If you want to find yourself surrounded by tranquility and beautiful nature, travel to Dilijan for a weekend to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of “Armenian Switzerland”. After crowded Yerevan with heavy traffic and many people strolling around, a trip to Dilijan is like a breath of fresh air.
Thanks to its mountain air, dense forests, picturesque lakes, and old monasteries, Dilijan is a haven of tranquility and natural splendor. This is the reason the resort town has always attracted musicians, composers, and artists who preferred it to bustling cities.
Today Dilijan is a resort town with many hotels, restaurants, and cafes. It is home to UWC Dilijan College, an international college and the first boarding school in Armenia, as well as the Central Bank of Armenia’s Training and Research Center. Before discovering what to do in Dilijan, let’s focus on its history and origin.
History
The legend says the name of Dilijan originated from the name of a shepherd called Dili. He wanted to marry his master’s daughter, but the father was against their marriage and ordered to kill him. After the shepherd’s death, his mother was looking for him everywhere and was heard calling “Dili jan, Dili jan”.
The history of Dilijan is as old as the history of Armenia. The excavations revealed many items dating back to the late Bronze and early Iron ages. Meanwhile, in the Middle Ages, this area was home to monasteries that served as cultural and educational centers.
Monasteries
The medieval monasteries hidden in lush forests are a true gem of Dilijan. The most famous of them are Haghartsin and Goashavank which used to be not only spiritual centers but educational hubs during the Middle Ages.
Haghartsin is located at the peak of a high mountain a half-hour drive from the town. The monasterial complex consists of four churches, a refectory, and two narthexes. It’s a popular tourist destination because of its architecture and breathtaking views.
Goshavank dating back to the 12–13th century is named after Mkhiytar Gosh, an Armenian writer, thinker, and scholar who founded a school here. The complex includes churches, a chapel, a bell tower, and a book depository.
There are two monasteries that are less popular. Jukhtak Van dates back to the 12th century and consists of two separate churches St. Astvatsatsin and St. Grigor. Another one is Matosavank, a small monastery currently in ruins located deep in the forest.
Lake Parz
Imagine you are driving along a road in the thick forest. Suddenly it takes a turn right and you see a picturesque lake in a valley of dense mountain forests. It is not a dream but Lake Parz which is translated as “Clear Lake”. It’s a great place for a photo shoot, especially in fall when there are fewer tourists and the trees are covered with yellow and red leaves. Encircled by hiking trails, Lake Parz offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts. Here you can take a boat or ride a zipline to enjoy the views.
Rope Park
Dilijan’s Verev Rope Park is a real adventure and a great place to hang out with friends and family. The park offers rope routes, swinging bridges, and climbing walls for different ages. There are even courses for children aged 3 and above, so if you are traveling with kids, they would love this attraction. As you navigate the treetop trails, an adrenaline rush accompanies the stunning views of local nature. The park was founded in 2020 and has become a popular tourist attraction so far.
Dining
Trendy cafes serving European-style breakfasts and traditional restaurants with barbecue and tolma. Dilijan offers a variety of flavors and aromas for every budget. It is not a coincidence that Dilijan is hosting Gastrofest, a major culinary festival that brought together representatives of 25 restaurants in 2023. The town is an ideal destination for foodies willing to explore the taste of Armenian cuisine. For example, you can taste local gata which is made with sweet fruit filling.
Hiking in Dilijan National Park
Ecotourism enthusiasts would love Dilijan for its numerous hiking trails and opportunities for horse riding, and mountain biking. Another attraction for eco-tourists is the breeding center of the red Caucasian deer in the Dilijan National Park.
There are trails of various difficulty levels and some are a part of the so-called Transcaucasian Trail, a long-distance trail in the Caucasus passing through Georgia and Armenia. The beginners can start from a “Drunken Forest”, a route from the town to Lake Parz. It is called Drunken because of the twisted and asymmetrical trees.
If you prefer hiking on your own, visit the Dilijan Information Center for comprehensive information about hiking opportunities. Here you can also grab a bike to explore the city and the nearby villages.
To Sum Up
Dilijan combines history, natural wonders, and modern hotels and restaurants. Whether you are interested in the history of medieval architecture, eco-tourism, or traditional cuisine, Dilijan has it all. It is included in almost all tours organized by Levon Travel. However, if you need an unforgettable journey based on your own itinerary, our experts will help you craft a tour that will meet all expectations.