Xylofagou: Hotels for Culture and Coastal Experiences

Xylofagou is one of the Kokkinochoria, the “red soil villages.” It has a rural character and features coastal caves. If you are looking for a hotel in Xylofagou, you can plan your stay around whether you are mainly interested in village history, coastal scenery, diving or a route. These themes differ considerably: in the village centre there is a restored church, underwater the landscape is shaped by rock formations and caves, and the routes described lead to a watchtower or the outskirts of the village. When making your choice, it is therefore helpful to consider your specific interests and the landscape that suits them.

Church and Village History

The restored 15th-century Church of Agios Georgios is in the village centre and preserves frescoes. These wall paintings add a distinctive artistic dimension to the historic church building. The Chapel of Panagia tou Syrmatou overlooks the sea. Together, these are two distinct cultural landmarks: the church in the village centre and the chapel with its sea views.

Skopia and the Underwater Landscape

The coastal area of Skopia in Xylofagou is described as a diving route. The route reaches depths of 1 to 18 metres and includes a range of depths and entry points. According to the description, it is suitable for inexperienced divers and snorkellers. The deepest spots are just over 18 metres and are intended for experienced divers. The range described therefore extends from different entry points and depth zones to significantly deeper spots; conditions may vary. Underwater, the landscape is shaped by rock walls, crevices of varying lengths and heights, geomorphological formations and, in places, Posidonia seagrass meadows.

Another coastal feature is the Mavrospilios sea cave. It has stalactites and stalagmites; its entrance lies about three metres below the sea surface and is accessible only to divers. Unlike Skopia, which is characterised by different depth zones and entry points, Mavrospilios is distinguished by its underwater entrance. This difference helps you understand the diving route and the cave as distinct experiences.

Caves and Paleontological Finds

The caves also represent Xylofagou’s natural history. At the Cave of Eglezou, British palaeontologist Dorothy Bate found fossils in 1903. Fossilised hippopotamus bones were discovered at the Cave of Agioi Saranta. The finds point to two different caves and distinct discoveries: at Eglezou, the discoverer and year are known, while at Agioi Saranta, the type of find is known. Together, they add a paleontological perspective on the village to its coastal and underwater landscape.

Coastal Coves and Routes

Near Cape Pyla are coastal coves and sea caves in Xylofagou. They can be reached from the small fishing harbour or as part of a guided kayak tour. If you are planning a guided tour, it is best to check current dates and booking options in advance.

Two routes also lead to different landmarks. 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 first route is described by its length and the watchtower as its destination, while the second is characterised by its course as a cycling route to the village outskirts. Check current route conditions before planning a ride.

Discover more destinations: Xylotymvou, Larnaka, Aradippou, Mazotos, Maroni, Lageia, Kellia, Alethriko.

For the overview of the wider area: Larnaca.