Visiting Tavush province must be on the bucket list of every traveler who arrives in Armenia. Located in the northeastern part of Armenia, Tavush captivates with its picturesque landscapes and serene charm.
Although the most popular among travelers is the jewel of this province, Dilijan, there are more places like Ijevan and Noyemberyan that also boast lush greenery and historic treasures. Once you are in the province through Dilijan National Park, where dense forests and tranquil lakes create an idyllic setting for nature enthusiasts.
Why is it an ideal destination for a weekend? Great hotels with pools, spas, and other attractions as well as a bunch of high-quality restaurants for real foodies. The region is a haven for diverse activities, from hiking the verdant trails to exploring ancient monasteries like Haghartsin or Goshavank. For adrenaline junkies, Yell Park is a playground for extreme sports, offering thrilling adventures like zip-lining and rope courses.
Let’s see how you can spend an unforgettable weekend in Tavush or “Little Armenian Switzerland” as they usually call it.
Natural Attractions
Tavush province is a place of natural wonders: mountain lakes, beautiful waterfalls, and lush forests. One of the region’s unique places is the Lastiver waterfall, a cascading masterpiece hidden within a pristine forest. The journey to Lastiver is an adventure in itself as it is deep into the forest, and you have to walk along the hiking trails leading to this enchanting spot. The waterfall’s crystalline waters descend amidst lush greenery creating a breathtaking view.
Dilijan National Park is a heaven for nature lovers. Hiking through the park reveals dense forests, meandering pathways, and the serene waters of mountain streams. Here you can see rich flora and fauna. Just imagine there are 480 mushroom species. The park also boasts over 280 species of animals. Ecotourism enthusiasts would love to visit the breeding center of the Caucasian deer.
Tavush’s mountain lakes are another captivating destination for nature lovers. Lake Parz and Lake Gosh mesmerize with their reflective surfaces, surrounded by emerald landscapes. Unlike Lake Parz which is very popular among locals and tourists, Gosh is a high-altitude lake where one can relax and be at one with nature.
Monuments to Visit in Tavush
The region is a great place to witness Armenia’s rich historical and cultural heritage. The churches and monasteries of Tavush resemble the mountainous lakes. You can drive high in the mountains through the lush forest and see the conical roof of a medieval monastery.
One of the monasteries that captivate tourists is Haghartsin, a medieval masterpiece hidden in the forest. Dating back to the 10th century, Haghartsin surprises visitors with its stone carvings, khachkars (cross-stones), and the tranquil ambiance surrounding its historic structures.
Goshavank was also constructed in the Middle Ages – in the 12th century. It was a place where Armenian writer, thinker, and priest Mkhitar Gosh founded a school. The oldest construction here is the Virgin church dating back to 1196.
Another gem is Matosavank located on a forested plateau. The medieval monastery consists of three adjacent structures, including a church and a book depository. In close proximity is Jukhtak monastery which is surrounded by a cemetery.
Another interesting historic site is the “Girl’s Fortress”. It is called Ashot Erkat Fortress or Mantashaberd, a construction built of black stone surrounded by pyramid walls.
Exploring these monuments in Tavush is like stepping into a living history book, where the stones whisper tales of medieval Armenia.
Journey for Extreme Lovers
For adrenaline seekers, Tavush transforms into a place of unforgettable experiences. Dilijan’s Rope Park offers a thrilling treetop adventure, where visitors navigate bridges and zip lines. There are different trails, including those for kids turning a visit into an exciting family hangout.
Venture further to the famous Yell Extreme Park in Yenokavan, where Tavush unfolds its daring side. Moreover, Yell Park is considered an informal extreme capital of Armenia and a favorite place of tourists.
This adventure park offers attractions for extreme sports lovers. Zip-lining over gorges, off-road tours, and Via Ferrata, a hiking trail that crosses inaccessible parts of mountain with the help of cables and metal treadmills. Here you can also enjoy horseback riding and discover the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Hiking in the Mountains
Dilijan National Park is a paradise for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. There is an extensive network of trails, winding through dense forests, alongside mountain lakes, and ascending picturesque peaks.
There are numerous trails of various difficulty levels that are also a great route for mountain biking or horseback riding. For example, you can choose the so-called Monk’s Trail that starts from Dilijan and leads to the medieval village of Gosh.
Another popular route is from Dilijan to Lake Parz which offers beautiful panoramic views. Here you can take a zipline above the lake or ride a boat. If you prefer tranquility, bring a tent to set up a camp in a flat area in the forest. If you want to be alone with nature, stop at a place far from the lake as this place attracts many tourists, especially during the summer months.
Tavush cuisine: farm-to-table
Dilijan is home to a number of popular restaurants and cafes. Here you can even find a brewery or a wine bar.
The local residents gather ingredients in the local dishes, like nuts, mushrooms, and herbs, in the forests. Embracing the farm-to-table concept, Tavush showcases a vibrant array of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Fresh dairy products, great cheese, organic fruits, and jams – you can find this when having breakfast in one of the local hotels. As for sweets, there is always freshly baked gata with different fillings.
Overall, the local cuisine is a delightful exploration of flavors, so do not miss a chance to visit the region to enjoy the taste of homemade food.