January is a busy time in the vineyards of Cyprus
The countryside of Paphos district on the western slopes of the Troodos is wine growing country. Villages like Stroupi, Polemi and Fyti are surrounded by many vineyards.
The situation is changing. Apparently EU Grants no longer favour viticulture, so many of the vines are being ripped up to grow other crops. Despite that, there are still many, many vineyards, and January is a busy time for the farmers.
The surfaces of the vineyards are turned over to stop the growth of weeds, and then the vines themselves are pruned to encourage new, fruit-bearing growth this season.
These vines were photographed near Fyti, a delightful little village about half way between Paphos and the Troodos. With two cafes to relax in, an ideal stopping off point.
