At a time when tourism is called to redefine its values and practices, the heart of Cyprus beats strongly in Troodos. Guided by innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, Troodos Hotel leads the digital and green transformation of the region through the European project PEAK – Pioneering Ecotourism and Activity-based Knowledge.
PEAK is an important initiative of the European program fuTOURiSME, aiming to empower tourism SMEs through a twin transformation: digitization and sustainability. The project is coordinated by the Troodos Network and is an initiative of the National Champion (for the European Rural Parliament), including the effort and authorship of the application.
Troodos Hotel: From traditional refuge to experiential tourism hub
Troodos Hotel, with its historic presence in the Troodos square, is being transformed into a model of sustainability and experience. Through PEAK, the business:
· Integrates digital technology into its daily operations and promotion.
· Proceeds with EMAS certification – the strict European environmental management regulation.
· Enriches its tourism offering with themed workshops based on pine (aromatherapy, soap, tea, handicrafts).
· Collaborates with local businesses, cultural, and nature-loving organizations to offer complete experience packages.
Digital upgrade to highlight the holistic experience
One of the most innovative tools of the project is the development of a 360° virtual tour of the hotel, its cluster providers, and 15 points of interest in Troodos. This tool will cover:
· All hotel areas and services (SPA, hammam, restaurant, rooms).
· Mountain sports (hiking, cycling, climbing, skiing), with QR codes on-site.
· Presentation in multiple languages (Greek – English), targeting an international audience.
The use of QR codes allows visitors to navigate in real time, receive information, and make bookings for activities and wellness packages. The experience becomes personalized and interactive, fully connecting nature, technology, and culture.
Nature as a field of action and renewal
Troodos Hotel serves as a base for excursions into the natural landscape. Through PEAK, access and quality of services are enhanced in:
· Hiking and cycling trails with e-bikes.
· Climbing and mountaineering with certified guides.
· Winter sports (skiing – snowboarding).
· Bird watching, within the context of ecotourism awareness.
All outdoor activities are combined with relaxation and rejuvenation services at the hotel’s SPA and hammam, creating a wellness and adventure package, both physical and spiritual.
Cultural events and collaborations through cluster
With the support of the Culture Cluster, established within the framework of PEAK, Troodos Hotel assumes a new role as a cultural reference point. Through synergies with artists and local creators, the following are planned:
· Musical evenings
· Themed weekends dedicated to local cuisine and the natural character of the area.
Thus, the hotel operates not only as accommodation but also as a space for cultural discovery, enhancing the visitor's connection with the place.
Troodos as a model for all of Europe
The success of PEAK does not concern only local development. The project is presented as a model of experiential, sustainable, and innovative tourism for other European mountainous regions. Its methodology — based on partnerships (clusters) and green transition — shows how tourism can:
· Support the local economy.
· Preserve cultural identity.
· Upgrade infrastructure and the skills of SMEs.
Troodos Hotel, through its collaboration with the Troodos Network and A.D DigitalX, innovates, inspires, and opens new paths for rural tourism. PEAK is more than just a program; it is a vision for the future, where nature, culture, and technology come together to offer lasting experiences.
