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(1,266)
This is my second tour with Hyur Service - a proffesional agency. Mariam the guide is one of the best. The driver: amazing. I sincerely enjoyed this trip, the manner in which it was organized and held. I genuinely recommend it! Thank you! See you next time!
Sam was a great guide accompanied by an equally great driver, Levon. I felt safe throughout the ride. The group size was a bit large, though. The major con was waiting for several minutes for those who still weren’t at the rendezvous at the designated time.
A beautiful immersive experience in the culture, history, and nature of northeastern Armenia. Our guide Sam Samvel and our driver Spartaco were impeccable and very kind. They showed great attention to everyone's needs.
Our guide Samwell is just a find. To feel that a person truly loves his homeland, knows it and can share it with others. Separate respect for driver Spartacus. Mountain serpentine, narrow streets, steep turns - and he's driving like he's on a walk in a park. Anyway, tired and satisfied came back. Definitely recommended! Samwel and Spartacus are greatly greeted and thanked!
This excursion was amazing and interesting. Samvel,our guide our very professional and kind. Spartacus,the driver drove very safe and he was kind.
Our trip was really good and interesting, Special thanks to our tour guide Uncle Sam (Samuel) for really informative and friendly tour as well as, to the driver Spartacus who drove the bus perfectly on thin roads
Exceptional. We went in two of family, and it’s also a good group for solo and friend, any travelers. Perfect route designed. Really like the way the atmosphere that the guide Sam and driver Spartak created. Especially Sam has been very patiently explain the backgrounds and history of the monastery and the lake. Everyone is well taken care of. Amazing trip.
We had a great day with Araqel who showed us the best places to visit with a nice drive. Good local knowledge with decent English speaking and understanding.
It was ana amazing full of suspense and magical scenary
We are very grateful for the nice review! You are always welcome to Armenia!
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!
Thank you for choosing us! We hope to welcome you back for another memorable trip!
