Hiking on Armenia's Transcaucasian Trail

Today we visit the 13th-century Noravank Monastery, renowned for its stunning architecture and cultural carvings, set amidst dramatic red rock gorges. The 2.8 km medium difficulty trail begins at the monastery and winds through the Gnishik River Canyon. This area is rich in biodiversity, home to 900 plant species and 525 animal species, including some endemic to Armenia. After our hike, we'll transfer to Yeghegnadzor for the night, located in the Vayots Dzor region, famous for its wine production. Be sure to sample some local wines!

Included activities:

• Noravank Monastery visit
• Gnishik River Canyon Trail

Hiking:

• Distance: 2.8 km, Elevation: 1560 m, Route: Loop

Starting in the semi-abandoned village of Old Martiros, this 6.5 km trail takes us through mountains and lakes, returning to the village. Dating back to 1283, Old Martiros is home to a khachkar (carved stone cross) marking its foundation. We will pass the Holy Mother of Cave Church, located in a cave beneath Mount Nazar, and continue to Chumov Lake, a scenic spot especially beautiful in summer. Our hike concludes back in the village.

Included Activities:

• Holy Mother of Cave Church visit
• Mount Nazar pass
• Lake Chumov trail

Hiking:

• Distance: 6.5 km, Elevation: 2052 m, Route: Loop

Today’s hike, known as the "Stairways to Heaven", offers a harmonious blend of natural and man-made wonders. Starting from the village of Kapuyt, we follow part of the historic Silk Road. We can either take the Arch Trail, featuring medieval khachkars, or continue through the canyon. The rocky terrain and steep paths provide a good workout, with natural spring waters to refresh us. The trail ends with breathtaking views over the highlands.

Included Activities:

• Silk Road pass

Hiking:

• Distance: 14.2 km, Elevation: 2531 m, Route: Loop

Today, we follow the historic "Old Bandit Road", a 15.9 km route that traverses lush forests and scenic cliff paths. The trail connects the villages of Gomk and Artavan, featuring towering rocks, endemic flora, and man-made stone steps. Near Artavan, we'll find remnants of the old bandit camps hidden in the forest.

Included Activities:

• Old Bandit road pass

Hiking:

• Distance: 15.9 km, Elevation: 2532 m, Route: Loop

We'll take a break from hiking and head to the northeastern part of Armenia. On our way to Dilijan, we'll stop at the 13th-century Selim Caravanserai, once a rest stop for Silk Road traders. We'll visit a village with the largest collection of khachkars, taste unique cheeses at a local farm, and explore the 9th-12th century Hayravank Monastery by Lake Sevan. Our final destination is Dilijan, often called the "Armenian Switzerland", known for its stunning nature and cultural sites.

Included Activities:

• Selim Caravanserai stop
• Cheese tasting at a family farm
• Hayravank Monastery visit
• Dilijan tour

We explore Dilijan National Park, one of Armenia's most popular destinations. Our 14 km trail winds through lush forests and can start either from Parz Lake or Dilijan city. Along the way, we will see a beautiful array of wildflowers, especially vibrant in late spring and early summer. The trail offers camping spots and traverses heavily wooded areas.

Included Activities:

• Dilijan National Park trail

Hiking:

• Distance: 14.1 km, Elevation: 1749 m, Route: Loop

From the village of Khachardzan, we hike to Gosh Lake in Dilijan National Park. Surrounded by thick forests, the lake offers a perfect spot for camping. The trail provides stunning autumn colours and a serene atmosphere, making it a unique experience. Tonight, we camp by the lake.

Included Activities:

• Gosh Lake spot
• Camp at Gosh Lake

Hiking:

• Distance: 12.4 km, Elevation: 1612 m, Route: Loop

Our final trail takes us from Gosh Lake to the Goshavank Monastery, named after the 12th-century scholar and priest Mkhitar Gosh. This area, rich in cultural history, features numerous khachkars and is considered a sacred site. After visiting the monastery, we return to Yerevan.

Included Activities:

• Goshavank Monastery visit

Hiking:

• Distance: 4.2 km, Elevation: 1430 m, Route: Loop

Transfer to the airport for your departure. We hope you enjoyed your time in Armenia and look forward to welcoming you back for more adventures!

Prefer to customise this itinerary and see more of Armenia or Georgia? Get in touch!