everyday escape

Besides a family with a dog and traces from newborn sea turtles we where alone. Walking along our favourite beach on west Akrotiri peninsula. It was as relaxing as an afternoon with the kids can be. Beautiful scenery for the soul.

What is your favourite hang out for some peace and quiet with your loved ones?

Trooditissa

Summer time many city Cypriots go to picnic areas up-hills to have lunch and rest with their big families in the shadow of the big pine trees. We had figured it out when taking food breaks for kids at a picnic area halfway to Agros. There's actually supposed to be a cluster of them in Troodos region

Without any further research we headed towards Troodos yesterday. Still no signs in sight and only a few km:s from Troodos we made a sharp turn towards Trooditissa monastery. The tiny road there run along a really steep hill-side with spectacular views.

Eventually we found a picnic area. It was seriously crowded. At least 30 souvla grills where standing in neat rows in the roofed grilling areas. We found an odd unoccupied table, just enough for our one-family company. After a short watermelon and halloumi break we went on exploring the surroundings. We found what seemed a fireroad that we followed.

We had a good walk admiring the beautiful views of valleys and mountains. Saw interesting plants, such as strawberry trees. Really black rock.

After another food break we drove to the nearby monastery. Well home we where more tired than expected. Probably due to the oxygene deficient air.

a long day hiking and beaching

Did this years first hiking on Troodos mountains. We walked through thick black pine forest. Had picked the easy level Persephoni trail. Since it's a 3 km linear trail we walked about half and turned, just enough for a three and a half year old. The air was significantly fresher and at least 5 degrees chillier than Limassol's 35 C.

About half way big girl had a mood dip, everyone else where just fine. We rounded up the day by going for a swim with her best school pal and her folks at Lady's Mile. Had some kalamari for snacks. Stayed until after dark, yet no mosquitoes. All in all a pretty good day for everyone.

Avdimou beach

Continuing our exploration of beaches west of Limassol. After Long Beach in Paramali, and before Pissouri, the nearest beach is in Avdimou Bay. Before arriving to the sea are plenty of vineyards and olive trees. The beach is child friendly, in the area are few beach restaurants and otherwise beautiful surroundings.

The other day we went evening strolling along west end of the beach while I snapped some photos. We walked under a primitive landing stage for some colourful fishing boats, explored tiny caves and kids tried walking in seaweed shoes.