Lake Sevan, Dilijan & Monasteries: Private Day Trip Pickup

Summary

Lake Sevan day trip with monastery walks and forest air

You’ll breathe crisp mountain air at Lake Sevan, climb ancient monastery steps in Dilijan’s green forests, and hear stories from your local guide along winding roads. Expect small surprises — wildflowers left in stone windows or fresh bread sold on monastery paths — plus pickup in Yerevan and flexible stops if you ask.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think Lake Sevan would feel so… open. The sky was huge, almost too blue, and the lake just sat there quietly under it — cold wind off the water, a smell like wet stone. We’d barely gotten out of Yerevan when our driver (Arman) grinned and handed us bottled water, saying “You’ll need this.” He was right — the sun’s strong up here. At Sevanavank, we climbed stone steps past wildflowers while a local woman sold sweet bread from a basket. I tried to say thank you in Armenian; she smiled but I probably messed it up.

The road to Dilijan twisted through pine forests that looked almost Alpine — people call it the “Armenian Switzerland,” and I kind of get why now. Our guide told us stories about Soviet-era artists who used to come here for inspiration (I could see why they’d want quiet). Haghartsin Monastery felt tucked away on purpose, like it was hiding from time. Inside, the air was cool and smelled faintly of candle wax. Someone had left a bunch of wildflowers by an old stone window — I remember touching the wall, damp and rough.

Goshavank was our last stop; honestly by then my legs were tired but I didn’t mind. The khachkars outside are so detailed you could stare at them forever. Arman pointed out carvings he said were from 1291 — which is wild to think about. We sat on a bench for a minute just listening to birds (and some distant hammering from renovations), not really talking much. On the drive back to Yerevan, I kept thinking about that view over Lake Sevan — still can’t quite describe it right.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lake Sevan and Monasteries Tour

• Rest on Lake Sevan shore
• Visit Sevanavank monastery
• Explore Haghartsin monastery
• See Goshavank monastery

Top questions

How long is the drive from Yerevan to Lake Sevan?

It takes about an hour by car from Yerevan to Lake Sevan.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, free pickup and drop-off within Yerevan are included.

Are guides available in English?

Yes, you can choose a professional English or Russian-speaking guide.

Can infants join the tour?

Infants are welcome; specialized infant seats are available if needed.

What’s special about Dilijan?

Dilijan is famous for its lush forests and is sometimes called “Armenian Switzerland.”

Are extra stops possible during the trip?

Yes, extra stops on the route can be arranged upon request.

What is Goshavank known for?

Goshavank was founded by Mkhitar Gosh and has unique khachkars carved in 1291.

Is lunch included in this private day trip?

No lunch is included but there are places to buy food along the way.

What’s included

Your day includes free pickup and drop-off anywhere in Yerevan, comfortable air-conditioned transport with insurance for all passengers, bottled water along the way, and a professional English or Russian-speaking guide if you choose that option. Extra stops can be added if you ask your driver during the journey.