Top 12 Lakes in the Troodos Mountains

Among the most appreciated spots are the View of Germasogeia Reservoir from Kyparissia Peak, offering panoramic views and an information board. Visitors also frequently explore Kouris Dam, a significant man-made monument with scenic roads, and Argakas Dam, where short hikes are enjoyable when the reservoir is full.

While most lakes in the Troodos Mountains are man-made dams and reservoirs, there is a unique seasonal natural lake known as Secret Lake, also called Diamond Lake or Almyrolivado Lake. It appears after significant winter rainfall or snowfall and offers a mystical, hidden experience within the forest.

Several lakes offer family-friendly options. Asprokremmos Dam and Xyliatos Dam are noted as family-friendly. The Prodromos Dam area also has a picnic site in Prodromos village, about 5km from Troodos Square, perfect for family outings. In winter, Prodromos Dam can even transform into a makeshift ice rink.

The best time to visit depends on your interests. For the unique Secret Lake, winter is ideal when the Troodos Mountains are covered in snow, enhancing its beauty and making the hike more rewarding. Many dams, like Prodromos, are particularly picturesque when full in winter after rainfall. However, the serene settings and recreational activities around dams like Kalopanayiotis and Arminou can be enjoyed throughout the warmer months as well.

Yes, the Kalopanayiotis Dam is a popular spot for trout fishing. It's known as the only species that thrives in its deep waters, making it an ideal location for anglers.

The Troodos Mountains offer a variety of outdoor activities near its lakes. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and hiking. For example, there are challenging gravel biking routes like the 'Columbia Beach, Limassol – Akrounta to Amirou Gravel Road loop' and road cycling routes such as the 'Asprokremmos Dam – Road to Nata loop'. Hiking enthusiasts can explore trails like those leading to the medieval Tzelefos bridge near Arminou Dam or the trekking paths to the Pera Vasa picnic area. You can find more details on these activities in our guides for Gravel biking in the Troodos Mountains, Road Cycling Routes in the Troodos Mountains, and Waterfall hikes in the Troodos Mountains.

Yes, near the Arminou Dam, you can visit the medieval Tzelefos bridge, which adds a historical element to the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the village of Kalopanayiotis, close to the Kalopanayiotis Dam, is known for its traditional Cypriot cuisine and rustic hotels, offering a cultural experience.

Beyond the lakes themselves, you can find diverse natural features. The Secret Lake is hidden in a rocky, mystical landscape within a 'virgin forest land'. Prodromos Dam is cocooned by a dense pine forest. Arminou Dam is enclosed by mountains, offering spectacular forest views. The area around Asprokremmos Dam is also recognized as a natural monument.

The Kalavasos Dam is easily reachable from Kalavasos village, even by road bike. It's located in an old mining area, with an old gallery mouth and loading system below the dam, which is worth exploring. It's a great destination for gravel, mountain, and road biking, with many good routes around it.

Visitors appreciate the peaceful and almost deserted environment around Argakas Dam. It's a place where you can enjoy tranquility, especially when the reservoir is full, making a short hike worthwhile. While accessible by car, many recommend alternative transport like quads to preserve the peace and avoid dust.

Many lakes in the Troodos Mountains offer scenic views. The View of Germasogeia Reservoir from Kyparissia Peak provides a beautiful perspective. Kouris Dam is known for its curvy, undulating road with picturesque views along its length. Arminou Dam, with its blue, calm waters nestled within a green haven and surrounded by mountains, is also highly recommended for its visual appeal.

The lakes in the Troodos Mountains, primarily man-made dams and reservoirs, are crucial for Cyprus's water supply. They play a vital role in water management, especially during the long, dry summers. The Troodos Mountains catch a significant amount of the island's rainfall, making these reservoirs essential for the island's resources.