Kalavasos is quaint, authentic and wonderfully secluded. Beautifully unspoilt, the village offers visitors a delightful representation of traditional Cyprus.
Description
Kalavasos is only 30 minutes from Larnaca airport and 20 minutes from Limassol town centre; yet it is wonderfully remote with an old world feeling about it. Kalavasos holidays are authentic and this can be felt most profoundly in the historic town centre, where there’s an attractive square with friendly locals only too happy to share their knowledge of the area to tell you all the best places to visit. An old church sits at the heart of Kalavasos, among the traditional houses; enhancing the village’s character. It dates back exactly 100 years and displays beautiful Byzantine icons and carved wooden iconostasis.
With cobbled stone streets, old houses and a long-standing cafe (kafeneon) cementing the village's strong, Cypriot roots, be sure to take time out to enjoy an authentic coffee here and relax a while as you watch the world go by. The village is surrounded by mountains; ideal for those wanting an adventurous walking holiday, however the popular, relaxing Governor's beach is only a short drive away. Kalavasos is a highly popular destination, due to its convenient proximity to a host of attractions and other resorts, however it is also one that will leave you appreciating and admiring the natural side of this stunning island.
Take a trip to the nearby picturesque Kalavasos Dam. This impressive structure was built in 1985 and is constructed on a seasonal river some 30 kilometres northeast of Limassol just above the village. Stop by at the Kalavasos mines, just six kilometres northwest of the village. Although no longer in operation the Dam is still pretty impressive, with vast historical importance to the area. The Kalavasos archaeological tent is also just a short distance away and one of the most significant Neolithic settlements in Cyprus. Dating back to 7000 BC, you can learn how the ‘Tenta’ got its name, which, according to legend was in 327 AD when St. Helen, the mother of Constantine the Great stayed in a tent here, following the discovery of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem.
Kalavasos is an ideal location for those wanting a simple, relaxing holiday in scenic, peaceful surroundings.
Things To See
Town square: the historic town square is usually bustling with friendly locals. There is a cafe (kafenion) where you can enjoy authentic local coffee's.
Church: the central church of the village, which is dedicated to Panagia Theotokos, is located in the centre of the village amongst the traditional houses; enhancing the village's character. It dates back exactly 100 years and displays beautiful Byzantine icons and wooden carved iconostasis.
The Kalavasos archaeological tent: Visit the 'Tenta' to admire the interesting archaeological ruins that have been excavated from the village over time; ruins dating back to the Neolithic period.
The Kalavasos mines: Are located 6 kms north-west of the village. They are no longer operating however they are still an impressive site and have large amounts of historical importance.
The Kalavasos dam: The impressive dam was built in 1985 and is constructed on a seasonal river some 30 kms northeast of Limassol just above the village. The dam embankment has a maximum height of 58 metres and a crest length of approximately 700 metres.
The Limassol market: Only a 15 minutes drive from Kalavasos is Limassol's famous market. Open only on Saturday's, it is very popular with locals and tourists alike who seek inexpensive, quality goods; such as clothes, antiques, local produce and snacks - so make sure you get there early!