Troodos Forest
The mountain range of Troodos is the backbone of Cyprus. Most of the Troodos forest covers an area of 90,000 acres and in 1992 it was established as a National Forest Park. The purpose of this definition was to preserve the ecological, scientific, recreational, hydrological and economic values of the area. Since 2002, an Environmental Information Center has been set up in Troodos Square for the best and fuller information of its visitors. Within the park there are nine excursion spaces and three camping sites with all the necessary amenities. For walkers there are 10 natural paths, one of which is designed for wheelchairs.
The flora and fauna are characterized as rich with many species being located only within the park. Its rocks have been created in such a way that they are considered among the best in the world and so are the subject of a scientific study. From a geological point of view, the extent of the forest lies on a wide variety of nuclear rocks, including crossings, gobbies, pyroxenes, sunnians, verlites, serpentinites, sub-plantains and lavas. Siliceous soils and fillers developed on these lands.
The Troodos National Forest Park is a source for the largest rivers of Cyprus, and of about fifty springs it supplies many villages. The main threats to the Park are fires, which are usually caused by human negligence, illegal bird hunting, pollution, recreational activities, causing damage and, finally, excessive use of pesticides.
Location
Forests - Rivers
Adelphi Forest
The Adelphi (Brothers) Forest occupies an area of 128.8 km2, is a state property and, due to its considerable natural value, has been included in the European Network of Protected Areas ‘Natura 2000’. The real boundaries of the forest are: to the sou
Adelphi Forest Peak
The peak, at an altitude of 1612 meters, at the highest point of the Adelphi Forest. The real boundaries of the forest are: to the south the ridge east of Karvounas, including Madaris, to the west the valley of Solias from Platania to the east of Flass
Atsas River
The river Atsas originates from the village of Spilia and after being enriched by various springs it descends, following a path south to the village. Just outside the village in the area of ”Diplopotama” at an altitude of 512 m., Atsas joins another
Kakopetria Forest
The Kakopetria Forest covers most of the Troodos Mountains and has been declared a National Forest Park. Its management has been undertaken by the Department of Forests. Two rivers spring from the forest, Garrillis and Karkotis, which join in the villa