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Tucked away on a hillside overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean, Viklari Restaurant (also known as The Last Castle) is a hidden treasure on the Akamas Peninsula in Paphos. It’s the kind of place you stumble upon during a road trip and never forget. With its rustic charm, panoramic views, and simple, hearty menu, Viklari serves up more than just food—it dishes out a true slice of Cypriot culture.
Whether you’re hiking through the stunning Akamas National Park or taking a scenic drive from Paphos, this relaxed eatery offers a memorable stop to indulge in authentic Cyprus food. The setting? Think stone tables, open-air dining under vine-shaded pergolas, and a view that’ll knock your flip-flops off.
When it comes to Cyprus food, nothing hits the mark quite like souvla. This national dish of Cyprus is what Cypriots truly love—and at Viklari, they do it the old-school way.
Souvla consists of large chunks of meat (usually pork or chicken) slow-cooked on a spit over charcoal. It’s smoky, juicy, and deeply satisfying.
The menu at Viklari is blissfully simple: pork souvla, chicken souvla, or a mix of both.
Feeling fancy? Ask for grilled chicken instead of the spit-roasted version. It’s more tender and juicy, but you need to request it—a little insider tip.
You’ll also get a generous Cypriot salad topped with creamy feta, wedge-cut chips that are golden and crisp, plus fresh bread on the side.
The only wine option is the house wine, served in rustic garrafs (carafes). Is it the best wine you’ll ever taste? Probably not. But it’s drinkable and pairs just fine with grilled meat under the Cyprus sun.
What makes souvla more than just a dish is its role in Cypriot culture. It’s not something you cook up on a busy weeknight. Souvla is for Sundays, for family gatherings, for celebrations that stretch from noon into the golden light of sunset. You’ll find it sizzling over charcoal at name-day parties, baptisms, and Easter picnics across the island.
The act of cooking souvla is as much a social event as the eating. Someone—usually dad or pappou—is in charge of the rotation, patiently tending to the spit and ensuring the meat is basted and crisped just right.
It’s typically seasoned only with salt, oregano, and lemon. No fancy marinades, no fuss. Just fire, smoke, and time.
Bread is often toasted directly on the coals, soaking up those meat juices, while the salad is picked fresh and roughly chopped at the table.
Plates are shared, wine is poured freely, and laughter echoes across patios and gardens.
When you sit down for souvla, you’re joining in a ritual as old as Cyprus itself. That’s the beauty of Viklari—it doesn’t just serve souvla, it channels the entire spirit of a Cypriot feast.
One of Viklari’s biggest draws is the view. You’re perched high above the coast, looking out across the lush expanse of the Akamas National Park and the endless blue of the sea.
Picture this: you’re sitting at a weathered stone table with a chunk of bread in one hand and a forkful of souvla in the other, soaking in the sun and salty breeze.
The rustic vibe is strong—no polished silverware or fine china here, and honestly, it’s better that way.
Viklari is not in a typical touristy spot. You can reach it by car (just be ready for some bumpy dirt roads), or if you’re feeling active, you can hike up through the trails of the Akamas region.
Wear good shoes if you’re walking—the paths can be rocky.
Don’t worry if you didn’t book in advance. While reservations are smart during high season, the place is spacious enough to accommodate walk-ins most of the time.
Service here is friendly and unpretentious. The staff are quick with a smile and happy to recommend a mix plate or offer that juicy grilled chicken if you ask.
You won’t find a printed menu—everything is explained verbally. That’s part of the charm.
The meal ends with a traditional sweet touch: candied fruits, also known as confit, served alongside your last sips of wine.
Cypriot cuisine is a true mosaic of influences—Greek, Middle Eastern, and even touches of Italian—shaped by centuries of history and Mediterranean tradition. It’s rustic yet refined, built on humble ingredients like olive oil, grains, herbs, and fresh produce. At its core, Cyprus food is all about family, connection, and generosity.
Meze culture is at the heart of Cypriot dining—small plates served in succession, creating a rhythm of flavours and textures. It’s not just about eating; it’s about sharing.
Halloumi, the famous semi-hard cheese made from sheep and goat’s milk, is a national pride. Grilled, fried, or fresh—it’s always a hit.
Kleftiko, a slow-roasted lamb dish wrapped in parchment and baked for hours, showcases Cyprus’s love for patient, soulful cooking.
Loukoumades, sweet fried dough balls drizzled with honey or syrup, are commonly served at festivals and family feasts.
Fresh herbs like oregano, mint, and thyme are everyday staples, while citrus fruits, particularly lemons, find their way into dressings, marinades, and desserts.
