Upon arrival at Sevan, you can stay at one of the modern campsites or hotels located right on the lake's shoreline. Often in the summer, hotels are overcrowded with vacationers. The infrastructure is mainly represented by comfortable and equipped 3 *, 4 * and 5 * hotels, which offer not only hotel rooms, but also a whole range of services. Indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, various spa treatments, tennis courts, water parks, beauty salons, billiards, playgrounds - this is not a complete list of all the pleasures.
In most hotels, the staff speaks English and Russian. The beaches on the coast of Sevan are often sandy and well equipped, but sometimes there are also wild ones with small pebbles.
If you are vacationing in a small company (4-5 people), then it is quite profitable to rent a small house, the cost of which is quite modest - only $ 15 per day. And for a luxurious cottage with all amenities, be prepared to shell out about $80.
Sights of Sevan
Lake Sevan itself, with its stunningly picturesque expanses, is already a great attraction. But if you come here, then by all means go to the mountains to feel the greatness of the Caucasus ranges. For example, climb the Azhdahak volcano, which is the highest point of the Geghama mountain range. There is a small lake in the crater of the volcano, and from a height of 3600 m an unforgettable panoramic view of the Armenian Highlands and Lake Sevan opens up.
The main attraction of Lake Sevan is the medieval Sevanavank Monastery, represented by a whole complex of small buildings. The monastery was founded back in 874 by the daughter of Ashot I Bagratuni, Princess Mariam, who, according to legend, wanted to find loneliness.
The building of the monastery is unique in that it was made of massive blocks of black tuff, which did not lend itself to polishing and intricate carvings. This style is inherent in most Armenian churches. Only a few small churches and cells have survived to this day. Currently, the monastery has resumed its operation, and in the sanctuary itself there is a theological seminary named after Vazgen I. The observation deck of the monastery offers a magnificent view of the lake, from where you can enjoy the magnificent scenery.
On the western shore of Sevan there is another Christian attraction - the Hayravank Monastery, which was built in the 9th century. The monastery complex consists of a church, a chapel built in the 10th century. and a narthex completed in the 12th century.
Around the monastery you can see many tombstones and khachkars (stone steles with crosses carved on them), which are part of a large ancient cemetery. There are many crosses on the walls of the main entrance to the church, which were applied by pilgrims coming here for hundreds of years.
In the architecture of the church arch, elements of a stalactite ceiling are clearly expressed, which takes part in the alternation of shadow and light due to the movement of sunlight. A magnificent view of the lake and adjacent areas opens from the territory of the Hayravank monastery, and a Bronze Age fortress can be seen to the north-west of the building.
Selim Gorge
A long time ago, the Silk Road passed in this place, connecting the Mediterranean with East Asia. It was here that a huge number of caravans passed, which transported jewelry and expensive goods. Since merchants and travelers needed rest, the Selim caravanserai was built along the way by order of the local prince Orbelyan.
Nortus Museum
A special place is the Nortus Open Air Museum. Here, the Armenian ancient culture is quite clearly expressed, represented by hundreds of unique khachkars of the 13th-14th centuries.
We strongly recommend that you visit the excursion on the ship "Kilikia", the design of which was built according to ancient drawings. Even a round-the-world trip was made on this ship, and today sightseeing tours around the lake are carried out on it.
Lake Sevan is a very popular resort for outdoor enthusiasts. For those tourists who cannot imagine a good rest without movement and sports, there are football and volleyball courts, tennis courts, equestrian clubs, water parks.
There are a lot of water activities in Sevan, such as boat or yacht rides, pedal boats, water trampolines. Most hotels rent out all the necessary equipment for surfing and fishing.
Recently, Sevan has become a popular destination not only for beach holidays and eco-tourism, but also as a ski resort. On the northern shore of the lake in the mountains, a modern-equipped cable car was opened.
Money
Upon arrival in Armenia, be sure to change the currency, since the calculation is always carried out exclusively in the national currency - drams. Currency exchange offices are located in all cities and accept dollars, Russian rubles, euros, francs, pounds, etc. without any problems.
