EXPERIENCE ARMENIA THROUGH THE SEASONS

Whether soaking up the fiery autumn colours or heading out on wildflower hikes in spring, every season in Armenia offers a different perspective…

2024-04-01 -

Nestled in the Caucasus region between Europe and Asia, Armenia offers a tapestry of landscapes and experiences that transform with each passing season. From the blooming valleys in spring to the snow-capped mountains of winter, Armenia’s natural beauty is ever-changing, inviting visitors on a captivating journey throughout the year. See for yourself...

SPRING: AWAKENING OF NATURE

Armenia awakens to the gentle embrace of spring, as the landscapes burst into life. The air is filled with the sweet fragrance of apricot orchards in bloom, a symbol of Armenia’s heritage. The country’s verdant mountainsides are dotted violet and alabaster, crimson and gold, and one of the best ways to explore them is on foot. The Transcaucasian Trail (TCT), a thru-hike that links the nations of the South Caucasus and spans 800km of Armenian territory, is often at the top of hikers’ wishlists with its undulating paths weaving through dramatic valleys and canyons, forest-laden hills and ancient sites of cultural heritage hidden amid the peaks. Pick a section that showcases the elaborate interiors of Armenia’s ancient churches, the majestic Tatev Monastery, or venture off the route to visit other places such as Unesco-listed Haghpat Monastery Complex. It’s not the only memorable spring walk Armenia has, with wildflowers also blanketing the fringes of the lush Debed Canyon, where you can follow its namesake river’s path. Armenian hospitality is often on full display along its walking trails, with rural hosts dishing up feasts with ingredients foraged locally.

If you’re looking for a unique gastro experience, embark on a wild food adventure and dine in a variety of outdoor settings, from a pristine woodland to a craggy cliffside or a table set in between vineyards.

SUMMER: A TAPESTRY OF COLOURS

Long days settle into periwinkle sunsets during the Armenian summer, as the heat fades over café-hoppers sipping wine al fresco on Saryan Street in the country’s capital, Yerevan. During the day, take shade in its museums and galleries, like the Matenadaran with its ancient manuscripts or the Sergey Parajanov Museum, dedicated to the namesake filmmaker.

Outside of the city, sunseekers flock to the lakes and rivers that snake through the Armenian countryside to cool off. Relax on the banks of Lake Sevan, where watersports like kayaking, paddleboarding and even high-altitude diving are popular.

Alternatively, venture into the mountains on a jeep tour from Yerevan, or soar high above Armenia’s sweeping countryside on a hot air balloon ride. North of Sevan, the Tavush region is grooved by the Ijevan Mountains. Here, the Shaghot waterfall and panoramic peak-top views offer an ideal, reinvigorating destination.

Another refreshing alternative is Vardavar festival in July. Once of Pagan origin, this festival sees merrymakers across Armenia take to the streets with buckets of water, turning it into a country-wide water fight.

AUTUMN: A PALETTE OF GOLD

As gold and ochre seep across Armenia and temperatures fall, harvest season hits its peak. Taste pomegranates bursting with sweet juice, or walnuts, honey, dried fruit and rice heaped into the centre of a pumpkin (a seasonal dish known as ghapama). For a hands-on foray into Armenian culinary culture, visit a gastro yard. There, experts introduce guests to autumnal dishes via masterclasses and skilfully crafted plates paired with Armenian wines.

Viticulture is intrinsically tied to the country’s harvesting heritage, and travellers can sample its signature blends on the designated wine route of Vayots Dzor. The world’s first known winery was discovered in this region, occluded within a complex cave system dating back over 6,100 years.

Travel in October to catch the Areni Wine Festival, held in the Areni village.

Round out your autumnal adventure by renting a bike and heading into Dilijan National Park for the best views of the wildly shifting seasonal colours.

WINTER: WHERE ADVENTURE MEETS SERENITY

Through snow-laden pines you can spy the mirror-like waters of Lake Sevan, backed by distant peaks. But natural beauty is not the only thing swept in by Armenia’s winter winds. There’s adventure to be found, too, from skiing and snowboarding on the slopes of Tsaghkadzor and Yeghipatrush, to snowshoeing in the Lori region or cross-country skiing in Ashotsk.

Recover some of that exerted energy by indulging in the classic winter dish of khash. Preparing this rich broth – served with Unescolisted lavash bread, tangy pickles and fragrant herbs – is a ritual, as cooks gather late to brew it through the night.

Winter brings chances to experience nature differently. To warm up, bathe in the steaming springs of Jermuk, a spa town whose nourishing waters are said to have healing properties. As the seasons unfold in Armenia, each one offers its own unique, captivating beauty throughout the year.