Ezousa

Ezousa Valley Walk curves through one of Cyprus's most beautiful valleys on the west bank of the Ezousa River, surrounded by lush plane trees and alder providing shade and shelter. This 8.2km loop in Paphos offers moderate terrain with stunning views of the valley, Paphas Forest, and distant Troodos mountains. The route passes abandoned villages, historic chapels, and an ancient water mill – all within a valley recognized as a European nature sanctuary for its ecological richness.

The walk begins at the Environmental Information Centre in Episkopi and immediately immerses hikers in the riparian ecosystem of the Ezousa Valley. Oriental Plane trees (Platanus orientalis) and Oriental Alder trees (Alnus orientalis) dominate the vegetation, creating a natural canopy that provides cooling shade even on the warmest days. These ancient species have adapted over millennia to the river valley's specific microclimate, creating an oasis of green lushness against the surrounding Paphos landscape.

Along the route, the trail passes the ruins of the abandoned village of Moro Nero, a reminder of the rural settlements that once populated this valley more densely. Hikers also encounter the modest St. Gennadios chapel and an ancient water mill that once harnessed the river's power. The entire valley has been designated as a NATURA 2000 site – both a Place of Community Importance and a Special Protection Area for birds – recognizing its exceptional ecological value. This combination of natural beauty, historical remnants, and environmental protection makes the Ezousa Valley one of Paphas's most distinctive hiking experiences.