A Guide 2 Platres - Cyprus

Description:

Platres is 9 kilometres from Troodos and 40 kilometres from Limassol embedded high up in the Troodos Mountain Range. It is a favourite retreat for local holiday makers who appreciate a respite from the heat in the summer months.

The village is divided into two parts, Kato (Lower) and Pano (Upper) Platres. Pano Platres caters for tourists, with its numerous tavernas, restaurants, discos and a Cyprus Tourist Office. Kato Platres is the quieter location.
 
The average altitude of Platres is approximately 1200 metres.
 
Platres is an old village existing during the Lusignan and Venetian Era. The name may have come from three theories; Platra, meaning the one that weaves and sells sheets used by farmers. Or it may have been the monks during the Frank Rule, called Platrai, dressed in white. Or finally from the name Platsa, becoming Platres later on.

The thick forest and rich vegetation that surround the village holds testament that Platres has one of the highest rainfalls in Cyprus. There is also a perennial stream flowing through the village.

The British discovered the natural beauty and favourable climate in Platres in 1878 which is when the development of tourism began. Holiday residence and hotels were first built in 1890.
  
Climate:
Platres receives one of the highest rainfalls in Cyprus, hence the rich, green forest and vegetation in the area. The temperature during the hot summer months is cooler in Platres and acts as a retreat for those escaping the strong July and August sunshine. There is little or no humidity during the summer.
To Visit:

The Kaledonian/Caledonian Waterfall - located at the top of the village, it is accessible on foot or by car from the trout farm. The name came from the English and Scottish who visited the area around 1878 and were reminded of their homeland (Caledonia was the name of Scotland in ancient times). The water falls vertically from a height of 12 metres and is the highest that exists in Cyprus. 
 
The Fountain of Roxanne - Built in 1936, it takes its name from Roxanne Koudounari, the donor of the monument. It is made from marble with local rock in the background. Many locals and tourists drink the fresh spring water from the fountain.
 
Useful Numbers:

COMMUNITY COUNCIL OF PANO PLATRES
Tel: 25 813 112
E-mail:
k.s.p.platres@cytanet.com.cy

mail@platres.org