Self-Guided Walks at Lake Sevan

The Short Version

Sevan has no guided city walks, so a walking day here means a few short, self-guided outings. The shoreline is spread out, with Sevan town about 3 km from the water. Combine a peninsula climb with the cemetery at Noratus, and add Dilijan if you want longer trails.

Peninsula Steps at Sevanavank

From the car park, a stone staircase of about 200 steps climbs to the two churches. It is uneven and some sections lack railings, so wear shoes with good grip. Mapping sites mark a hiking trail on the peninsula, but its length is not given, so keep to clear paths. The site is free and open in daylight. It is an active church, so shoulders and knees should be covered. Read more: Sightseeing around Sevan .

Noratus on Foot

This is the easiest walk on the lake. The cemetery ground is flat and grassy, and you can wander it unhurried. Several hundred to almost a thousand carved khachkars stand over about 7 ha. Informal local guides sometimes offer commentary. Stay on the paths and keep off the stones, as the village church next door is still in use.

Mount Artanish

Mount Artanish rises near Shoghakat, formerly Shorzha, on the north-east shore. It is a hiking hill with a view across the whole lake. Pick a clear day, carry water and a windproof jacket, and tell your driver or hosts where you are going. Winds can rise suddenly at about 1,900 m.

Dilijan Trails

Dilijan is about 37 km from Sevan by road and has the best walking in the area. Old Dilijan includes Sharambeyan Street. The walk from Parz Lake to Goshavank is about 6.5 km, according to hiking guides. These need a day trip or a night away from the lake. Dilijan is outside the UK warning zones, but never use the Ijevan to Noyemberyan road.

Weather and Season

Spring and autumn days are good for the hill walks, while July and August bring the warmest afternoons. Nights stay cool at this altitude year round, and snow can close high roads in winter.

Walking Checklist

  • Shoes with grip for steps and loose ground
  • A windproof layer, hat and water
  • Shoulders and knees covered for the churches
  • Cash in dram for taxis

Reaching the Start Points

Sevan is 65 km from Yerevan, 1 to 1.5 hours by car. Minibuses stop in Sevan town after about 45 minutes to 1 hour 15, and t-armenia.com lists timetables. From town, take a short taxi ride to the peninsula.

See guided walking options on GetYourGuide .