Lofou village can be found just 26km northwest of Limassol at an altitude of 800 meters. The villages of Vouni, Silikou, Koilani, Agios Therapon and Pera Pedi and many more boarder Lofou. The name ‘Lofou’ was given because the village was built on a hill, Lofos means hill in Greek. Through findings of pottery and other archeological evidence its said that the village dates back to the early to mid-Bronze Age. However, from old written texts it is said that the village was most probably founded during the Frankish rule.
The population of the village was at its highest during 1946. Since then, many have moved to neighboring villages to work on their land.
This village has many vineyards, almond trees and a beautiful natural environment witch picturesque view. There are also olive trees and uncultivated areas of natural vegetation too. For nature lovers there is a nature hike you can take with starts at Tzillaka and ends in the in the village at the water fountain. This water fountain actually dates back to 1842 and was where all villagers went to get their supply of water for their household.
Lofou has many sights to see like a museum, an old olive oil mill, a church and even places to eat, drink and stay the night. While walking around the village you will be greeted with beautiful winding cobblestone streets. The houses here are traditional homes with wooden balconies which have been restored to their former glory. The school is of neoclassical architecture while the hotel is a new build.
Amongst all this you will find many taverns, cafes, a mini market and even a herb shop. Many visitors stay a night or two to have a break from the city to take in all the beautiful nature of the village and its surroundings.
You will find the main church and three chapels in Lofou. The church was built in the 19th century and is dedicated to Annunciation. The one chapel however is dedicated to the Profit Elia. The other two, newer chapels, are dedicated to Agios Georgios and the other to Agia Marina.
As for the museum, here you will find the 200-year-old mill press but also a few more folkloric items for you to see.
Towards the end of September, Lofou hosts and celebrates the harvest of grapes with a Grape Festival. Visitors come from all around to experience and taste the sweets made from the grape juice. There is also traditional music, dancing and wine tasting that takes place. This festival is known as ‘Palouze Festival’ and is on the last Sunday of September. The festival also commemorates the hero of the village ‘Ioannis Stavrinos’.
So, whether you decide to visit for the day, stay a few nights or visit for the festival, Lofou village will impress you. The natural beauty, sights to see, places to eat and just the pure calmness and peacefulness are sure to make you want to come back.
