Activities

Adventure

Skiing and Snowboarding in Tsaghkadzor

Kotayk

Tsaghkadzor Ski Resort on Mount Teghenis opened in 1986 next to the Tsaghkadzor Olympic Sports Complex, which was originally created to prepare athletes for the 1988 Winter Olympic Games. A fourth lift line was added in 2006. The resort's base sits at about 1,966 metres, and its upper section reaches 2,820 metres. There are 16 trails of varying difficulty, the longest of which is 5.8 km. Here you can ski or snowboard down trails designed for beginners, intermediate and advanced skiers. Skis, snowboards, goggles and helmets can be rented on site, and private or group lessons are available.

Cultural

Noratus Khachkars

Gegharkunik

Covering about seven hectares, Noratus is the largest surviving open-air khachkar cemetery in Armenia. According to various sources, between about 900 and 2,500 khachkars have survived here, dating from the 9th–10th centuries to the 17th–18th centuries. Noratus is considered one of the largest surviving khachkar complexes in the world. Here you can wander freely among centuries-old khachkars depicting saints, weddings, horsemen and scenes of everyday life. You can visit the two chapels on the site — one from the 13th century and the other from 1714 — as well as the nearby 9th-century Surb Astvatsatsin Church. Near the entrance you can buy stone carvings made in the style of khachkars, or explore the site with the help of a local guide.

Adventure

Boat Ride on Lake Sevan

Gegharkunik

Lake Sevan is the largest lake in Armenia and one of the country's main destinations for water recreation. Tourist boats and small vessels operate in different parts of the lake, offering short trips on the water. During the ride you can enjoy views of the lake's shoreline, the peninsula and the surrounding mountains. A boat ride can be combined with a visit to the Sevan Peninsula.

Nature

Swimming in Lake Sevan

Gegharkunik

Lying almost 1,900 metres above sea level, Lake Sevan is Armenia's main destination for a beach holiday. Public beaches are free to use and are equipped with changing rooms, showers and lifeguard stations. Private beach areas around the lake also offer sunbathing spots, umbrellas and food services.