In addition, you can exchange currency not only in exchange offices and banks, but also at any merchant in the store. Withdrawing money from an ATM will not be a problem, but you are unlikely to be able to pay with a payment card, since only 4 * and 5 * hotels accept payments on them.
shopping
Most shops and large shops are open daily from morning until late evening. Be sure to do not forget to bargain in the market - this is welcome.
With the purchase of souvenirs, there should not be any particular difficulties. Mandatory in the truest sense of the word are:
Souvenir No. 1 is undoubtedly the famous Armenian cognac, which is sold in all stores. The most popular brands are considered to be Armenian cognac, Ararat, Noy, Armenika. A bottle of 0.75 liters of high-quality drink will cost at least 6500 AMD.
Souvenir No. 2 - Armenian carpet with traditional ornament.
Among the popular souvenirs bought by tourists, there are also wooden products (vases, coasters for horse bottles), copper Turks, glassware, dolls - amulets made using the tapestry technique, bronze figurines.
Rest on Lake Sevan will bring many benefits to everyone without exception. The purest mountain air and many mineral springs will surely have a positive effect on your health, positively charge you with vigor and energy for a long time.
Sevan is one of the most popular and visited cities in Armenia. A great merit in this, of course, belongs to the real pearl of Armenia, Lake Sevan, which is the second largest high-altitude freshwater lake in the world (for reference: the honorable first place belongs to the South American lake). But dry facts alone cannot describe all the splendor of Sevan: the picturesque mountains, turning into alpine meadows, clean air, sandy bottom and, of course, the magical azure hue of the water, fascinate and captivate, making you come back here again and again.
I love water very much, the sea is my love forever, and in Armenia Sevan replaces for me the same sea with endless water surface. Unless the water is salty. :)
For the first time I visited Sevan as a child: then I was only interested in the opportunity to splash in the water - so cold, and at the same time so attractive. Now I love Sevan for something completely different: for its views, as if descended from the canvases of the Impressionists, for the opportunity to gather my thoughts, looking at the water surface, for the pacification, giving way to the cries of Sevan gulls, for amazing sunsets, as well as for new, hitherto undiscovered sightseeing in the vicinity.
I hope my story will help you feel the spirit of Sevan, after which you will always want to visit this beautiful city!
How to get there
I will tell you how to get to Sevan directly from the airport.
How to get from the airport to the city
Taxi and private transfer, in my opinion, are the most convenient ways to get to Sevan. First of all, because hotels can be located on different parts of the lake's coastline, and even if you choose long-distance transport, you still have to catch a ride or taxi to be taken directly to the desired hotel.
Considering that the average taxi price per kilometer is about 0.25 USD (100 Armenian drams / AMD), a trip from Yerevan airport to Sevan will cost you only 18–19 USD (9,000 AMD), and from Gyumri - 33 USD ( 16,000 AMD).
A little more expensive is the order of an individual transfer, which is offered by many local travel companies and hotels. In this case, we will talk about 45 USD if you start the trip from Yerevan, but you are guaranteed to be met at the airport, and the trip will be as comfortable as possible.
By train
As I noted earlier, the direct rail link between Russia and Armenia is closed indefinitely. This is due to two regional conflicts: Armenian-Azerbaijani and Russian-Georgian. In this regard, I will tell you about the route by train to the lake in case you are already on the territory of Armenia.
From Yerevan
You can get to Sevan by train, or as I call it “mega retro train”, if you are already in Yerevan. True, this option is only possible in the summer months. The schedule changes every year, so you need to check it in advance. But usually trains from Yerevan to Sevan run from mid-June to early September, that is, during the peak season.
Trains depart not from the Main Yerevan Station, which I talked about, but from the Almast station, which is located in the north of Yerevan. You can get to this station by bus number 24.
How to get from the railway station to the lake
Trains arrive at the Peninsula station, which is located directly opposite the most touristic area of Sevan with the towering monastery complex of Sevanavank.
