Group tour: Dilijan (short stop), Lake Parz (Crystal), Ijevan (Makaravank Monastery), Ijevan wine-brandy factory

Dilijan, Lake Parz (Crystal), Lunch stop, Ijevan (Makaravank Monastery), Ijevan wine-brandy factory

1. Dilijan

20-30 min
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Dilijan is a corner of Armenia where nature and silence weave a harmony that captivates every traveler. Nestled among emerald forests and gentle hills, the town stretches along the scenic valley of the Aghstev River, where the air carries the scent of pine and the freshness of mountain streams. The national park's unique pearls are two beautiful sights hidden in the forests: Lakes Parz and Gosh, the shrubs and trees around which have witnessed numerous folk tales in the form of wild animals.

Its old streets and wooden balconies echo the traditions of local craftsmen, while the unhurried rhythm of life feels like a gentle step back in time. For centuries, Dilijan has been known as a healing retreat, where the mild climate and crystal‑clear air serve as nature's own remedy.

The region also holds spiritual treasures: the medieval monasteries of Haghartsin and Goshavank, where stone arches have heard the whisper of prayers for hundreds of years. Modest vestries, ancient khachkars and fragments of age‑old structures turn a simple walk into a journey through the centuries.

In summer, Dilijan is wrapped in lush greenery and birdsong; in autumn, it transforms into a vivid palette of gold and crimson. It calls to those who seek not noisy entertainment, but tranquility, beauty and the quiet inspiration that only living nature and the breath of history can offer.

2. Lake Parz

30-40 min
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Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz Lake Parz
Lake Parz, located at an altitude of 1334 meters above sea level in the picturesque Dilijan National Park, is one of the most enchanting corners of the Tavush region. Formed as a result of natural climatic processes, today it captivates with its harmony with the surrounding nature. The calm surface of the water mirrors the dense forests and drifting clouds, creating an atmosphere of peace and serenity.

The lake has long been a popular destination both for travelers and locals who come here for fresh air and the beauty of the landscapes. A boat ride on the crystal waters of Parz turns into a small adventure, offering a new perspective on the scenery. Trails around the lake invite visitors to enjoy the rare diversity of plants and the song of forest birds.

In spring and summer it is especially picturesque, with forests filled with the fragrance of flowers, while autumn covers the slopes in golden and crimson tones. In winter Parz takes on a special charm as the water freezes and the forests fall silent under snow. It is the perfect place for quiet family recreation, a romantic walk, or meditation in the embrace of nature. Lake Parz remains a symbol of Dilijan's beauty, offering every visitor a sense of inner harmony.

Lunch stop

50-60 min
Lunch stop
Optional lunch in the local traditional restaurant on own expense. One may choose between 3 different options:
Option 1 (vegeterian) – 3900 AMD per person
Option 2 – 4500 AMD per person
Option 3 – 4900 AMD per person

3. Makaravank Monastery

40-50 min
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In the emerald mountains of Tavush, hidden among forests and cliffs, lies Makaravank – a monastic complex that shines as one of the jewels of medieval Armenia. Its origins go back to the 12th-13th centuries, when master builders succeeded in blending architectural grandeur with the harmony of the surrounding landscape. The complex consists of three churches, living quarters and service buildings, each still impressive for its scale and careful design.

What captivates visitors most are the stone reliefs and intricate ornaments: walls are adorned with interlacing plant motifs, images of animals and fantastic creatures, all carved with remarkable artistry. These decorations tell silent stories, giving the monastery both beauty and symbolic meaning. Makaravank astonishes not only with the skill of its craftsmen but also with a rare sense of wholeness – every building feels like part of a single artistic creation.

In the sunlight, the reddish-pink tuff stone glows with warm shades, highlighting the richness of its forms. Walking through the complex today, one can almost hear the whispers of centuries, when this place was a spiritual and cultural hub where masters created and prayers filled the air. Makaravank remains a sanctuary where history and nature merge in harmony, offering visitors a profound sense of peace and inspiration.

4. Ijevan wine-brandy factory

50-60 min
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Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory Ijevan wine-brandy factory
The Ijevan Wine and Brandy Factory, founded in 1951, has become a true guardian of Armenia's winemaking and brandy traditions. In this green and fertile land of Tavush, nature itself seems to have infused power and fragrance into every grape cluster, every berry, every fruit. Here are born drinks that carry you into a world of legend: noble brandies with a deep, warm flavor, refined wines filled with the energy of the sun and fruit-and-berry elixirs woven from the very soul of orchards and forests.

A tasting-tour within the factory walls becomes a small ritual – a meeting with tradition that still lives on today. Three wines, four wines and a brandy, or the crown jewel of the collection – a twenty-year-old brandy – each option reveals new facets of Armenian craftsmanship. From the very first sip you feel the centuries-old culture, where every drop tells the story of the land, the grapes and the people who devoted their lives to this art.

The Ijevan Factory is not just a place but a living legend of Tavush, where taste and memory unite in a glass, turning it into a symbol of hospitality and inspiration.

The following packages are available for visitors:

  • Option 1 – 3 types of wine at 8.10 USD p/p;
  • Option 2 – 4 types of wine and 1 type of brandy at 9.45 USD p/p;
  • Option 3 – 3 types of wine and a 20-year-old brandy at 13.50 USD p/p.

👉 The reservations should be made in advance.

Inclusions

  • Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively

  • Air-conditioned vehicles

  • Bottled water & pastries

  • Admission tickets

  • Wi-Fi in the vehicles

  • Vehicle & passengers insurance

  • Wine tasting

Exclusions

  • Lunch cost (10.53 USD13.23 USD)

  • Hotel drop-off (final stop: our office)

Frequently Asked Questions

Booking conditions

Cancellation & modification

Meet our Guides

Samvel Mkrtumyan

Samvel Mkrtumyan

RU HY EN

Hi, I'm Samvel. With degrees in international relations and history, and years of connecting people from all walks of life, I've turned my passion for stories into guiding. I love revealing Armenia's hidden gems, sharing its quirky legends, and showcasing its breathtaking sights. It's fun, pal. Let's enjoy it together!

Nina Manukyan

Nina Manukyan

RU HY EN

Hello! My name is Nina, I am a guide at "Hyur Service" company. I am happy to introduce guests to Armenia – its history, culture and ancient traditions. For me as a guide, it is very important that every tour is clear, engaging and comfortable. Together we will explore famous landmarks, create beautiful memories and of course, take lively photos :) I will be happy to become your guide in Armenia. Travel with "Hyur Service" and discover Armenia not only with your eyes, but also with your heart.

Manya Gevorgyan

Manya Gevorgyan

RU HY EN

I have been a tour guide since 2015. To this day, every excursion is a great source of positive energy for me. During the tours, you will not only get acquainted with the sights, the country's history, and its architectural features, but also feel the full charm of the Armenian emotional mindset and lifestyle.

Anahit Aslanyan

Anahit Aslanyan

RU

Education – musical-pedagogical and cultural studies. I have worked in the fields of tourism, education, and culture in Russia and Armenia. Currently, I work as a guide at the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute and in the company "Hyur Service". As a person with a humanities education and a cultural studies mindset, I strive to present my homeland as comprehensively as possible so that visitors gain a general impression of the history and art of the Armenian people. I pay special attention to mental and cultural characteristics to make every visitor's stay in Armenia comfortable and positive. I continue to study and share new knowledge.

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