Agios Neophytos Monastery & Tala Village

Some rides stay with you, not because they’re hard, but because they’re quiet. The journey up to Agios Neophytos Monastery, tucked into the hills above Tala Village, is exactly that kind of ride. Just 10 kilometres from Paphos, it’s a gentle climb that swaps the coastal buzz for pine-scented air, birdsong, and sweeping views across the valley.

With your BiRide e-bike, the uphill feels smooth and easy, leaving you free to take in the stillness of the landscape as you approach one of Cyprus’ most spiritual and beautifully preserved sites.

Agios Neophytos Monastery – Spirit in Stone

Carved straight into the mountainside, the monastery dates back to 1159, founded by Saint Neophytos, a hermit who sought peace, study, and solitude in these hills. He lived here for decades, and his original cave dwelling, the Enkleistra, is still open to visitors. It’s cool, an echoing chamber is covered in delicate 12th-century frescoes, faded but full of life.

Outside, the monastery’s stone walls seem to grow out of the rock itself. The small church glows with Byzantine artwork and icons, and there’s a museum displaying rare manuscripts and religious artefacts. You don’t need to be religious to feel something here, it’s the kind of place where even the air feels thoughtful.

The silence is real, almost tangible. Bells chime gently, voices are hushed, and every sound feels like part of the setting.

The Ride – From the Coast to the Cloister

Starting from Paphos or Coral Bay & Beyond, the route winds through Emba and Tala before turning uphill into the forested slopes that hide the monastery. The distance is short, around 10 km from Paphos Harbour, but it’s full of lovely contrasts: olive groves, vineyards, and glimpses of the sea that fade into pine-covered hills.

It’s a steady climb, moderate but comfortable with e-assist. A hybrid or mountain e-bike is ideal for the gentle gradients and slightly uneven surfaces near the top. The road is quiet, especially in the mornings, and it’s easy to stop for photos or a breath of cool mountain air.

Pause in Tala Village

Before or after your visit, make time for Tala Village. It’s the kind of place that feels content in its own rhythm, part traditional, part modern, always welcoming. The square is shaded, relaxed, and perfect for a coffee or light lunch. You’ll likely meet locals chatting under the trees, a few expats reading in cafés, and cats making the most of the sun.

A short walk from the square leads to the Church of Agios Kendeas, a small, peaceful spot that overlooks the valley. Tala also has walking trails and picnic spots tucked between the trees, ideal for a quiet break before you ride back down.

Combine the Ride

If you’re planning a longer day in the hills, this route pairs beautifully with nearby destinations:

• Mavrokolympos Dam – peaceful and scenic, just below Tala.
• Kathikas Village – for traditional tavernas and local wine.
• Tsada Village & Minthis Hills (upcoming) – for sweeping views and serene countryside roads.

These routes connect naturally, offering a full day of exploration through the most authentic parts of inland Paphos.

Tips for Visiting

Respect the quiet, this is still an active monastery. Wear modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered), and take your time exploring. The Enkleistra cave has a small, low entrance, so mind your head as you step in. Don’t forget your camera, the views from the courtyard stretch across the whole valley, especially beautiful at sunset.

Why It’s Worth the Climb

The ride to Agios Neophytos Monastery isn’t about ticking off another attraction, it’s about slowing down, listening, and feeling connected to something timeless. The monastery’s peaceful rhythm seeps into you long before you arrive, and the return journey feels lighter somehow, both in spirit and in pedal.

With your BiRide e-bike, it’s a journey of calm and discovery, part history, part nature, and all heart.