Trains are not the fastest route option, as they are not fast, and in the absence of traffic jams, it will be faster to get here by bus. But there is still a plus: trains reach Shorzha, which I will talk about below.
So, you will get to Peninsula station from Yerevan in about 1.5 hours (ticket price - 1.25 USD or 600 AMD), and to Shorzha station in 2 hours (ticket price - 2 USD or 1,000 AMD).
By bus
Getting to Armenia by bus is preferred either by aerophobes, or by those who want to minimize the travel budget. In fairness, it should be noted that with the ever-increasing number of direct flights from Russia, the difference between the price of a bus ticket and a plane ticket is becoming very small.
Today there are a huge number of companies that carry out transportation by bus from many Russian cities to Armenia. In general, we can say that during the season, buses run every day. You can read more about this.
On my own behalf, I want to add that I do not advise choosing this method from November to March, since the pass in Upper Lars, through which all transport from Russia to Georgia and Armenia passes, is very often closed due to weather conditions, and there is a risk of getting stuck there even for a few days.
From Yerevan
Buses from Russia almost always stop near the Yerevan railway station. You can find out more about it, and how to get to the center of Yerevan from the station. In addition, the route of many transport companies lies through Sevan, so feel free to clarify this fact and you can ask for a stop right next to the lake.
I also want to note that there is a bus service between Yerevan and Sevan. I will say right away that this method is not the most convenient and fastest, but it is economical. Buses to Sevan depart from the Northern Bus Station of Yerevan, which can be reached from the city center by bus number 46 (the fare is about 0.20 USD). As the name suggests, the Northern Bus Station is located north of the center of Yerevan. It takes about 25 minutes to get to it from the center, taking into account traffic jams.
The building of the North Station is small, it is made of orange tuff (local stone of volcanic origin). There are a lot of intercity minibuses near the station, and you need to go to them after you get off at the right stop.
Already here you need to transfer to minibus No. 317 or bus No. 316, which will take you to Sevan. The fare for a bus will be about 1.25 USD, and for a minibus - 1.5 USD.
As I already mentioned, this type of transport does not reach directly to the lake and hotels located on the shore.
How to get from the stop to the lake
The bus makes a stop in the city of Sevan, you can see the exact place on the map below:
Therefore, you will need to catch a taxi to your destination. Some, by the way, agree with the minibus driver himself, and for a small surcharge he goes further, to the lake.
By car
When traveling by car from Russia, there may be the same problems that I described in the section above. In addition, in the summer season, be prepared for a long line all in the same Verhem Lars. And yet, if you decide to lay your own route in Armenia, your own car will be most welcome.
From Moscow and St. Petersburg
The distance from Moscow to Sevan is about 2,200 km.
From St. Petersburg a little more - almost 3,000 km.
The road runs along the M4 Don highway, covering a number of large cities, including Rostov-on-Don, Pyatigorsk, Nalchik and Vladikavkaz. Further, after you pass Lars, the road will pass along the Georgian side.
Clue:
Sevan - the time is now
Hour difference:
Moscow - 1
Kazan - 1
Samara 0
Yekaterinburg 1
Novosibirsk 3
Vladivostok 6
When is the season. When is the best time to go
I can definitely assure you that Sevan is beautiful at any time of the year. Of course, the traditional Sevan season opens from mid-June and lasts until mid-September, when the air and water temperatures are the most optimal for swimming. However, who would turn their tongues to downplay the beauty of such beautiful lakes as Garda and Lago Maggiore in Italy, the Austrian Lake Wolfghansee or, for example, Lake Geneva, in the so-called "off season". So the beauty of Sevan does not know the season.
Perhaps the only fly in the ointment here is the insufficient attention and support of local authorities, because Sevan has every chance to be on a par with the above resorts. But so far, unfortunately, the main focus is on the summer season, and the rest of the year Sevan is not crowded, which is why most hotels prefer to close.
But let's still take a closer look at all four seasons in Sevan.
