Askas: Mountain Scenery, Lanes and Churches

At 900 metres above sea level, Askas is characterised by steep mountains and deep valleys. The Askas River and other streams flow through the village. Narrow, winding lanes, high stone walls and handmade roof tiles are part of its preserved village character. The churches and the Pano Ambelia circular trail also give a trip to Askas specific cultural and scenic highlights.

Pano Ambelia circular trail: forest, orchards and mountain views

The Pano Ambelia circular trail starts at the eastern entrance to Askas, on the road between Palechori and Askas. The route passes through a pine forest and by abandoned orchards, which are being used to restore the natural vegetation. Other orchards with hazelnut and walnut trees are also part of the route; it also offers views of the Pentadaktylos mountain range. The trail description thus brings together forest, orchards and mountain panoramas. Travellers who want to prioritise nature when planning their trip will find a clear counterpoint here to the village’s lanes and churches. As a circular trail, Pano Ambelia returns to its starting point at the eastern entrance to the village.

Churches dating from the 11th and 14th centuries

The Church of the Holy Cross dates from the 11th century, is a basilica and preserves a depiction of Saint George. The Church of Saint John the Baptist was built in the 14th century in the basilica style and features a gilded iconostasis and remarkable icon paintings. Askas is therefore home to two churches from different centuries, whose described features encompass different aspects of sacred architecture and art. For visitors interested in architecture and religious art, they offer a distinct focus alongside the landscape.

Lanes, fountains and local traditions

The winding lanes, high stone walls and handmade roof tiles are part of the village’s distinctive character. Only three fountains remain in the community of Askas today; they have already been restored. The production of zivania is also part of the local product tradition: Askas is known for this high-proof spirit. At a gathering on the Tuesday after Easter, the whole village came together at the picnic area by the Agia Paraskevi Chapel outside Askas, where souvla was grilled.

Choose the focus of your stay

When looking for a holiday apartment in Askas, you can start by considering which aspects of the destination interest you most. The circular trail brings together natural attractions such as pine forest, orchards and mountain views; the churches and lanes put architectural history and the village character in the spotlight. Zivania and the Easter Tuesday gathering add local food and product culture to these highlights. This allows you to choose your destination based on the experiences you would like to include in your stay.

Discover more destinations: Kampia, Kakopetria, Prodromos, Pera, Peristerona, Vyzakia, Geri, Lythrodontas.

For the broader travel overview: Nicosia.