Lake Sevan is probably one of the most featured things in this country's bucket list. At 480 square miles in size, it is the largest body of water not only in
Armenia but also in the entire Caucasus Region (it covers 5% of the country!!). It's also located
6,234 feet above sea level, making it one of the largest high-altitude
freshwater lakes in Eurasia. It’s located only 60 km east of the
capital city, Yerevan, so, it's perfect for a day trip or a camp trip.
This part of the world (including this lake) is full of history. You can find there a 9th - 12th century Hayravank Monastery. Due to its remote location, the monastery is also a good place to go
star gazing without having light pollution blinding you from the
flickering light of stars that travels millions of kilometers for you to
see!!
You can also visit the oldest and largest Kgachkar cemetery in the world: this dates back
to the late 10th century. It's located in Noratus, a small village
south east of Sevan. The cemetery spreads over a seven hectare field
holding almost a thousand khachkars all of which have its own unique
ornamentation. Nearby you can go to the beach, hike and see the beautiful fauna and flora, and just enjoy nature. In the summer you can swimm in the lake and do sports there too :) In winter I think you can ski nearby!
How to visit:
If you go by your own, you have a minivan several times a day from Yerevan. I would really suggest to camp here for your perfect adventure, forget that good 5 star hotels that are not worthy :)
You can also take a tour, just check this out:
Happy journeys in Armenia!