Sevan in summer
As I already mentioned, summer is the main season in Sevan. The main influx of tourists occurs in mid-July and August. At this time, the hottest season (and hot both in terms of weather and in terms of prices). The air temperature in July-August can reach +30 °C during the daytime (at the same time, it is still quite cool in the evening - about +18 °C), and traditionally cold water in the lake warms up to +22–24 °C.
Also keep in mind that on Saturday-Sunday, locals come to Sevan to swim, mostly residents of Yerevan, so finding a free hotel room is extremely problematic.
It is very important to take sunscreen with maximum SPF to Sevan in the summer - the weather here is very deceptive. You will not even notice how, hiding in the shade, you will earn yourself a sunburn, because even the wind burns in Sevan. And to become like Sevan crayfish on the very first day of rest is a dubious joy. :)
Sevan in autumn
The swimming season in Sevan closes in mid-September, but the "Indian summer" in this season is felt especially brightly. The sun is still quite gentle, but not scorching, and the greenery around is in no hurry to give way to autumn colors.
From the end of September to mid-October, autumn comes into its legal rights. The air temperature both in the daytime and in the evening jumps quite sharply, but mostly stays within +12 °C. Therefore, at this time of the year, be sure to take warm clothes with you.
Perhaps the most inappropriate, in my opinion, month for a trip to Sevan is mid-November-early December. At this time, it is already quite cold and an unpleasant wind is not uncommon, especially directly near the lake. Autumn colors are already fading into the background, and the snow is still not dense enough on the mountains around to please the eye.
Sevan in spring
Despite the fact that the beach season in Sevan begins in summer, most of the hotels open their doors from the end of April. I think this policy is connected with the great interest in the resort during the May holidays. In fairness, it is worth noting that especially brave tourists manage to swim in the lake already at this time of the year, amusing and surprising the locals. And this is at an average water temperature of no more than +15 ° C!
The weather in Sevan in May is quite comfortable for walking, but in the evening, warmer clothes still do not hurt.
Sevan in winter
The lowest season in the resort starts in December and lasts until the end of March. Finding a functioning hotel at this time of the year is quite problematic, but I assure you that Sevan in winter has a special magic and will pleasantly surprise you with its magical views. Especially if the air temperature is so low that the water in the lake freezes over, as it did this year (which, by the way, is quite a rare occurrence).
The photo below only partly conveys all this beauty! This year, winter Sevan was a real paradise for photographers.
Therefore, spare no time and spend at least an hour or two admiring this picture drawn by nature itself!
Sevan - monthly weather
Clue:
Sevan - monthly weather
What are the prices for holidays
Holidays in Sevan can be both very budgetary and quite expensive compared to Armenian prices. Speaking about prices in general, I primarily mean accommodation, since food here is quite cheap, however, as in all of Armenia.
Residence
The highest season in hotels is July and August. At the same time, it is interesting that it is rather difficult for me to focus on prices in hotels, since here you can find hotels from the same category, where the cost of living can be as much as 50 USD for two with breakfast, or exactly twice as much. At the same time, overpaying, you may not notice much difference.
If you are traveling in a large company, you can immediately book a large cottage or villa at the hotel. This will save you enough money, and at the same time you will receive all the same service as when booking a hotel room.
The most budget option will be the previously mentioned private cottages for rent. You may not meet most of them on the Internet, and you will agree on a price and other issues with the owner already on the spot. The cost of such mini-cottages starts from about 20 USD per day.
By the way, what is remarkable, the prices for accommodation on the lake are absolutely independent of the area. I can even take the liberty of saying that there is practically no division into more or less prestigious areas here. The price in Sevan hotels is formed depending on the status and star rating of the hotel itself and the services it offers.
Nutrition
I will tell you more about Sevan restaurants below, but here it should be noted that the prices for food in Sevan are more than reasonable, and the portions are simply huge.