What makes Cyprus food special is how it brings people together. Meals are unhurried affairs, often stretching for hours, where conversation flows as freely as the village wine. Whether you’re in a countryside taverna or by the sea, you’ll find the same Cypriot warmth in every bite.
There’s a reason locals and travellers alike flock to Viklari. It nails the essence of Cyprus food with honesty and heart. No fuss, no frills—just fresh, local ingredients cooked over fire and served with a view.
It celebrates the national dish of Cyprus with pride.
The atmosphere makes you slow down and really savour the moment.
Prices are fair, portions are generous, and the setting is postcard-perfect.
Here’s what to expect when you sit down at Viklari:
Pork Souvla – Chargrilled perfection with that smoky, traditional flavour.
Chicken Souvla or Grilled Chicken – Ask for grilled if you like it extra juicy.
Village Salad – Tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and a slab of feta on top.
Wedge-Cut Chips – Not your average fries. These are thick, crispy, and addictive.
Bread – Freshly baked and perfect for mopping up juices.
Confit Fruits – A sweet Cypriot tradition to end the meal.
House Wine by the Garraf – Simple, rustic, and part of the whole experience.
To make the most of your visit:
Book ahead if you’re going on a weekend. Especially during tourist season.
Ask for grilled chicken if you want the juiciest cut.
Wear comfy shoes if you’re walking up—it’s a bit of a trek.
Bring a camera because those views are begging for a photo.
Just beyond the rustic stone walls of Viklari lies the pristine wilderness of Akamas National Park, one of the last unspoiled coastal regions in Cyprus. It’s a true sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of rugged terrain, serene beaches, and spectacular biodiversity.
Start with the Smigies Nature Trail, a well-marked loop that grants panoramic views of the Chrysochou Bay and the Akamas coastline. The air here smells of pine and wild herbs—utterly refreshing.
For a more adventurous hike, try the Aphrodite or Adonis trails. These moderate-level routes take you past historic ruins, secluded bays, and botanical wonders including rare orchids and juniper forests.
Don’t miss Lara Beach, a nesting ground for endangered green and loggerhead turtles. It’s a little slice of paradise that combines relaxation with wildlife spotting.
The Baths of Aphrodite, another nearby landmark, is steeped in local legend. It’s said to be where the goddess Aphrodite bathed—and you’ll understand why once you see the magical setting.
Pack water, wear sturdy shoes, and bring a sunhat. Trails can range from easy walks to steep climbs, but every step rewards you with natural beauty. Whether you’re a passionate hiker or a casual stroller, Akamas is a paradise for nature lovers—and Viklari is the perfect pit stop to refuel.
A short drive—or even a scenic hike for the adventurous—takes you from Viklari to Avakas Gorge, a natural wonder carved over millennia by water flowing through limestone.
The entrance is lush and green, with oleanders and tall reeds lining the trail. As you walk further in, the gorge narrows dramatically.
Expect towering cliffs, some stretching up 30 metres above you, and cool shaded paths that offer relief on hot days.
The terrain varies, so expect some rock-hopping, minor climbs, and even small stream crossings depending on the season.
Birdwatchers and nature lovers often spot endemic plants, rare butterflies, and sometimes even falcons gliding overhead.
Close by, you’ll find other hidden gems like the Agios Georgios Pegeia chapel overlooking the sea and the sea caves near Coral Bay. The entire region is perfect for a day of exploring, snapping photos, and appreciating Cyprus beyond the beaches.
Start with a morning hike through the gorge, then head to Viklari for a feast, and spend your afternoon on a cliff-top watching the waves roll in. It’s a day in Paphos you won’t forget.
Viklari Restaurant is a love letter to Cyprus food and its beloved national dish, souvla. It’s a no-nonsense place with big flavours, breathtaking scenery, and an authentic atmosphere that feels like a step back in time. Whether you’re a visitor looking for real Cypriot culture or a local in the know, this place hits all the right notes.
So next time you’re in Paphos, take the road less travelled. Whether by car or on foot, make your way to Viklari. Order the souvla. Sip the wine. Breathe in the view. And taste Cyprus the way it was meant to be.
1. Do I need a reservation at Viklari Restaurant?
Not always, but it’s a good idea during weekends or high season. The place is big enough to welcome walk-ins most days.
2. What’s the best way to get there?
You can drive (expect dirt roads) or walk through Akamas Park. Either way, it’s a scenic journey worth making.
3. Is souvla the only thing on the menu?
Pretty much, yes—but they do it brilliantly. You can request grilled chicken too.
4. What makes souvla special?
It’s the national dish of Cyprus and a true local favourite. Slow-cooked over charcoal, it’s simple, smoky, and satisfying.
5. Is the wine any good?
It’s decent and served in carafes. Don’t expect vintage quality, but it does the job and suits the rustic vibe perfectly.
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