Guided Armenia Walking Holiday

How about feeling like Moses for a day, leading the Jewish nation through the Red Sea? That's precisely where our tour will take our adventure-seeking spirits — to Angels' Canyon. Legend has it that a river once flowed through the canyon, changing course over time and leaving behind a stunningly beautiful natural sculpture. If the "Symphony of Stones" resulted from a volcanic eruption, then the canyon is a river's imprint on the Earth.

See how nature plays its games in Armenia! Although compact, this unique canyon, with its yellow-red rocks and boulders, not only offers breathtaking beauty and an air of mystery but also boasts therapeutic properties, including healing mineral waters. After our hike, we'll transfer to the town of Yeghegadzor for rest and an overnight stay. The Vayots Dzor region is famed for its wine production, so don't miss the chance to purchase some excellent local wines from nearby wineries.

Hiking distance: 10km, Elevation gain: 952m, Route type: Loop

Driving time: 3.5 hours

As our adventure-seeking souls continue to yearn for excitement, we'll next set our sights on climbing the high mountains. Historically, the Armenian highlands have been seen as a divine realm. It was believed that the higher the church or temple, the closer one was to God and the more likely their prayers would be heard. This is precisely the path we'll be treading.

Starting from the village of Vernashen, we'll make our way to the Spitakavor Monastery, nestled high among the mountains. The trail to the monastery is more challenging than the leisurely route to Angels’ Canyon, but the rewards are well worth the effort. The rugged terrain, with its breathtaking rocks and gorges, offers us a wonderful opportunity not only to admire the local flora but also to encounter bezoar goats, native to the region.

Reaching the Spitakavor Monastery, our destination, will enrich our journey further. There, we'll take time to explore the main church, with its intricate sculptures and reliefs. This hike promises a profound blend of cultural and regional discovery, making it an unforgettable part of our adventure.

Hiking distance: 4km, Elevation gain: 2185m, Route type: Loop

Driving time: One hour

Next our journey brings us to the jewel of Armenia—Lake Sevan and its surrounding mountains. Here we get off the beaten path and climb Mount Armaghan, an extinct volcano close to Lake Sevan. It's a challenging hike, but the stunning views over the Geghama Mountains and Lake Sevan, Armenia’s largest lake, make it well worthwhile.

In the evening, we'll take a scenic drive along Lake Sevan, heading to Dilijan where our comfortable hotel awaits. This part of the journey offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and culinary delight, encapsulating the essence of Armenia.

Hiking distance: 8.5km, Elevation gain: 605 m, Route type: Loop

Driving time: 3.5 hours

Today we take a delightful turn from the rugged terrains of bare mountains and rocky canyons to the lush forests of the Tavush region. We will tread through a serene forest trail, leading us to the enchanting Lastiver Waterfalls. The path, while easy, offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. At times, the trail skims the edge of a seemingly bottomless canyon, providing awe-inspiring vistas as we approach the Lastiver waterfalls.

Here, we'll take a moment to pause and enjoy a refreshing herbal tea, soaking in the natural beauty around us. After our break, we will hike back to the trailhead leading to Yell Extreme Park. This park offers a variety of activities for the adventurous at heart, including a rope park, horse riding, and the longest zip-line in Armenia, promising an exhilarating end to our day.

In the evening, we'll drive to the quaint village of Dsegh, where we will rest and spend the night. This day promises a perfect blend of tranquility and thrill, set amidst the lush landscapes of Armenia.

Hiking distance: 7km, Elevation gain: 296 m, Route type: Loop

Driving time: 1.5 hours

As our journey progresses we head towards northern Armenia—specifically, the Lori region, known for its dramatic geographical contrasts. Our trail today is moderate in difficulty and begins in a quaint village named after one of Armenia’s greatest writers. This path will lead us to the most renowned village of Lori.

Our route is adorned with breathtaking valleys and stunning mountains, accompanied throughout by the Debed River—Lori’s wildest and most famous river. Along the way, we'll pause at the 13th-century Bardzrakash St. Gregory Monastery. Although now in ruins, this site was once a crucial gathering point for the region.

Our trail concludes in the village of Dsegh, celebrated for its vibrant traditions, folk dances, welcoming people, and rich cultural heritage nestled among the mountains. This day offers a profound connection to the history and spirit of northern Armenia.

Hiking distance: 10km, Elevation gain: 583m, Route type: Point to point

Driving time: One hour

Today we'll enjoy a change of pace with a leisurely walk around the tranquil Aparan reservoir. This secluded spot, cut off from villages and roads, serves as a sanctuary for birds and various small animals. During our walk, there's a good chance we'll explore the ruins of Saint Poghos Petros Church, which sits enchantingly surrounded by water in the spring when the reservoir fills after the winter snowfall.

The surrounding pine tree forest and the towering peaks of Mount Aragats on the horizon, reflected in the reservoir's serene blue waters, add a special tranquility to the area. We will take a moment to enjoy a boxed lunch here, basking in the natural beauty and quiet. In the evening, we'll drive back to Yerevan, where we'll settle in our hotel and prepare for the next day's adventure: hiking Mount Aragats itself.

Hiking distance: 6.5km, Elevation gain: 175 m, Route type: Loop

Driving time: Three hours

Today we embrace the challenge by attempting to climb the highest peak in the country—Mount Aragats. Although our trail begins at an elevation of 3,250 meters above sea level, it is often blanketed with snow, creating a refreshingly crisp atmosphere, dependent on the season. Our ascent starts near Lake Kari (Stone Lake), a setting enhanced by surrounding alpine meadows, the crisp mountain air, a variety of wildflowers, and views of Aragats’ snowy peaks.

The journey to the southern peak of Aragats is a conquering one. Given the cold and isolated nature of the area, it is rare to encounter other people on this path. However, after hiking for three or more hours, we will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of a vast crater and the mountain's other three peaks. On clear days, the summit of Aragats South offers a spectacular view of the biblical Mount Ararat, providing a truly unforgettable highlight of our adventure.

Hiking distance: 5.2km, Elevation gain: 690m, Route type: Loop

Driving time: Two hours

Saving the best for last we'll explore Yerevan, the pink marvel of Armenia. As one of the oldest cities in the world, Yerevan captivates visitors, not least with the impressive Mother Armenia statue perched on a high hill, symbolising the spirit of the Armenian people and offering a panoramic view over the city.

Yerevan would not be complete without a visit to the Cascade Complex and Northern Avenue. This area reveals the most modern and stylish side of Yerevan, bustling with contemporary cafes, restaurants, shops, and design. A leisurely walk from Cascade to Northern Avenue brings us to the heart of the capital, Republic Square.

Yet, our day isn't complete without exploring Armenia's largest wine and brandy factory, featuring the famous Ararat brandy and its accompanying museum. As evening falls, we will gather for a farewell dinner, a fitting conclusion to our journey through Armenia's stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry.

Your last morning in Armenia. After breakfast with your new friends you'll transfer to the airport. Armenia was happy to have you here, come back to the Caucasus soon!