At the same time, keep in mind that in many cafes and restaurants of the resort you will not find a menu - the prices will be told to you verbally. It is important to specify the cost of everything, including snacks, otherwise at the end you may be told a tidy sum, and it turns out that, for example, the same snacks are priced almost higher than a huge portion of barbecue. Of course, such dishonest workers are extremely rare, but you should still be careful not to spoil your impression of this beautiful resort.
Transport
To be honest, I have not seen public transport at the resort. If you need to go somewhere, you can use the hotel transport (the most expensive option) or ask for a taxi. In this case, an approximate guideline for the price for you will be 0.20 USD per kilometer.
You can also catch a ride and negotiate a price with the driver. Many locals often give tourists free rides. For some reason, they often find themselves “on the road”, wherever you are going. :)
Main attractions. What to see
Sevan is not only a stunningly beautiful lake. Once in these parts, one cannot deny oneself the pleasure of touching ancient history and not visiting a number of beautiful sights, the main part of which are beautiful authentic monasteries and temples.
Before the trip, please note that it is preferable to take comfortable shoes. In summer, a hat and sunscreen are also required, as the Sevan sun can be merciless.
Top 3
Ayrivank Monastery
During a trip to Sevan, many travelers limit themselves to visiting only the Sevanavank Monastery, the main attraction of the city. However, in slightly more inaccessible places, real treasures are hidden, one of which is the Hayrivank Monastery (or, as it is also called Hayravank), which is of much greater interest to me personally.
Founded in the distant 9th century, the monastery complex Ayrivank impressed me with its contrast between the strict architecture of the building and the richly decorated vestibule. The fact is that at the time when the monastery was being built, the architecture was maintained in the most ascetic style. But the narthex was already decorated according to the traditions of the 13th century.
And, of course, the amazing view of the lake, which opens directly from the church, cannot but take your breath away!
Norashensky reserve and "Island of seagulls"
For me, seagulls are one of the symbols of Sevan (no exaggeration).
Lake Sevan was awarded the status of a national park in 1978 in order to protect water resources, flora and fauna and the ecosystem as a whole.
The Sevan National Park includes a number of nature reserves with a strict environmental regime. One of the most famous nature reserves of the national park is the Norashensky nature reserve, the purpose of which is to protect the unique nesting colony of Armenian gulls, listed in the Red Book.
The "Island of Seagulls" is simply a must-see, because soon it may disappear altogether. The fact is that with the rise in the water level in the lake, the island gradually goes under water, and perhaps soon the Armenian gull colonies, which are among the largest in the world, will have to look for other islands of gulls.
Extinct volcano Armagan
If you are tired of standard routes and prefer to go where the average tourist does not set foot, then you definitely need to climb Mount Armagan!
Armagan is an extinct volcano at an altitude of 2,829 meters. From here, a simply indescribable view of Lake Sevan and the Geghama Mountains opens. But this is not the only thing that awaits you when climbing the mountain: a small chapel was built at the very top, and there is also a small lake of unique beauty with crystal clear water.
Armagan is located near the city of Martuni. I advise you to develop such a route with a guide or travel agent, it will be problematic on your own. But professionals will take you to the most beautiful places, part of the ascent is even organized on horseback. In general, emotions will last for a long time!
Churches and temples. Which are worth a visit
Sevanavank
Sevanavank monastery complex is the main attraction and the most visited monastery in Sevan. Simple and austere, it is notable for being completely built from massive blocks of black tuff, which is very difficult to carve, process and polish.
This medieval monastery was built back in the time when Sevan was an island, not a peninsula, in 874 by Princess Mariam, the daughter of the founder of the Armenian kingdom of the Bagratids, Ashot I Bagratuni.
Surb Arakelots and Surb Karapet churches, as well as a cell and a theological seminary, have survived to this day, and a magnificent view of the lake and mountains opens from the observation deck of the complex.
Airivank
About this monastery, built in the 9th century, I have already told in more detail a little higher. Ayrivank is located on the western shore of the lake, on the outskirts of the village of the same name.
