High up in the Troodos Massif is the tiny village of Platres, which hums with visitors both local and foreign in the summer when the coast temperatures start to sizzle.
This is the ultimate high-hills resort, which first found favor during the British colonial period and has played host to numerous famous heat-escapees including King Farouk of Egypt. Today, it's a favored bolt-hole for hikers and nature-lovers attracted by the lush and beautiful Troodos Mountains.
Despite the onset of tourism, the village has hung on to much of its traditional character. The narrow streets are rimmed with well-preserved, sturdy stone houses; many sporting creaky overhanging balconies.
