Atalanti North, a section of the 14km circular Atalanti trail, was the Cyprus Strollers’ choice for October 15. Over 40 Strollers (and two dogs) gathered at Troodos square and walked anti-clockwise just under 5km and back, for 9.5km worth of Troodos mountain rambling.

The route was a formula for stroller satisfaction – not too long, but not too short, not too steep and not too flat. But make no mistake: while it could be labeled as a one-size-fits-all trail, Atalanti North is far from monotonous. Gentle ups and downs took us through shady forest patches, as well as under the open skies or along sun-dappled paths, some smooth and wide, others bumpy and narrow.

This is a terrain that tells many silent stories. Moss covered tree trunks give evidence of the clean air. Hanging branches report the snowfall of many winters. Rock formations that burst out of nowhere are the stuff of geologists’ dreams. But you need absolutely no science to delight in the carpets of pine cones, the colours of wild apple trees and the therapeutic views to the summit of Olympus or the valleys below. And if it were possible to look into the Strollers’ minds, chances are, many were flirting with plans to complete the longer, but equally smooth and satisfying full Atalanti circle.

The variety then shifted from the trail to the table with a buffet lunch to end the hike and announce the next one. Compliments to Dina for creating this summary and to Koula, Nana and Clara for the photos. Join us on 21 Oct. at Kakopetria https://cyprus-strollers.org/activities-description/kakopetria-agios-nicolaos-platania-hike-21-oct/

bed of fallen pine cones

autumn colours