To find it, you need to turn onto the M10 highway, towards Gavar. After passing the villages of Tsovazard and Lchap, it is better to ask the locals for a short way. That's what I did, so I can't remember the exact route now. But it will not be difficult for you to recognize Ayrivank, since it is the only one that rises on a rocky cape on the very shore of the lake.
Makenis
Makenis Monastery (or Makenyats) is another significant attraction of Sevan, which is not so famous among tourists.
The monastery is located in the southern part of the lake, about 5 km from the shore, in the village of Makenis. In addition to its architectural significance, the monastery played a big role in the spread of written culture in Armenia and since the early Middle Ages has been one of the educational and religious centers of the country.
The complex consists of the church of Surb Astvatsatsin, the main church in the architectural ensemble, a chapel and a vestibule. If you visit the monastery complex, be sure to also pay attention to the khachkars, as well as interesting carvings on the church, in particular in the form of horses.
Vanevan
Another little-known monastery among tourists hid from the heads among the Geghama mountains. Vanevan, built in the 10th century, is located in the village of Artsvanist, on the edge of a gorge.
The main church of the monastery complex is the Church of St. Grigor Lusavorich, which was built in 903. It is noteworthy that the church itself was built of roughly hewn basalt, and the arches and domes of tufa.
In Vanevan you can enjoy absolute silence and unity with nature.
***
All these beautiful monasteries are active, and absolutely anyone can get here. Entry to the churches and monasteries of Sevan is free, although donations are welcome. On Sundays, as well as on church holidays, services are held in the monasteries, however, even at this time, tourists can enter the church if they wish. Taking pictures is also not prohibited.
Museums. Which are worth a visit
There are not many museums in Sevan, but they are definitely worth visiting. It is especially pleasant that the entrance to most of them is free.
Sevan Museum of Natural Science
This museum will interest both adults and children. The museum presents more than 700 exhibits that demonstrate: the flora and fauna of Sevan and its environs, the geological features of the place, as well as household and work tools that tell about the thousand-year history of the region.
The Sevan Museum of Natural Science is located in the city of Sevan, in the building of the Cultural Center. Accurate the address: Sayat-Nova, 14.
Opening hours and visiting: The museum is open from Monday to Friday - from 10:00 to 17:00, and on Saturday - from 10:00 to 13:00. Free admission.
Noratus
This is a real open-air museum. In fact, located in the village of the same name Noratus is the so-called cemetery of khachkars. Here is a unique collection of stone crosses. Almost 1,000 copies occupy an area of 7 hectares, and not a single ornament is repeated on khachkars.
Most of the khachkars of Noratus date back to the 13th-17th centuries, and the most ancient is the khachkar of the 5th century.
The most interesting, in my opinion, khachkars are those that depict the life of local residents, for example, with scenes from rural life and even a wedding.
Here you will definitely be told an interesting legend that says: when Tamerlane's troops broke into the village, local residents, realizing their small number compared to the horde of conquerors, put clothes on khachkars. The conquerors saw thousands of "warriors" and retreated, not daring to fight with the "armed soldiers".
Noratus is located in the village of the same name on the western bank of Sevan, about 5 km from the city of Gavar. The road from the city of Sevan to the cemetery of khachkars will take almost an hour (about 40 km). The easiest way is to take a taxi (calculation: 1 km = 0.20 USD) or a ride (if you're lucky, the locals will take you for free). If you get to Noratus from Yerevan, then from the Bus Station you can take a minibus number 326 to Gavar, and then by taxi or on foot.
Visiting Noratus is free.
Sevan Botanical Garden
Another place in Sevan, where both children and adults will be interested. The Sevan Botanical Garden is already notable for being located at an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level. About 450 European and Asian plant species are represented in the park.
Opening hours and visiting: The Botanical Garden is open to the public every day - from 09:00 to 18:00. The entrance is free.
Museum of Local Lore
In the museum, which is located in the city of Gavar, you can get acquainted with the general history of the region, learn interesting facts about Lake Sevan and the life of ordinary people, as well as admire paintings, ancient carpets, ancient tools, anchor and bronze daggers and jewelry found at excavations.
