Day trip to: Lake Sevan-Dilijian (Old Dilijan, Haghartsin Monastery)

Exploring Armenia’s natural beauty and historic sites in a single day is a tempting proposition, and this private tour to Lake Sevan, Dilijan, and Haghartsin Monastery offers a well-rounded taste of the country’s scenic and cultural treasures. The experience includes a visit to Armenia’s largest freshwater lake, ancient monasteries dating back over a millennium, and a scenic drive through the lush, mountainous highlands. It’s a flexible, private arrangement, which means you get the chance to enjoy these highlights with personalized attention, and the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.

What I love most about this trip is the access to Sevanavank Monastery, with its commanding views over Lake Sevan — a site that’s been a spiritual hub since 874 AD. The other standout is Haghartsin Monastery, where the ruins are surrounded by nature, giving you a quiet, contemplative atmosphere. Plus, the guide (Egor, according to reviews) seems well-versed in Armenia’s history, making the visits more engaging. On the downside, you’ll need to budget for lunch separately, and some travelers have found certain stops, like Parz Lij, a bit rushed. Still, for a day’s worth of diverse experiences, this offers good value, especially if you’re keen on history, scenery, and authentic cultural insights.

Key points / Takeaways

• Private, customizable experience means you’ll enjoy a more relaxed pace.
• Expert multilingual guides enrich your understanding of Armenia’s landmarks.
• Stunning views at Lake Sevan are a highlight, especially from Sevanavank.
• Historic monasteries like Haghartsin showcase medieval Armenian architecture and spirituality.
• Transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with door-to-door pickup and drop-off.
• Cost is reasonable at $150 per group, considering the personalized service and transportation included.

Entering the Scenic World of Lake Sevan

Your day begins with a pickup from your Yerevan accommodation, setting the tone for a day spent exploring Armenia’s extraordinary outdoors. The drive to Lake Sevan takes roughly an hour, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic High Highland views along the way. As the largest body of water in Armenia and the Caucasus, Lake Sevan is a kind of national treasure — a vast, high-altitude freshwater lake at 1,900 meters above sea level.

What makes Lake Sevan so special — and why it’s worth the time — is how its size and clarity captivate visitors. One traveler noted, “Lake Sevan is not only the lifeline of the Armenians, but it’s also the most beautiful place I’ve seen.” The lake’s expansive surface is framed by rugged mountains and dotted with small fishing villages, making for a lovely photo backdrop. Expect to spend about an hour here, soaking in the views or strolling along the shore, with free admission.

The Majesty of Sevanavank Monastery

Next, the tour heads to Sevanavank Monastery, founded in 874 AD by Princess Mariam, the daughter of King Ashot I. The two main churches, Surp Arakelots and Surp Astvatsatsin, are built in a cruciform style with octagonal tambours, reflecting typical Armenian medieval architecture. As you climb the approximately 200 stairs to the monastery’s vantage point, you’ll understand why this site has been a spiritual hub for centuries.

According to one reviewer, “Once you reach the top, the view is mesmerizing,” and I can confirm this is true. The panoramic vista of Lake Sevan stretching out below is breathtaking, especially on a clear day. The adjacent ruins of the gavit (a kind of narthex or prayer hall) add a sense of history and quiet reverence to the scene. While the entrance fee is not included, the chance to wander this ancient complex and experience its peaceful aura makes it worthwhile.

Taking in Armenia’s Medieval Spirit at Haghartsin Monastery

After a scenic drive through the Tavush Province, you’ll visit Haghartsin Monastery, established between the 10th and 13th centuries. Built under the Bagratuni Dynasty, the monastery complex features a series of churches, chapels, and a masterful stone courtyard, all set against the backdrop of lush forests.

This site is a favorite among visitors, offering both a glimpse into Armenia’s spiritual past and a peaceful spot for reflection. One reviewer called it “the lifeline of Armenia,” emphasizing how locals view Lake Sevan, but the monastery itself captures a sense of tranquility and history that’s equally compelling. The ruins of Haghartsin are often described as atmospheric, with overgrown stonework and arches that whisper stories of centuries past. Entrance fees aren’t included, but the experience is enhanced by the natural beauty surrounding the monastery.

Transportation and Comfort

One of the advantages here is the private, air-conditioned vehicle that transports you comfortably between sites. This is especially appreciated considering Armenia’s sometimes bumpy roads and variable weather. The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, removing the hassle of arranging your own transport. Fuel, parking fees, and bottled water are all covered, making the price of $150 per group quite reasonable when you consider how personalized and flexible the service is.

The tour guides, offered in multiple languages including English, Russian, and Armenian, are a significant plus. A previous guest praised Egor for his knowledge and helpfulness, which suggests you’re in capable hands. Just keep in mind that lunch is not included, so plan to bring some snacks or plan to eat in a local restaurant after the tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a balanced mix of nature, history, and culture without the rush of a large group. It suits those who enjoy scenic drives, ancient architecture, and meaningful commentary from guides. It’s a good fit for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and prefer a more intimate exploration.

While the itinerary covers some of Armenia’s top highlights, reviews indicate that the stops like Parz Lij may feel too brief, so managing expectations about time is wise. Also, the price is quite competitive considering the private format, especially for groups of up to three people.

Final Thoughts

This trip to Lake Sevan, Dilijan, and Haghartsin Monastery offers a thoughtful, well-rounded day that balances stunning landscapes with cultural richness. You’ll appreciate the comfort of private transportation, the insights of knowledgeable guides, and the chance to experience Armenia’s historical sites in a relaxed setting.

For those interested in Armenia’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage, this tour provides a good introduction that doesn’t compromise on quality or authenticity. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to see the country’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If you’re okay with paying separately for lunch and don’t mind a few brief stops, this trip delivers good value and memorable sights. Whether it’s your first visit to Armenia or a repeat trip, the mix of panoramic views and historic monasteries will leave a lasting impression.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the private nature and moderate walking involved make it suitable for most ages, but expect to climb some stairs at Sevanavank and Haghartsin.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak Armenian?
Absolutely. The guides are multilingual, offering services in English, Russian, and Armenian, ensuring you’ll understand all the sites’ stories.

What’s the main highlight of the trip?
Most travelers rave about the panoramic views from Sevanavank and the peaceful ruins of Haghartsin, offering both scenic beauty and historical depth.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not part of the package, so you should plan to eat afterward or bring snacks.

How flexible is the schedule?
As a private tour, Egor and the driver can adjust timing within reason, but the overall itinerary is set to include the main sites.

What’s the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $150 per group, which covers private transportation, guide services, fuel, parking, and bottled water — a reasonable rate for this personalized experience.