From Pentalia to Polemi
A few weeks ago we produced a rather long film, showing a drive from Pentalia to Polemi. I was going to do a sped-up version, but I found the full version quite relaxing, especially with the soothing soundtrack, so I have left it alone. People were curious as to the route we took, so I retraced our steps, and stopped to take some photographs along the way...
In The Beginning...
We start here, on the Nata - Panagia road, at the Galataria junction. We've just come up from the Xeros Valley, and are heading back to our home in Polemi. Turn left here. But before you do that, park up and go and have a look at the view by the abandoned coffee shop.
Distant Ayios Fotios
If you look carefully, you can see a village in the distance. That's the abandoned village of Ayios Fotios. We blogged about it some time ago, and is well worth a visit. Indeed, if you download our first road trip eBook, it travels through there and its sister abandoned village, Statos. Happily, if that is the correct word, these villages were not abandoned because of the troubles. Instead, the threat of landslides after excess rain forced the authorities to relocate the two villages, and a third village - Statos Ayios Fotios - was born. if you are in the area in the late summer, they have a corker of a festival there.
Summer Is Here
Meanwhile, the fennel and orchids have been replaced by more robust, summer flowers, and the landscape is golden brown.
Towards New Pentalia
Once you have enjoyed the view, continue down the road. You can stay on this all the way to Paphos, but we will be turning right far sooner than that.
Distant Asprokremmos
Soon, on your left, you will be able to see distant vistas of the Asprokremmos. Beyond that, to the left of this picture, you will be able to see the wind farm. Well, on a clear day you can, anyway.