The museum is small, but it contains about 8,500 exhibits that tell about the history of the region, from the Stone Age to the present day.
Exact address: st. Zoravar Andranik, 32.
Opening hours and visiting: open from Monday to Friday - from 09:00 to 18:00. Admission is free, Russian-speaking guides also work.
Food. What to try
Going to Sevan and not trying the local fish and crayfish is a crime to say the least. This is already a kind of ritual and an obligatory item, without which the impressions of Sevan will be incomplete.
Of course, meat-eaters, vegans, and sweet-tooths will also find a large selection here, so it is unlikely that you will be able to leave Sevan with an empty stomach. I spoke in detail about Armenian goodies in my own.
The tourist areas of Sevan are not famous for an abundance of shops, so those who like to cook on their own will have to go to the city of Sevan or nearby Hrazdan (there is a large supermarket, the distance from the city of Sevan is about 20 km).
Holidays
Day of Lake Sevan
There are few city holidays in Sevan. National celebrations are celebrated here as in other cities of Armenia. But among the local festivities, perhaps, I will note the Day of Lake Sevan, which is celebrated on the last Sunday of August.
On this day, in the morning, under the control of the national park staff, a kind of subbotnik (cleaning the coastline) is held, and in the evening, many hotels organize parties.
Armenian Sailing Championship
In addition, the Sailing Championship is held in Sevan in mid-August.
The competition lasts as long as 7 days, and about 30 windsurfers participate in them. If not to participate, then at least it's worth watching the action.
Safety. What to watch out for
How to move around the region
Sevan - holidays with children
Sevan is a great choice for families with children! The cleanest air and water, hotels with slides and playrooms, several interesting museums, which I told you about above, will brighten up children's leisure.
The only thing to keep in mind is that not all hotels and restaurants are ready to provide a children's menu, so you will need to choose from what is available, or ask the chef to cook separately for the child if there are problems with food.
Also be sure to stock up on reliable sunscreen: Sevan will need it more than anywhere else.
Ski holidays
Ski passes
So far, I have used the Sevan chairlift only once and took a day pass, which a year ago (in 2016) was half the price of Tsakhkadzor. That is, a daily card costs approximately 10 USD (5,000 ADM). The same is true for ski rental.
As far as I know, only day ski passes are provided here so far, which can be purchased right next to the cable car, as well as in the Akhtamar Hotel located 2 kilometers away. The opening hours of the cable car are from 10:00 to 17:00.
Tracks
Sevan ski slopes - a real paradise for professionals. There are two routes here:
- serpentine, which stretches for 2 km;
- a real black track, which cannot be found even in Tsaghkadzor. Its length is 1.2 km.
There is also a fair amount of virgin snow here. for freeride lovers, as well as several gentle slopes for inexperienced skiers and children. For them, there is a training school, which is located on the territory of the aforementioned Akhtamar hotel.
The height of the Uryatstap mountain, on which the chairlift was built, is 2,324 m, and as for the route itself, its length is 1,130 m, with a height difference of up to 400 meters.
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Sevan is an alpine lake in Armenia, one of the largest lakes in the Caucasus, located in a mountain bowl at an altitude of almost 2 km above sea level. Today, Sevan and its environs are a well-known landmark of Armenia, which is worth seeing for all fans of the Caucasus and its beauties.
There is a legend about the origin of the lake. Once upon a time, fertile gardens bloomed in its place, irrigated with spring water. The key was small, but the pressure of the water was strong, so the hole from where the water flowed was covered with a large stone. Once a frivolous beauty took a jug of water and forgot to close the spring, going home to sleep. All night long, the water spouted from the spring in a powerful stream, flooding the neighborhood and flooding the houses. Finally, one of the old people cried out: “Let the one who did this turn into stone!” The girl jumped out on the threshold of her house and immediately turned to stone. And the water that arrived formed a lake with a stone island towering over Sevan, like the head of that careless beauty.
