Discover Armenia: Monasteries, Nature and Hiking Trails

Monasteries and Churches with a History of Their Own

Haghpat Monastery was founded in 976 AD by Queen Khosrovanush, wife of the Armenian King Ashot III the Merciful. The complex includes the Church of St. Nshan, the oldest monument in the monastery. It was built between 976 and 991 AD. The closely spaced dates show how the history of the monastery and its oldest church can be read in the buildings themselves.

Sanahin also offers a glimpse into the different functions of a monastery: it served as an administrative center and family burial place for the Kyurikian Bagratids, and as the episcopal residence of the diocese until the 11th century. The complex includes three churches, vestibules, a scriptorium, a bell tower and an academy. At Geghard, in turn, most of the several churches and tombs are carved into the rock. The monastery illustrates a high point of medieval Armenian architecture and was an ecclesiastical and cultural center with a school, scriptorium and library. It has been continuously used as a monastery for many centuries.

Other buildings add to the picture of different eras: Etchmiadzin Cathedral was built in 301–303 AD. The Church of St. Gayane dates from 630 AD and combines a three-aisled basilica with a central dome. Zvartnots Cathedral was built in the mid-7th century and destroyed in the 10th century. These places offer different points of interest if you are interested in Armenian church architecture and history.

Hiking, Lake and Distinctive Landscapes

Those wishing to explore Armenia on foot can choose from both individual destinations and a long-distance trail. The Armenian National Trail stretches for more than 950 kilometers and connects five regions and 109 villages and towns. A 153-kilometer section in Lori Province is open to hikers; route descriptions are available on the HIKEArmenia website. The hiking season begins in April and lasts until November.

One specific hiking destination is Lake Gosh: it can be reached via a steep trail of about 3 kilometers and is surrounded by the dense forests of Dilijan National Park. Take the incline into account when planning your day. The Symphony of Stones has a different natural character. This natural monument in the gorge of the Asat River features stones that resemble a musical instrument—an organ. Sevanavank Monastery is located on Lake Sevan in Gegharkunik Province; the lake itself is a high-altitude freshwater lake and a distinctive natural attraction. Tsaghkadzor Ski Resort offers opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.

Regional Cuisine and Wine Routes

Lavash, a traditional thin flatbread, is an essential part of Armenian cuisine. It is prepared in a traditional conical clay oven. Wine is another regional discovery: Armenia has several wine routes that combine hands-on experiences with wine production and tasting. The Vayots Dzor Wine Route includes stops at wineries. There, visitors can taste local wine and learn more about wine production in the region. If you are more interested in culture and food than hiking, these themes may be the deciding factor when choosing a region for your stay.

Getting There and Finding Your Way Around the Regions

Armenia can be reached by air or by land; overland routes are available from Iran and Georgia. Armenia has two international airports: Zvartnots in the capital, Yerevan, and Shirak in the cultural capital, Gyumri. Visitor centers in Yerevan and throughout the country provide information about destinations and nearby attractions. When choosing accommodation, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your trip: monasteries and history, hiking, the landscape around Lake Sevan or a wine route, for example. This will help you tailor your regional search to your interests without prematurely planning different experiences as a short combined route.

For further regional information: Ararat, Syunik, Vayots Dzor, Kotayk, Gegharkunik, Armavir, Lori, Vayots Dzor, Tavush, Aragatsotn, Shirak and Yerevan.