky. This exposed stretch offers sweeping, panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and the rolling green waves of the dense Paphos Forest. As you continue, the path ducks into the deep woods, trading the heat for the cool embrace of shaded canopies. Along this forested section, the trees occasionally part like natural windows, revealing impeccable, framed glimpses of the wilderness beyond.
Selladi originates from Sella, which means saddle. That’s how it describes the location that connects 2 mountains!
Staxtou is the name of the location, which is also visible in the Maps.
Starting points
To find the trailhead, head approximately 400 meters from the main entrance of the road leading toward Throni. Look for a secondary road branching off to your right. Follow this path until it transitions into a gravel road that is closed to vehicular traffic. Continue for a few hundred meters until you spot water tanks on your left; the trail begins directly opposite them on your right.
Note that because the road to Throni is private and may be gated or closed by the time you return, we strongly recommend parking at the designated location shown on the nature trail information table (trailhead) to avoid being locked in.
Personal comments
Though set in a remote and secluded corner of the island, the trail’s raw beauty is well worth the journey. It offers breathtaking vistas of the Paphos Forest, where the mountains seem to roll on forever toward the horizon. Whether you are traversing dramatic ridgelines or leaping from one peak to the next, you are constantly rewarded with panoramic views. For the quiet and observant hiker, there is also the rare chance to spot the elusive Cyprus Mouflon, a majestic encounter that truly elevates the entire experience.
Kykkos to Selladi tou Staxtou trail information table
| Description | |
| Starting points | near Kykkos Monastery or 34.98247, 32.73916 (link) |
| Ending point | Selladi tou Staxtou or 35.00265, 32.71309 (link) |
| Distance | 9.3 km (out and back) |
| Difficulty (1 – easy, 2 – moderate, 3 – difficult) | Moderate to Difficult |
| Trail type | Linear |
| ETA finish time | ~3-4 hours |
| Elevation Gain/Loss | 431 metres |
| Maximum Altitude | 1199 metres |
Elevation Stats
GPS map
Gallery
5 nearby trails
- Selladi Tou Staxtou To Trypilos Trail
- The Loggers trail
- Kykkos to Selladi tis Poufous trail
- 12 Anemoi – Selladi tou Stavrou trail
- Chorteri trail
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Ελληνικά (Greek)
