The Call of the Mountains

The journey to Lake Sevan and Dilijan was not just a physical voyage, but a spiritual one. As I boarded the bus in Yerevan, I felt a familiar sense of anticipation, a whisper of the unknown that always accompanies the start of a new adventure. The air was crisp, and the morning sun cast a golden hue over the city, promising a day of discovery.

Our guide, Edward, was a masterful storyteller, weaving tales of Armenia’s rich history and culture as we traveled. His passion for his homeland was palpable, and his ability to switch seamlessly between English and Russian was nothing short of impressive. As we wound our way through the mountains, Edward’s stories painted vivid pictures of the landscapes we passed, each tale a brushstroke on the canvas of Armenia’s past.

The drive to Lake Sevan was a journey through time, each bend in the road revealing a new chapter of Armenia’s story. The lake itself, a shimmering expanse of blue nestled among the mountains, was a sight to behold. Standing on the peninsula, with the ancient Sevanavank monastery behind me and the vastness of the lake before me, I felt a profound sense of peace. It was as if the lake held the secrets of the ages, whispering them to those who took the time to listen.

A Symphony of Nature and History

Our next stop was Dilijan, often referred to as the “Armenian Switzerland” for its lush forests and serene beauty. The town, part of the Dilijan National Park, was a breath of fresh air, a place where nature and history danced in harmony. As we strolled through the town, Edward continued to share his wealth of knowledge, his words a symphony that brought the past to life.

The highlight of our visit to Dilijan was the Haghartsin Monastery, a testament to the enduring spirit of Armenia. Nestled in the woodlands, the monastery was a blend of nature and architecture, each stone telling a story of faith and resilience. The recent renovations, funded by a generous benefactor, had breathed new life into the ancient structure, yet it retained its timeless charm.

As I wandered through the monastery, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own journey. Like the monastery, I too was in a state of renewal, each experience a building block in the reconstruction of my life. The serenity of the surroundings offered a moment of introspection, a chance to pause and appreciate the beauty of the present.

The Tapestry of Armenia

Our final destination was Goshavank, a monastery surrounded by verdant landscapes. Founded by the medieval scientist and fabulist Mkhitar Gosh, the complex was a hub of religious and cultural activity in its time. The intricate khachkars, or cross-stones, were a testament to the skill and artistry of the craftsmen who created them, each one a piece of the tapestry that is Armenia.

As I stood among the ruins, I felt a connection to the past, a sense of belonging that transcended time and place. The stories of those who had walked these paths before me echoed in the wind, a reminder that we are all part of something greater than ourselves.

The journey back to Yerevan was a time for reflection, the landscapes we had traversed now etched in my memory. The tour had been more than just a sightseeing trip; it was a journey of self-discovery, a chance to explore not only the beauty of Armenia but also the depths of my own soul.

In the end, it was the people who made the experience truly unforgettable. Edward, with his passion and knowledge, and our drivers, Aro and Levon, who navigated the winding roads with skill and care, had all played a part in creating a journey that would stay with me long after I returned home. Armenia had captured my heart, and I knew that I would return, drawn once again by the call of the mountains and the promise of new adventures.