From Yerevan: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Haghartsin, Goshavank, Old Dilijan

Set out on a captivating journey from Yerevan to uncover the natural wonders and cultural gems of Armenia. Explore the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Sevan, the charming town of Dilijan, and the serene monasteries of Haghartsin and Goshavank. Wander through the quaint streets of Old Dilijan, where unique wooden houses and authentic Armenian craftsmanship await. This enchanting tour offers a chance to take in the country’s breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage. What hidden treasures await?

Key Points

• Explore the stunning turquoise waters and dramatic landscapes of Lake Sevan, Armenia’s largest body of water, with a picnic lunch and walking along the lakeside trail.

• Discover the "Armenian Switzerland" of Dilijan, a charming town nestled in lush, forested mountains, where visitors can see local artisans at work and enjoy optional activities like walking and horse riding.

• Immerse in the rich religious heritage of Armenia by visiting the historic 13th-century Haghartsin Monastery, with its intricate architectural details, khatchkars, and frescoes.

• Explore the 12th-century Goshavank Monastery, an architectural gem in a picturesque valley, and admire its ornate khatchkars and towering gavit entrance hall.

• Wander through the historic district of Old Dilijan, with its unique wooden houses featuring ornate balconies and artisan workshops offering handmade wares, for an authentic experience of Armenian culture.

Exploring Lake Sevan

One of the main highlights of the tour is exploring the scenic Lake Sevan, the largest body of water in Armenia.

Nestled in the mountains, the lake boasts stunning turquoise waters and dramatic landscapes. Visitors can wander along the shore, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and snapping photos of the picturesque Sevanavank Monastery.

The tour includes activities like walking along the lakeside trail, known as Lake Parz, and enjoying a picnic lunch with breathtaking vistas.

With its serene beauty and historical significance, Lake Sevan offers a glimpse into the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the region.

The Charm of Dilijan

After exploring the serene beauty of Lake Sevan, the tour moves on to the charming town of Dilijan, often referred to as the "Armenian Switzerland."

Nestled amidst the lush, forested mountains, Dilijan enchants visitors with its wooden balconies, local artisans, and a distinct cultural flair.

Travelers can wander through the town’s charming streets, witnessing carpenters, bakers, potters, and jewelers at work.

Optional activities like walking along Lake Parz and horse riding offer opportunities to immerse in the natural surroundings.

The town’s architectural gems, including the Goshavank Monastery, provide insights into Armenia’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Discovering Haghartsin Monastery

Leaving the charming town of Dilijan behind, the tour group ventures deeper into the lush, forested landscapes of Armenia. Their destination is the historic Haghartsin Monastery, a stunning 13th-century complex nestled in the serene mountains.

The guide leads the group through the monastery’s intricate architectural details, explaining the significance of the khatchkars (cross-stones) and frescoes that adorn the walls. Visitors are captivated by the tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to explore the scriptorium, refectory, and other monastic structures.

The tour provides valuable insights into Armenia’s rich religious heritage and the enduring legacy of the Haghartsin Monastery.

Visiting Goshavank Monastery

Departing the tranquil Haghartsin Monastery, the tour group heads towards the historic Goshavank Monastery. Nestled in a picturesque valley, this 12th-century architectural gem showcases the finest examples of Armenian ecclesiastical design. Visitors marvel at the intricate khatchkars (cross-stones) and admire the towering gavit (entrance hall) that sets the tone for the serene complex.

Feature	Description
Architecture	Ornate khatchkars, gavit entrance hall
History	Founded in 1188 AD
Highlights	Khatchkar carvings, monastic buildings
Activities	Guided tour, photography, explore grounds

The tour allows ample time to wander the grounds, snap photos, and learn about the monastery’s storied past from the knowledgeable guide.

Wandering Through Old Dilijan

As the tour group departs Goshavank Monastery, they venture towards the charming town of Old Dilijan.

Wandering through the historic district, visitors are captivated by the town’s unique architectural style. Wooden houses with ornate balconies line the streets, showcasing the local craftsmanship.

Artisan workshops dot the area, inviting travelers to explore handmade wares, such as:

1. Intricate woodcarvings
2. Vibrant textiles
3. Delicate pottery
4. Artisanal jewelry

The peaceful atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make Old Dilijan a highlight of the tour, allowing travelers to enjoy the authentic charm of Armenian culture.

Picnicking and Horse Riding

After exploring the charming streets of Old Dilijan, the tour group ventures out to the picturesque countryside surrounding Lake Sevan.

They stop for a leisurely picnic, enjoying the stunning lakeside views.

The group then has the option to go horseback riding, exploring the rolling hills and forests around the lake. This activity offers a unique way to take in the serene natural beauty of the region.

The guide provides instructions and ensures everyone’s safety during the horseback ride.

Afterwards, the group reunites to continue their journey, energized by the outdoor activities and scenic surroundings.

Architectural Highlights

The tour then turns its attention to the architectural highlights of the region, as the group visits the impressive Goshavank Monastery.

This 13th-century complex features:

1. Exquisite khatchkars (cross-stones) adorning the exterior walls.
2. The unique Catholicate Church with its ornate carvings and dome.
3. The impressive Scriptorium, where manuscripts were meticulously crafted.
4. Remnants of the original library, showcasing the site’s rich cultural heritage.

Next, the group explores the historical sites of Dilijan, marveling at the charming wooden balconies and learning about the region’s skilled artisans, from carpenters to jewelers.

Tour Logistics and Inclusions

Although the tour doesn’t accommodate wheelchair users due to the stairs at Sevanavank Monastery, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.

The tour includes a professional guide, transportation, food, drinks, and snacks. Travelers can expect a maximum group size of 50 people, with a start time of 9:00 am from 1a Sayat-Nova Ave, Yerevan.

Guests receive free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour offers bilingual options in English and Russian.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size Limit for This Tour?

The tour has a group size limit of 50 travelers. According to the overview, the maximum group size for this experience is 50 people.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Included Food?

The tour does not appear to have any special dietary requirements for the included food. The tour allows for a maximum group size of 50 travelers and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Can We Make Custom Requests for the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, travelers can make custom requests for the tour itinerary. The tour provider is generally flexible and willing to accommodate special requests, provided they’re feasible and don’t significantly alter the overall experience. Guests are encouraged to discuss any preferences when booking.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour offers flexible durations. Travelers can choose to extend the tour by adding more stops or spending more time at each location for an additional fee. This allows visitors to customize their experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior or Student Travelers?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts for senior or student travelers. However, the tour’s base price of $38 per person is already quite reasonable for the experiences included. Travelers can check if any promotional offers are available at the time of booking.

The Sum Up

From Yerevan, this captivating journey takes you to the turquoise waters of Lake Sevan, the charming town of Dilijan, and the historic monasteries of Haghartsin and Goshavank. Wander through the unique wooden houses of Old Dilijan, enjoy picnics and horse riding, and admire the architectural highlights. It’s an unforgettable exploration of Armenia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.