Top Natural Sites

Armenia is rich in incredible natural, historical, and cultural landscapes, offering countless captivating attractions to the curious and adventurous traveler. Visit hundreds of breathtaking and unique natural sites in Armenia to add vibrant colors to your trip. Check out the best natural attractions below to fully appreciate Armenia's untouched beauty.

Symphony of Stones

Don’t miss the chance to take spectacular pictures in front of the Symphony of Stones – the majestic natural monument at the Azat River Gorge. The locals named this natural composition a “Symphony of Stones” because the stones resemble a musical instrument – the organ. This location is a striking illustration of how nature is the best architect and sculptor. Include the Symphony of Stones in your trip to Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery.

Take some memorable photos to “wow” your pals back home. The scenery will not disappoint.

Lake Sevan

Climb the stairs up to the Sevan Peninsula and take some fantastic shots with the blue beauty of Lake Sevan in the background. Lake Sevan, a special natural location in the Gegharkunik region, is the second-largest freshwater source in the world by height. Mountains surrounding the lake ensure moderate summers and chilly winters. Visit the lake's Sevanavank and Hayravank Monasteries, as well as the Noratus cemetery of antique cross stones, when you are there.

It takes just one hour to go from Yerevan to Lake Sevan. Seize the moment to take in the breathtaking vistas.

Parz Lake

Are you looking for some quiet spots in nature? Then, definitely make a point to visit Lake Parz in the Tavush region. It is located within the territory of Dilijan National Park and is about 2 hours drive from Yerevan. The road leading to the lake is mesmerizing – all you need to do is breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the views of the dense forest. When near the lake, enjoy its tranquility and take some scenic shots.

Visit Lake Parz from October to November if you want colorful autumn vibes.

Gosh Lake

If you want to connect with nature, go to Lake Gosh. It's just you, the lake, the forest, and the sky - what a great time! It takes about 3 kilometers of hiking to reach Lake Gosh. Only true nature lovers choose to visit and enjoy its steep hiking trail. It is a small mountain lake formed by melting snow and springs.

Lake Gosh, surrounded by the dense forests of Dilijan National Park, is a must-see natural site in Armenia.

Shaki Waterfall

Capture some rainbows in the water over Shaki Waterfall, Syunik's pearl of nature. Located in Syunik province, you will need around 3,5 hours to drive to the waterfall. However, as soon as you walk down the narrow path from the parking lot to the waterfall, you will realize that the drive was well worth it.

Visit the waterfall in the spring to take advantage of its full potential due to snow melting and rainwater capacity.

Jermuk Waterfall

While Jermuk is well-known for its mineral water supplies, you will be blown away by another one of its attractions: Jermuk Waterfall, otherwise known as "Mermaid's Hair.”

The Arpa River creates the waterfall, which can be reached by driving or walking down from Jermuk spa town. Make time to visit one of Armenia's most beautiful natural sites while in Jermuk.

Vorotan River

The main water supply in the Syunik region, the Vorotan River, is a unique natural site in Armenia. The river is around 180 km in length and flows through Syunik, creating stunning nature scenes along the way. There are also several sightseeing places on the banks of the Vorotan River, such as Tatev's Grand Hermitage or Tatev's Mets Anapat.

The river also formed another impressive natural site – the Devil's Bridge.

Devil's Bridge

When you visit the Syunik region, make sure you stop by the Devil's Bridge, especially if you are the adventurous type. Devil's Bridge might lead you to expect scary and spooky devils under the bridge, right? Well, that is almost correct. When you look down from both sides of the bridge, you can see that less water enters and more water gets out from the bridge. Locals suspected the devil was involved, but the truth is that the water volume increases due to natural springs beneath the bridge.

The vast spikes and pillars below the bridge make this site even more impressive and are not to be missed.

Debed Canyon

Are you looking for breathtaking views? Remember to stop by the cliff and enjoy the scenic view of Debed Canyon. Located in the Lori region, Debed Canyon is a top spot to enjoy nature to the fullest and take some great shots from different locations. You can have lovely canyon views from Alaverdi's Sanahin residential quarter, Odzun, or Akori villages.

Getting the astonishing views of Debed Canyon during sunset or early sunrise is even more charming.

Mount Azhdahak

Do you love hiking – especially up a mountain? Then, Mount Azhdahak is what you need. Located in Gegharkunik province, Mount Azhdahak was a volcano that erupted thousands of years ago. The colors of the highest peak of the Geghama Mountains, Azhdahak, claim its volcanic origin. The hike to Mount Azhdahak is delightful, with a small mountain lake formed over the crater due to snow melting.

It is one of the most picturesque natural sites in Armenia, so make sure you include it on your list.

Mount Aragats

The highest peak in Armenia, Mount Aragats, is a must-see natural site in Armenia. You will need an hour to get as close to the mountain as Lake Kari. The way up to the mountain is breathtaking, offering scenic views of surrounding mountains, including Mount Ara and Arteni, and the beauty of the Armenian highlands – Mount Ararat. There are also some cultural sites on the slopes of Mount Aragats you might find interesting to visit.

If you plan to hike the peaks of Mount Aragats (the highest one, 4090m), make sure you start your trip as early as possible and focus on your hike.

Lake Arpi

One of the most picturesque natural sites in Armenia, Lake Arpi summarizes our list of top natural sites. Located in the Shirak region, Lake Arpi is about 3 hours from Yerevan. Visit Lake Arpi during the bird migration period (early Spring and Autumn), and you might also see common flamingos, cormorants, egrets, and herons. Lake Arpi National Park, extending over the surrounding green areas of the lake, aims to protect the vegetation and wildlife of the territory.

If you want to relax from the hustle of big cities, visiting Lake Arpi will be a delight.