Weekend at the foot of Aragats

After departing from Yerevan, approximately 40 minutes later we will arrive in Ashtarak, one of the most picturesque historic towns near the capital. The town is located on both sides of the Kasagh River Gorge and has preserved the atmosphere of old Armenia, with stone houses, narrow streets, historic churches, and charming courtyards.

A walk through Ashtarak will allow you to explore the historic center of the town and enjoy beautiful views of the gorge.

Yerevan → Ashtarak — approximately 25 km

• Ashtarak — a walking tour through the old town and along the Kasagh Gorge.

• Karmravor Church — a small 7th-century medieval church and one of Ashtarak’s most recognizable landmarks.

• We then continue towards Hovhannavank, where lunch will be served at Mika Tun Restaurant. One of the restaurant’s distinctive features is its glass elevator, which provides access down towards the monastery and the gorge.

• Hovhannavank — a medieval monastery complex situated on the edge of the scenic Kasagh Gorge.

• Saghmosavank — one of the region’s most famous monasteries, dramatically perched above the gorge.

🍷 Evening

Dinner in Ashtarak followed by a relaxing walk through the historic center. The evening can be spent in the cozy atmosphere of the guesthouse, enjoying local cuisine and Armenian wines.

Overnight: Yeganyans Guest House and Wine Yard

The second day is dedicated to Mount Aragats, the highest mountain in Armenia. After breakfast, we head towards Byurakan, gradually ascending from the green slopes of Aragatsotn into the highlands, with increasingly dramatic mountain landscapes along the way.

• Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory — if available, a visit to the observatory grounds or an internal guided tour can be arranged.

• Lunch at Byurakan Pandok Restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional Armenian cuisine.

• We then continue to Amberd Fortress, located at an altitude of approximately 2,300 meters above sea level. Surrounded by mountains and deep gorges, this medieval fortress is one of the most impressive historical landmarks of Aragatsotn.

• Vahramashen Church, located near the fortress.

• A walk around the Amberd complex and an introduction to the history of the fortress.

We then continue higher into the mountains towards Lake Kari, situated at an altitude of approximately 3,200 meters above sea level.

The lake offers spectacular panoramic views of the slopes of Mount Aragats. Weather permitting, you can take a short walk around the lake and enjoy several photo stops.

Dinner at the hotel.

Overnight: Chateau Byurakan Hotel or Amberd Hotel

The third day is dedicated to the history and architectural heritage of Aragatsotn. The route takes you through historic settlements and sites connected with the region’s cultural and military history.

After breakfast, we depart for Oshakan.

• Saint Mesrop Mashtots Church — an important site of Armenian culture associated with Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian alphabet.

• Discover the history of Mesrop Mashtots and the significance of Oshakan for Armenian written culture.

• Lunch at Sisaks Restaurant.

We continue to Aruch, a small historic settlement with a remarkable architectural heritage.

• Aruchavank — one of Armenia’s important Early Medieval churches, built in the 7th century.

• Explore the ruins of the palace and other historic structures preserved near the church.

We then continue to Talin, home to several important monuments of medieval Armenia:

• Talin Cathedral — a monumental 7th-century church, impressive for its scale and architecture.

• Saint Katoghike Church.

• Talin Caravanserai — a historic site reflecting the importance of the trade routes that once passed through the region.

The final stop of the day is Dashtadem Fortress, a major historical complex featuring several layers of defensive architecture. Located amid the open landscapes of Aragatsotn, the fortress is particularly interesting for the structures from different historical periods preserved within its grounds.

On the way back to Yerevan, we can make a stop in Ashtarak for dinner at Old House Restaurant.

After dinner, return to Yerevan.