The Northern Pearl of Armenia

This route brings together high-altitude Lake Sevan, medieval monasteries and the green forests of Dilijan. In a single day the landscapes change several times — from the open shores of Sevan to the forest roads of Tavush and the small Lake Parz.

The journey begins at Lake Sevan, one of Armenia's main natural symbols.

The lake lies at an altitude of about 1,900 metres above sea level and is surrounded by mountain ranges. We will stop here to take in the panorama of Sevan and climb up onto the peninsula.

Sevanavank Monastery stands on the heights above.

The surviving churches of the monastic complex date from the 9th century. According to historical sources, the building of the monastery is linked to the Armenian princess Mariam, daughter of Ashot I Bagratuni.

Today Sevanavank is known not only for its history but also for its setting: the monastery grounds offer one of the most recognisable panoramas of Lake Sevan.

After Sevan we head for Dilijan. Along the way the scenery gradually changes — open mountain expanses give way to the dense forests of the Tavush region.

The next stop is Old Dilijan.

Walking through the historic part of the town you will see traditional houses with wooden balconies, small craft workshops and architecture that conveys the atmosphere of old Dilijan.

Next we travel into the forests of Dilijan National Park to Haghartsin Monastery.

The main part of the monastic complex took shape between the 10th and 13th centuries. Haghartsin was an important spiritual and cultural centre of medieval Armenia.

What makes this place special is the combination of architecture and nature. The stone churches stand almost in the middle of dense forest, so the atmosphere here changes with every season.

The next historical point on the route is Goshavank Monastery.

The monastic complex was founded at the end of the 12th century and is associated with Mkhitar Gosh, the outstanding Armenian thinker, scholar and jurist.

In the Middle Ages Goshavank was a major educational and cultural centre. Theology, philosophy and other sciences were studied here, and manuscripts were created and copied.

The famous Armenian khachkars — stone crosses with the finest carving — deserve particular attention.

After the rich historical part of the route we head to Lake Parz, set among the forests of Dilijan National Park.

The name Parz translates from Armenian as clear or transparent.

This small forest lake is surrounded by trees and mountains. Time is set aside here for a walk, a rest and photographs in nature.

It is here, in the forests by Lake Parz, that our journey through one of the greenest parts of Armenia comes to an end.

The route suits those who want to combine Armenia's nature and history in a single trip.

In one day you will see high-altitude Sevan, stroll through Old Dilijan, visit the medieval monasteries of Haghartsin and Goshavank, and finish the journey by the forest Lake Parz.

We especially recommend this route to lovers of lakes, forests, medieval architecture, quiet walks and beautiful natural scenery.