Group Tour: Lake Sevan (Sevanavank), Dilijan (Goshavank, Haghartsin)
Description
On this 9-10-hour tour visit Lake Sevan, pearl of this mountainous country and one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in Eurasia. You will also visit Sevanavank, a monastery complex on Sevan peninsula. Currently a religious seminary functions here, which is not readily open to the public, the peninsula can be named the very point from where the whole beauty of the Lake Sevan is seen. You will then have a short stop in Dilijan town, otherwise referred to as "Armenian Switzerland" for its fantastic natural forests. The town is a part of Dilijan National Park. The next stop is Haghartsin, a 10th century monastery which has been recently renovated by donation of Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qassimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, who was impressed by the monastery when visited it. Goshavank is the final stop surrounded by green territories.
Tour Options
Itinerary
starting and ending point
The fascination and the "pearl" of mountainous Armenia is Lake Sevan, which is one of the world's greatest high altitude fresh-water lakes. It is about 1900 m above sea level. The lake is of volcanic origin and is surrounded with mountains of 3000 m and higher. The beautiful landscape and the crystal water serve nice preconditions for excellent rest.The lake is also famous for its peninsula and medieval church complex, built in 874.
A marvelous scene opens in the north-western part of Lake Sevan, where the peninsula towers over the transparent surface of the lake. Sevanavank monastery was built on the peninsula in 874 by the order of king Ashot Bagratuni's daughter – princess Mariam. The silhouette of the churches against the background of the turquoise lake and blue sky casts unexplainable impression on the visitors.
Goshavank was founded by the famous medieval scientist, fabulist Mkhitar Gosh. The complex consists of several religious and secular buildings. The unrivalled khachkar, put in front of the one-naved basilica, was created by the skillful master Poghos in 1291. Goshavank used to be one of the most famous religious and cultural centers in medieval Armenia.
Haghartsin monastery, situated in the woodlands of Tavush region, represents an indescribable example of blend of nature with architecture. It was founded in the 10-11th centuries, though new buildings were added in the 12-13th centuries. Now it consists of St. Grigor, St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), St. Stepanos churches and some other buildings.The refectory, due to its skillful architectural composition, is of great interest. Near Haghartsin there used to grow a huge oak tree, almost at the age of the monastery, completing the whole scene. Unfortunately, only a small part of the hollow has remained till the present day, however, it is still of much interest among the visitors, and preserves the tradition, according to which, when one makes a wish and at the same time manages to pass through the tree (hollow), it is expected to come true in the nearest future.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Seats will not be known in advance
- 200 steps to climb to Sevanavank, 600 meters to walk down the hill to Haghartsin
Reviews(1,256)
Our guide Gayane and the driver Spartak are the best ❤️ Everything was on time, Gayane was really nice and told us about the history of the most significant sites in this tour, we really enjoyed it!
Hayk was really nice in explaining everything, be also told about the country and songs. Spartakdrove safely and was sweet too. The bus had water, wifi and ac. Also music on our way back. Hayk played beautifull Armenian music too. Worth the money, enjoyed very much 😊
Artur Harutsunyan was the best! Very kind, and extremely helpful in seeing the most and getting the best experience. He made sure we hit every spot we wanted and has a great time. Definitely recommend him if you want a worry free day, he makes great conversation as well.
I’ve spent a wonderful time that I will never forget. I would love to come to visit Armenia again to see more wonderful places. Nature is amazing, people are so friendly. Today we spent our day with our tour guide Hayk he is welcoming, friendly and professional. Also our bus driver Spartak is super professional, bus is so clean , music is great.
Hayk was very good in keeping the group together and providing the history of each of the places we visited. Definitely recommend the tour. We covered some of the scenic spots in Armenia.
Nice way to learn about Armenia. Nice tour with great guide -Sam and driver - Devon.
Well organized tour! An erudite, pleasant, interesting Samwell and a wonderful driver Lavon who wasn't scared at all! There's a lot to compare and it's definitely a 10 out of 10 trip. All the places from the tour are in the heart of it🙏
Thank you very much to guide Samwell for his interesting tours and in-depth knowledge of history. We also express our great gratitude to driver Levan for his virtuoso and comfortable driving!
I had an amazing time! Hyur is well organized and on time. Samuel is very knowledgeable on the history of each site. He does really good with English and Russian. He makes sure everyone is included with his talks. I highly recommend this tour as it’s well worth it. Levon was a great driver on a newer bus. The bus was very clean, modern, smooth and comfortable.
The tour was amazing and intriguing! Thank you to the guide Samvel, he‘s an amazing storyteller, and to the driver Livon for professionalism :)
