Mavrokolympos Dam – A Quiet Ride Into the Hills

When you’ve had your fill of the beach and fancy a change of scene, the Mavrokolympos Dam is the perfect escape. Just inland from Coral Bay & Beyond, this peaceful reservoir sits among pine-covered slopes and open countryside, a calm, scenic pocket of nature that feels worlds away from the coast.

It’s a favourite spot for e-bike riders who enjoy wide views, quiet roads, and the feeling of being completely off the tourist trail.

Note: At the moment, the reservoir is dry. The dam has been leaking, and the government plans to carry out restoration works. Even without water, it remains a scenic, peaceful area that’s worth the ride for its views and tranquillity.

The Setting – Nature, Silence & Still Water

Built in the 1960s to support local farming, the Mavrokolympos Dam has since become one of the Paphos area’s most tranquil landmarks. The water mirrors the sky, cliffs shift colour with the light, and in spring, wildflowers line the path down to the banks.

You might see herons gliding low over the water or a few locals fishing in silence. There are no cafés, shops, or crowds here, just the sound of wind in the pines and the crunch of gravel under your tyres.

It’s simple, unspoiled Cyprus at its best.

The Ride – From Coast to Countryside

The route to the dam is one of the most enjoyable short countryside rides around Paphos. From Coral Bay, you’ll pass banana plantations, rural backroads, and the gentle slopes that rise towards the reservoir. It’s about 10 km each way, easy to reach yet far enough to feel like an adventure.

Bring a hybrid or mountain e-bike for comfort, especially near the water where the surface turns to gravel. The final stretch is a little uneven, but the views make every turn worthwhile. With your BiRide e-bike doing the hard work, you can focus on what’s around you, the scent of pine, birds overhead, and the soft hum of the motor as the coast fades behind you.

What to Do When You Arrive

There’s no set itinerary here, that’s the beauty of it. Once you reach the dam, take your time:

• Pause for the view from the dam wall or nearby ridge.
• Unpack a small picnic and enjoy the quiet.
• Watch for wildlife, from herons to the occasional turtle in the shallows.
• Snap a few photos when the light hits the water just right.

No facilities, no signs, no stress, just space to slow down and breathe.

Extend the Adventure

If you’ve still got battery and daylight to spare, Mavrokolympos links naturally to other countryside routes:

• Avakas Gorge – dramatic rock formations and raw natural beauty.
• Kathikas Village – a cool mountain stop for wine, food, and old-village charm.

These routes combine easily for a relaxed full-day ride that showcases the best of inland Paphos.

Local Tips

• Morning and late afternoon rides offer softer light and cooler air.
• Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen, there’s nowhere to buy supplies.
• Fully charge your e-bike; the return includes a steady climb.
• Spring and early autumn are especially scenic, with wildflowers and clear skies.

Why Riders Love It

Mavrokolympos isn’t a destination for sightseeing, it’s a place for stillness. The kind of spot where you sit for a moment, look out across the water, and realise how easy it is to forget about everything else.

With a BiRide e-bike, getting there is effortless. You just follow the quiet road, leave the coast behind, and find yourself in one of the most peaceful corners of Cyprus.