From Yerevan: Lake Sevan and Dilijan Full-Day Tour

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ID: GYG384665-696080
Category:
Country: Armenia

Duration: 10:00 hours


Description

On this 10-hour tour visit Lake Sevan, the pearl of this mountainous country and one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in Eurasia. Next visit Dilijan, often referred to as "Armenian Switzerland" for its fantastic natural forests.
Spend a day enjoying the stunning natural scenery and ancient monasteries of north-western Armenia. Check out a volcanic lake surrounded by mountains, admire the majestic lake-front Sevanavank Monastery, and see how nature blends with the architecture of the Haghartsin Monastery. Learn the stories of these historic places in English, Russian, and, depending on availability, in Armenian.

The first stop is Sevan Lake, which at 1,900-meters above sea level is one of the world's greatest high-altitude freshwater lakes. The lake is of volcanic origin and is surrounded by mountains of 3,000 meters and higher. Admire the beautiful landscape and the crystal waters as well as the medieval church complex built on the peninsula in 874.

The next stop is Sevanavank Monastery, which was built on the peninsula in 874 by the order of King Ashot Bagratuni's daughter, Princess Mariam. The silhouette of the church against the background of the turquoise lake and blue sky is sure to impress. 

Continue to Dilijan, a city on the banks of the Aghstev River surrounded by mountains and forests. Dilijan has the fame of a health resort as its warm sun, fresh air, and natural spas have a great healing influence on people.

Take a break to have lunch at a cozy nearby restaurant before continuing to Goshavank Monastery, founded by the famous medieval scientist Mkhitar Gosh. The complex consists of several religious and secular buildings. Make sure to stop and admire the khachkar (Armenian cross-stone) situated in front of the basilica. One of the most famous Armenian symbols, this khachkar was carved by the skillful master Poghos in 1291.

The last stop is Haghartsin Monastery, situated in the woodlands of the Tavush Region. Founded in the 10th-11th centuries, it consists of St. Grigor, St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), and St. Stepanos churches. The huge oak tree, which is almost the same age as the monastery, completes the whole scene and is a great example of architecture blending with nature over the years. The monastery has been recently renovated by the donation of Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qassimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, who was impressed by the monastery when visiting it.

After a day full of exploring, return to the meeting point in an air-conditioned van.

Highlights

  • Visit the largest freshwater high-altitude lake in Eurasia
  • Admire the forests of the "Armenian Switzerland"
  • Explore the most popular monasteries in Armenia

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• This tour involves a 200-steps climb to Sevanavank and a 600-meter walk down the hill to Haghartsin
• Seats are not fixed in advance
All required protective equipment is provided
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
You will receive a mandatory temperature check
Please arrive at the meeting point 15-30 minutes before the activity starts for check-in and to select your preferred seats.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED

When should I book?

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.


Cancellations

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 48 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 48 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.