Tatev Monastery. COURTESY
Rich in breathtaking natural, historical, and cultural landscapes, Armenia offers countless fascinating attractions to the curious and adventurous traveler. With many mountains, rivers, and lush forests to enjoy along with remote regions, forts, and monasteries to discover, the country will never cease to impress. We explore the ten most beautiful landscapes in Armenia that are must-visits.
Tatev Monastery
Located on an 850-meter-high (2,790 ft.) cliff above springs and incredible nature, the 9th-century monastery of Tatev is a must-visit not only for its religious and historical importance but also for its breathtaking natural landscapes all around. To reach it, travelers can hop on board the cableway between Halidzor and the monastery and enjoy the stunning views from above. In medieval Armenia, this was the location of the country’s most important scholastic and spiritual center. Today, this old and famous complex is certainly one of Armenia’s most impressive sites of interest.
Sevan Lake
Stunning Lake Sevan is one of Armenia’s natural gems and is the nearest ocean equivalent for this land-locked country. Located 1,905 meters (6,250 ft.) above sea level, this incredible freshwater lake is one of the world’s largest high-altitude lakes and the perfect place to take a dip on hot summer days. There is also Sevanavank, a stunning ancient monastery made out of crude black stones that travelers can visit. The church is a perfect viewpoint, too. While at the lake, make sure to try the local grilled trout.
Khor Virap
Located on a small hill in the Ararat Valley, Khor Virap is where Grigor Luisavorich, or Saint Gregory the Illuminator, was imprisoned for a period of 13 years until he cured King Trdat III, who was suffering from an illness. The king’s recovery made him convert to Christianity, and Armenia became the first country in the world to adopt the Christian religion in 301. Today, travelers can explore the underground chamber where the Saint was held, and the beautiful Khor Virap monastery itself. The setting is one of the most impressive, as it is the closest point to the stunning Mount Ararat.
Mount Aragats
Aragats is a mesmerizing mountainous area rich in diverse natural landscapes and culture. Visit the beautiful ancient fortress and monastery on the way up to the peak surrounded by alpine meadows and fragrant flowers. In the summer, you will also come across the Yazidi who live in tents and raise sheep on its slopes, making dairy products that they then sell in the valley. However, located 3,190 meters (10,433 ft.) above sea level on the slopes of Mount Aragats is the fascinating landscape of Lake Kar. Even on hot sunny days, visitors can play in the snow.
Debed Canyon
Rich in history and culture, Debed Canyon is one of the most attractive sites in Armenia. Lacking tourist facilities, visitors usually stay in Vanadzor and take day trips to the stunning canyon. On the way, you can choose to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sanahin and Haghpat monasteries, together with countless little villages along the Debed River. The area is home to a number of fascinating khachkars – impressive cross stones that are the perfect reflection of medieval Christian Armenian traditional art.
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