Dilijan & Northern Armenia

With a rich historical and cultural heritage, Northern Armenia’s dramatic scenery includes river canyons, rocky outcrops and one of the best-known parks in the Caucasus. One of Armenia’s four national parks, Dilijan National Park, covers an area of approximately 240 sq. km, and its rich biodiversity is home to a staggering array of flora and fauna. Dubbed the ‘Switzerland of Armenia’, visitors are attracted by the region’s lush forests, fertile meadows and gushing rivers. The park offers opportunities for walking and hiking for all levels of ability, from a genteel woodland stroll to a multi-day trek. Historically a spa town due to its curative mineral-rich waters, the Old Dilijan Complex has been restored to its former 19th-century glory with many stone-built structures adorned with intricately carved wooden balconies. A wander through the old quarter will reveal several artisan workshops, including carpet-making, pottery and woodwork. 

Several of Armenia’s significant monasteries are in the region, including, Goshavank, located on the banks of the Getik River and founded in 1188 by the famous Armenian scholar, M. Gosh. The monastery complex includes the churches of St. Grigor and St. Astvatsatsin. It contains some remarkably well-preserved khachkars (traditional Armenian carved cross-stones). In Armenia’s far northerly reaches, the Debed Canyon is an area of outstanding natural beauty, where lush green plateaus and steep valleys give way to rushing rivers. Here you will find one of Armenia’s three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the twin-listed monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin. Their roles as important centres of learning, combined with notable architectural features, helped secure a UNESCO listing for these two Byzantine monasteries. 

Close to the border with Georgia, the fortress-monastery of Akhtala is perched magnificently on the edge of the Debed River gorge, a historical reminder that this region of Armenia was the independent kingdom of Lori in the 10th and 11th centuries. Bucolic Northern Armenia is the ideal part of the Caucasus to travel off the beaten track and experience the country’s relaxed pace of life.