Sevan: The pearl of Armenia

If the sun kisses your skin, the lake plays a relaxing music and the light breeze mixes your hair than you are in Sevan. This charming lake is one of the natural treasures of Armenia that changes its colors depending on the weather and time. It is the largest lake in the Caucasus and one of the largest freshwater high-altitude (alpine) lakes in Eurasia. The Pearl of Armenia is situated in Gegarkhunik Province. The distance between the lake and Yerevan is just 60km so it’s easy to get there and to ride back the same day should you travel from Yerevan.

Sevan had one island that because of the water level reduction became a peninsula. There, on the top of the stairs, closer to the sky, is standing the Monastery of Sevan/ Sevanavank (305 a. d.) as well as two churches (874 a. d.). The breathtaking scenery from above, when the sunshine is playing with the waves of the lake and white seagulls soar around the water, makes you think that you are following how the planet is meditating.

Wishup shore is much likes by travelers. There you can meet many internationals as well. During the day, besides swimming, suntanning and experiencing an assortment of lake adventures, you can also go for fishing. If you think you are not good at fishing there are many restaurants that serve local crayfish, fish as well as Armenian traditional food. One of the places liked by locals is the restaurant called "Semoi mot" where you can find assortments of fish dishes. The “Noy Land” restaurant offers an exciting opportunity: this floating restaurant will basically take you to the middle of the lake where you can enjoy both the meal and the view. Newly opened studio-tea House “Bohem” is another nice place to spend evenings in a good atmosphere.

Armenia has many nice sites but Sevan is mind-blowing, especially in the evenings. Sunset wraps this pearl in its beautiful colors. Evenings are usually cold here, even if it is summer. It’s a good reason to make a fire by the lake or to walk on the sand that 3-4 hours after the sunset still keeps the warmth of the sun.