The region east of Mount Olympos is known as the Pitsillia area and includes about 30 villages. Its tallest peaks are Madari (1.612 metres) and Papoutsa (1.554 metres). The picturesque villages nestle on the mountainside amid vineyards, or are hidden in valleys, maintaining much of their traditional charm. The surrounding hills and valleys are full of vines, as well as almond, hazelnut, walnut and other fruit trees, making autumn a glorious medley of colours. The changing landscape, the variety of shapes and colours, the old churches and chapels and the warm hospitality of the inhabitants make the Pitsilia region one of the most beautiful parts of Cyprus.The area is also known for its traditional products such as aromatic rosewater, 'hiromeri' (smoked ham), 'loukanika' (spicy smoked sausages) and 'lountza' (smoked fillet of pork).

The Pitsillia area is accessible either from Lemesos (Limassol), or from Lefkosia (Nicosia).

This area has four of the famous Byzantine churches on the World Heritage list –  The Church of the Transfiguration of the Saviour (tou Sotiros) at Palaichori, the Church of Stavros tou Agiasmati at Platanistasa, the Church of Timios Stavros (Church of the Holy Cross) in the village of Pelendri and the church of Panagia tou Araka in the village of Lagoudhera.

Two of the main villages of the area are Agros and Palaichori. Agros is in the heart of the Pitsilia region situated in a beautiful valley with a dry climate and cool springs and is a popular resort all the year round with several hotels and restaurants. It is a great starting point for hiking and biking.

The village of Palaichori, as its name implies (‘palaio’ meaning old), is a very old village with cobbled streets. It has two very interesting Byzantine churches, a Byzantine museum and a shady square.