Skiing in Armenia: Unveiling Adventure on Snow-Capped Peaks

Armenia’s winters are cold, snowy, and remarkably sunny, which means… It's a perfect destination for lovers of skiing! Check out some of the top locations in the country for winter sports. 

Armenia’s top skiing spot since Soviet times, Tsaghkadzor is still the country’s most famous winter sports destination. The town is easily accessible from both Yerevan and Dilijan, and a mere 20 minutes from Lake Sevan. Tsaghkadzor boasts twelve ski slopes of varying difficulty, and its five-station ski lift extends 1137 metres up the slope of Mt. Teghenis. For most of the eight-minute journey, you’re floating above fairy-dusted forests. In addition to skiing, there are also opportunities for snowboarding, sledding and snowmobiling. Lessons and equipment rentals are available onsite and cafes and hotels are abundant in the area. Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Kecharis monastery, a complex boasting four chapels from the 11th-13th centuries. 

In the far northwest corner of Armenia, about one hour north of charming Gyumri, lies Ashotsk. Due to its winter lows of -30 C, it’s known as Armenia’s coldest region. Although it’s freezing there, the snow-blanketed hills sparkle under sunny skies for at least five months of the year. If you like winter sports, you can see the perks. Visit Ashotsk for great cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and tube-sledding. You can rent equipment and book classes and tours at the Ashotsk ski centre. Sometimes, the centre organises competitions. Annual winter festivals draw lovers of snow to both Ashotsk and the nearby village of Amasia for experiencing local tastes and drinks, great music and of course – winter sports. You can try short runs on snowmobiles and sleds for free. 

The Myler Cluster project is a year-round mountain resort on the mountain slopes east of Mount Aragats, in the Aparan region of Armenia. Armenia’s newest ski complex, the resort opened in 2023 and boasts a lift with 16 stations, 100 marked ski pistes and a skiable vertical drop of 972 metres. The complex offers several opportunities for overnight guests, including its primary ski village, boutique alpine village, lakefront and golf village. 

Jermuk, a forested resort town renowned for its healing waters, sees significant snowfall in the winter months. Ride the town’s ski-lift for an amazing view of the Vayots Dzor region below before exploring three kilometres of ski runs. The best part? Soak your sore muscles in natural mineral baths and hot pools at one of the town’s resorts. 

In Lernanist, a small village halfway between Yerevan and Lake Sevan, you can enjoy downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and sledding for the family. The slopes are not steep or long, so this is a great destination for families with young children. Rent equipment on the spot and take advantage of the small lift that transports skiers and sledders up the slope. 

Sounds fun? You have lots of slopes to choose from, and after a day on the snow, picture relaxing in a cosy resort, and sipping on a cup of hot chocolate or cognac that warms you to your bones. Skiing is always a thrill. In Armenia, add the rich cultural tapestry, untouched landscapes and the warmth of the people and you’re in for the perfect adventure.