Discover Xylofagou through several distinct themes: the restored Church of Agios Georgios in the village center, the underwater landscape of the Skopia dive route and the coastal caves. There are also paleontological finds and routes connected with the Tower of Xylofagou. When choosing accommodation, you can first consider whether village history, the coast or a tour on the water or by bike will shape your stay.
Village center and rural character
Xylofagou is one of the Kokkinochoria, the “red soil villages,” and has a rural character. Coastal caves are also among the area’s features. In the village center is the restored 15th-century Church of Agios Georgios, which preserves frescoes. The Chapel of Panagia tou Syrmatou overlooks the sea. Together, these buildings represent different cultural points of reference: a church with frescoes in the village center and a chapel with views over the sea.
Skopia and the underwater landscape
The Skopia dive route is a coastal area in Xylofagou. Its depths range from 1 to 18 meters; different depth zones and entry points are among its features. According to the description, it is considered suitable for inexperienced divers and snorkelers. The deepest spots are just over 18 meters and are described for experienced divers. If you include Skopia in your plans, you can take the stated depths and entry points into account alongside your own diving experience.
Underwater, there are rock walls, crevices of varying lengths and heights, and geomorphological formations. Posidonia seagrass meadows are also found in places. The route therefore offers a range of described underwater features, from rock walls and crevices to patches of seagrass.
Coastal caves and paleontological finds
The sea cave Mavrospilios has stalactites and stalagmites. Its entrance lies about three meters below the sea surface; the cave is accessible only to divers. Near Cape Pyla are the coastal coves and sea caves of Xylofagou, which can be reached from the small fishing harbor or as part of a guided kayak tour. If you are considering a kayak tour, check in advance whether one is available on your chosen date.
The caves also have a paleontological history. In 1903, British paleontologist Dorothy Bate discovered fossils in the Cave of Eglezou. Fossilized hippopotamus bones were discovered at the Cave of Agioi Saranta. At Eglezou, the find, discoverer and year are linked; at Agioi Saranta, the focus is on the discovery of fossilized bones.
Routes at the Tower of Xylofagou
The 46 km Venetian Watchtowers Route (East Larnaka Region) leads to the Xylofagou Watchtower. The Agia Napa–Pyrgos–Xylofagou cycling route passes the medieval Tower of Xylofagou and then continues to the outskirts of the village. The details differ: the total length is given for the Venetian Watchtowers Route, while the cycling route is described as continuing past the tower to the outskirts. Before setting out on a bike ride, check the current route conditions.
Discover more destinations: Aradippou, Meneou, Troulloi, Livadia, Tochni, Xylotymvou, Mazotos, Kiti
For the main travel overview: Larnaca.
