Private tour: Hiking from Lake Parz (Crystal) to Goshavank Monastery
Hiking from Lake Parz (Crystal) to Goshavank Monastery
1. Hiking from Lake Parz to Goshavank Monastery
170-180 min
Boating is especially popular – the water here is calm and clear and the reflections of clouds and trees create a dreamlike scene. On sunny days the lake shimmers in shades of green and blue, while in misty mornings it seems wrapped in a mysterious veil. In autumn Parz bursts into bright colors as the surrounding forest turns into a golden palette. In winter the lake takes on a special charm – quiet, majestic and as if frozen in time.
Lake Parz is a place where one can feel harmony with nature and rest the soul while enjoying the peace and beauty of Armenia.
2. Goshavank Monastery
40-50 min
The complex is home to several churches, the Church of Saint Gregory the Illuminator being the centerpiece, alongside a library and various auxiliary buildings. At the entrance, visitors are greeted by a masterpiece of Armenian stone carving the 1291 khachkar crafted by master Poghos, regarded as one of the finest in the country. Its delicate patterns and profound symbolism seem to hold the prayers and hopes of its creator, preserved in stone for centuries.
Near the library once stood a thriving school, now reduced to ruins, where invaluable manuscripts were created and meticulously copied. In its golden age, Goshavank was more than a monastic retreat it was a beacon of learning, where faith and knowledge worked hand in hand.
Today, the sight of its enduring walls invites visitors to step into an atmosphere where Armenian thought, art and spirituality flourished for centuries.
Inclusions
-
Professional instructor services (English, Russian, or Armenian)
-
Transportation to/from hiking area
-
Air-conditioned vehicles
-
Lunch boxes, when "include lunch" option is chosen
-
Bottled water
-
Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan
-
Vehicle & passengers insurance
-
Extra stops on the route upon request
Exclusions
-
Significant deviations from the route
-
Wi-Fi in the vehicles
What to expect
- Hiking duration: 2.5-3 hours
- Distance: 8 km
- Difficulty level: easy
- Elevation: ↑343 m ↓452 m (1233-1561 m above sea level)
- Season: April – November
- You will be guided by most skilful instructor, whose services are foreseen for a group consisted of up to 10 people. In case of more participants extra sum is to be charged
- Recommended items in your hiking checklist: hiking boots or shoes, hiking backpack, wear-resistant socks for walking long distances, windproof jacket, fleece jacket, trekking poles, sсunglasses with a factor of at least 3, sunscreen SPF50, headgear, breathable light trousers, long sleeves T-shirt, thin fleece gloves, first-aid kit. The list can be shortened or supplemented based on personal experience
- The possibility of arranging hiking depends on weather conditions
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification
Meet our Guides
Hayk Harutyunyan
Dear friends! We work for 11 months in order to have 22 days vacation, and you've decided to choose Armenia to turn your vacation into a holiday! Our team has prepared everything to provide the best service, and with me, you'll unzip Armenia's picturesque beauty, architectural and natural monuments, as well learn a lot about the history and geography, economics and social issues, culture, and nature of our Homeland.
Tigran Balyan
Hello, I am Tigran a guide in my wonderful and lovely Armenia ❤️ I am guiding in my country and with this passion I can share kindness, joy and smiles to my tourists. My experience is already 7 plus years and I enjoy architecture, wine and mountains in amazing Armenia.
Samvel Mkrtumyan
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!
Hasmik Manukyan
My name is Hasmik Manukyan. I have extensive experience and hold a tour guide license. I conduct excursions in two languages – Russian and German. I completed guide-interpreter courses in Yerevan, advanced training courses at the Institute for Continuing Education in Moscow and participated in an international training program, for which I hold certificates. I love my job and meeting new people. Every time, I’m delighted to introduce guests to the beauty and landmarks of my country, striving to ensure they leave satisfied, in love with Armenia and eager to return again.