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Best Places for Winter Photography

Best Places for Winter Photography

#Winter

#Activity

#Nature

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Prepare for a journey through Armenia's winter wonderland, where every corner reveals a picture-perfect scene waiting to be captured. Here’s a list of the most enchanting locations for your snowy snapshots.

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Head out of the city to get the most dramatic photographs. If you like winter hiking, make sure you have the right equipment (hiking boots with good grip, poles, waterproof trousers, gaiters, good gloves and extra layers)! And don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen. Armenia boasts an average of 300 days of sun per year. The sunshine in combination with the high altitude can leave you with an unexpected winter sunburn.

 

Lake Sevan

When exploring Lake Sevan, there are several exceptional spots to visit for panoramic vistas. Easily reachable by car, Sevanavank monastery stands as a magnificent lookout point. Hiking enthusiasts should consider ascending the peak of Artanish. The snow and wind can be intense here, but embracing the elements proves rewarding! Situated at the narrowest point of the lake, where the basin of Big Sevan meets Little Sevan, Artanish boasts unmatched panoramic views of the lake below and the surrounding mountain ranges.

 

Trchkan Waterfall

One of the tallest waterfalls in Armenia, Trchkan is majestic any time of year. In winter, witness its transformation as cascading water turns into a frozen spectacle, forming layers of ice that create a mesmerizing sight at its base. The waterfall is accessible by foot or car from the village of Sarapat, where a trail and road run parallel to the Chichkhan River. A longer hiking option starts from Shirakamut village.

 

Mt. Tezhkar

Situated just an hour's drive from Yerevan, Mt. Tezhkar promises a spectacular view. Park your car in Tigranashen village and then embark on the steep but rewarding hike, winding through underbrush and small trees. The snow-capped peaks of Ararat appear almost larger than life on a crisp winter day! After summiting, you have the option to descend the mountain or extend your adventure by exploring the popular neighboring "Hell’s Canyon."

 

Smbataberd

Smbataberd is one of Armenia’s most impressive medieval fortresses, nestled on the ridgeline between the villages of Artabuynk and Yeghegis in the rugged Vayots Dzor region. A moderate and scenic hike will take you to the peak, where Smbataberd, meaning “Smbat’s fortress,” stands proud and majestic. You’ll get an excellent 360 degree view of the dramatic Vartenis mountain range and surrounding peaks, which radiate a special energy when snowcovered.

 

Khor Virap

This renowned spot is one of the most popular places to photograph Mt. Ararat, which looms larger than life behind it. Khor Virap is also the birthplace of Armenian Christianity. As legend has it, St. Gregory the Illuminator was banished in a pit here when King Trdat initially rejected the new Christian religion. A monastery was later built on the site of the pit in commemoration of St. Gregory’s faithfulness. From the walls of Khor Virap, pilgrims and visitors alike are captivated by the arresting sight of the snow-capped Ararat.

 

Noravank Monastery

Traveling to Noravank is almost as magnificent as exploring the monastery itself. To reach it, visitors must drive or walk several kilometers along the road through the dramatic Gnishik River Canyon with its towering rock walls and caves. The snow makes Noravank’s ruddy stone walls (and the red rock cliffs behind it) pop magnificently. Check out the view of the monastery above from the cliffs opposite it by hiking along nearby marked trails (https://hikearmenia.org/all-trails/trail/noravank-trail).

 

Azat Reservoir

Located only 30 minutes from Yerevan, Azat reservoir is magnificent on a winter evening when the weather is clear. The light snow looks like powdered sugar, dusting the hills and mountains around it. Mt. Yeranos stands tall on the northeast of the reservoir, while Mt. Ararat hovers on the southwest horizon.

Note: Get the best aerial shots of nature from the sky! Check out tandem paraplanning and paragliding, helicopter rides and hot air balloon trips over the Garni Gorge, Lake Sevan and Azat Reservoir.

 

MyLer

Armenia’s newest haven for skiers, Myler is a year-round mountain resort on the slopes east of Mt. Aragats in the Yeghipatrush village near Lake Aparan. The complex boasts amazing views of the surrounding mountains, a total of 16 lifts and 100 ski runs, and a cosy cafe near the upper station of the Nare express lift. What about urban destinations?

 

Cascade

If you can’t get to a real mountain, climb the 572 steps of the Cascade monument in downtown Yerevan for a brilliant view of snow-capped Mt. Ararat. Escalators are available at the base of the monument through the Cafesjian Center for the Arts.

Continue up past the stairs of the Cascade to the obelisk above (dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Soviet Union in Armenia). There, you’ll experience an even wider panorama of the city and mountains beyond.

For peak altitude during your urban exploration, visit Victory Park, a short walk from the Cascade. The massive Ferris wheel (with enclosed seats) promises a 360-degree view of Yerevan and its iconic landmarks as well as the surrounding peaks of Mt. Ararat, Mt. Aragats, Mt. Ara and Mt. Yeranos.

 

Charents’ Arch

As you journey from Yerevan to Garni, be sure to pause at Charents’ Arch, a tribute to Yeghishe Charents, one of Armenia's eminent modern poets. Against the backdrop of Mt. Ararat, this arch offers a picturesque frame of Yerevan's cityscape, inviting you to capture its beauty on camera.

Mother Armenia

Both Yerevan and Gyumri have massive stone “Mother Armenia” statues – female personifications of the Armenian nation. From Gyumri’s monument, you can enjoy an unobstructed view of Mt. Aragats and the snowy church domes below.

 

Yerevan Winter Park

This is a romantic spot for ice-skating, hot drinks and beautiful pictures against a backdrop of snow and fairy lights.

 

Jermuk

Once a bustling Soviet-era resort town, the city of Jermuk is still beloved by locals and tourists for its healing waters and peaceful nature. With its evergreen forests, mountain views and heavy snowfall, it’s a wonderland in the winter. Snap magical photos and return to your hotel for a spa treatment. What’s not to love?

 

Tsaghkadzor

Known as Armenia’s most famous ski town, Tsaghkadzor boasts an abundance of winter sports, including skiing, sledding, snowmobiling and more. Its chairlift offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and mountains. After a day on the picturesque slopes, enjoy fine dining and cosy resorts.Dilijan

Nestled in nature and easily accessible from Yerevan, the town of Dilijan invites visitors who enjoy a break from the city and ample opportunities for hiking. Check out the Dilijan Tourist Information Centre for advice on winter treks to Haghartsin Monastery, Goshavank, Parz Lake and other popular spots.  —-In conclusion, whether you're drawn to Armenia's natural wonders or its urban landscapes, winter provides a unique opportunity to capture the country's beauty in all its snowy glory. So grab your camera, bundle up, and embark on a photography adventure that promises memories to last a lifetime. Happy snapping!

Published on October 15, 2024