Yenokavan

Yenokavan, located high in the forested mountains of the Tavush province, is a small village that has undergone a remarkable transformation. While many Armenian villages struggle with depopulation, Yenokavan has become the beating heart of adventure and ecotourism in the country, thanks to visionary projects. The landscape here is often referred to as the 'Armenian Switzerland,' characterized by dense forests, deep gorges, clear rivers, and dramatic rock formations. The main draw for tourists is the Yell Extreme Park, the first amusement park of its kind in Armenia. Adrenaline junkies will get their money's worth here: the main attraction is a massive zipline that spans across a deep, green gorge over several stations. In addition to ziplining, the park has activities such as horseback riding, off-road tours, climbing (Via Ferrata), and zorbing. For nature lovers who prefer things a bit quieter, Yenokavan is the excellent starting point for hiking. A popular trail leads to the Lastiver Caves, hidden in the forest, which served as a refuge in the Middle Ages and are known today for their waterfalls and ancient carvings. A visit to Yenokavan is handy for travelers looking to escape the heat of Yerevan and seeking active recreation. The infrastructure has greatly improved, with cozy eco-lodges and resorts offering traditional Armenian cuisine. Summer is the busiest time, but golden autumn also bathes the dense forests in a spectacular display of colors.

Nearby cities

Ijevan

Ijevan is a forested city in northeastern Armenia, famous for its carpets, wine, and scenic landscapes.

Dilijan

Often called the 'Armenian Switzerland', Dilijan is a spa town surrounded by dense forests and national parks.

Sevan

Sevan is a popular resort town on the shores of Lake Sevan, Armenia's largest body of water.

Lchashen

Lchashen is a village near Lake Sevan, widely recognized for its important Bronze Age archaeological discoveries.

Gardabani

Gardabani is an industrial city near the Azerbaijani border, operating an important thermal power plant.

Gavar

Gavar is a mountainous city located near Lake Sevan, known for its cold winters and historical monuments.

Hrazdan

Hrazdan is an important industrial center in the Kotayk Province, situated on the banks of the Hrazdan River.

Rustavi

Rustavi is a major industrial city in southeastern Georgia on the Kura River.

Marneuli

Marneuli is the administrative center of a multicultural region in Kvemo Kartli, with a predominantly Azerbaijani population.

Tovuz

Tovuz is located in northwestern Azerbaijan near Georgia and Armenia.

Charentsavan

Charentsavan was established in the mid-20th century as an industrial hub for machinery and tool manufacturing.

Martuni

Martuni is a town situated on the southern shores of Lake Sevan, known for its fishing and agriculture.

History & landmarks

Haghartsin Monastery

A 13th-century monastery complex hidden in the lush, emerald forests of Dilijan National Park.

Sevanavank

A monastic complex located on a peninsula at the northwestern shore of Lake Sevan with scenic views.

Akhtala Fortress

A 10th-century fortified monastery that played a crucial role in protecting the northwestern regions.

Nature

Lake Parz

Lake Parz is a small forest lake in Dilijan National Park, known for its crystal-clear water.

Debed River

The Debed flows through deep, forested gorges in northern Armenia towards Georgia.

Lake Akna

Lake Akna is a picturesque crater lake in the Geghama Mountains, surrounded by alpine meadows.

Lake Sevan

Lake Sevan is the largest lake in Armenia and one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the world.

More places

Goyazan Mountain

The solitary Goyazan is a striking volcanic remnant rising steeply above the surrounding plains.

Dilijan National Park

Dilijan National Park is known for its dense forests, lakes, and rich biodiversity.

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Qarayazi State Reserve

This reserve on the banks of the Kura River protects a unique floodplain landscape and endangered wildlife.

Sevan-Hrazdan Cascade

The Sevan-Hrazdan Cascade is a complex of hydroelectric power plants on the Hrazdan River, utilizing water from Lake Sevan.

Gardabani Thermal Power Plant

The combined cycle gas turbine power plant in Gardabani ensures Georgia's energy security, especially during winter.

Haghpat Monastery

A medieval Armenian monastery complex in Haghpat, built between the 10th and 13th centuries.

Gegharkunik Potato Farms

The cool climatic conditions around Lake Sevan are excellent for growing high-quality Armenian potatoes.

Hrazdan Thermal Power Plant

The Hrazdan Thermal Power Plant is one of the largest power plants in Armenia and primarily uses natural gas as fuel.