According to legend, only the gods and stars could drink the pure water of Sevan in ancient times.
The version of scientists about the origin of the lake is more prosaic: most likely, it appeared several millennia ago as a result of volcanic processes in the Geghama mountains.
Today, the Sevan National Park has been created here with several reserves and sanctuaries, and the lake itself is surrounded by numerous mineral springs, picturesque natural landscapes and cultural monuments, which annually attracts tourists from all over the world.
The area of Sevan is 1240 square kilometers, the depth is up to 100 meters. 28 rivers flow into it and the Hrazdan River flows out.
How to get there
Lake Sevan is most often reached through Yerevan. From Moscow to the capital of Armenia, 10 flights a day are made - from Vnukovo, Domodedovo or Sheremetyevo by Aeroflot, Armavia, Es Seven. Yerevan Airport is located 12 km from the city.
Buses and minibuses to Sevan run from the northern bus station of Yerevan. You need to take any minibus to the city of Sevan, Dilijan or Ijevan, travel time is about 1.5 hours, the fare is about 600 AMD one way. Minibuses to the city of Sevan are the least convenient, as it is located away from the lake. But minibuses to Dilijan and Ijevan stop almost at the Sevanavank monastery itself - you only have to walk about 1 km.
In summer, from mid-June to mid-September, trains run from Yerevan to Sevan. The schedule changes every year, the trains themselves are very old, they take a long time, but it's cheap - about 200 AMD one way. Prices on the page are for December 2018.
A taxi from Yerevan to Sevan will cost about 7000 AMD one way, you will spend 1-1.5 hours on the way. For about the same amount, you can rent a taxi for 4-5 hours with a driver who will take you to all the sights of Sevan. Taxi to Sevan can be rented directly from Yerevan airport, it will cost about 9000 AMD one way.
Search for flights to the city of Yerevan (nearest airport to Sevan)
Weather in Sevan
The lake is located high in the mountains, therefore, no matter how hot it is in the valley, it is always cool near Sevan even at an air temperature of about +30 °C. At the same time, the water of the lake warms up to + 18 ... 20 ° C in summer, so you can start swimming. Throughout July and August, the coast of Sevan is filled with vacationers - local residents fleeing the heat, and guests of Armenia. In winter, the climate of Sevan is harsh (by local standards), and in January the lake can completely freeze.
Sevan Hotels
The busiest part of the resort is the peninsula and part of the coast adjacent to the city of Sevan. Most of the hotels are concentrated there, mostly modern hotels of the 3-4-5 * category, almost every one has a restaurant and a swimming pool. The restaurant is a tribute to Armenian hospitality and the pool is a must as the water in the lake is quite cool most of the year.
In summer, during the high season, finding accommodation on the lake can be problematic: not only foreigners, but also locals come here to take a break from the heat in the high mountain coolness. So for the summer it is worth booking a hotel a couple of months in advance. A double room in a 3-star hotel on the lake will cost an average of 50 USD per day, but the price range is quite large - from 30 USD to 100 USD.
On the coast of Sevan there are not only hotels in the classical sense, but also camp sites and recreation areas - from budget, with minimal comfort conditions, to luxury.
If you are traveling with a family or a large company, it will be convenient to rent a house or villa. There are many cottage settlements on the coast of Lake Sevan where you can rent a small house for 20 USD per day, a cottage with two or three bedrooms will cost from 70 USD per day, and prices for villas start from 200 USD per day. Any, even the most budget cottage, will surely have a small area and a barbecue area.
Many Sevan hotels are not represented on popular booking services, so renting something right on the spot is quite real, and if you know how to bargain, it’s also profitable.
Sevan beaches
There are many beaches suitable for swimming on the coast of Lake Sevan. Most of them are sandy, but there are also those covered with small pebbles - basically, these are wild beaches.
Free city beaches are concentrated on the northern and northwestern shores of the lake; most tourists, hotels and restaurants, so this is the most crowded part of the resort. It has all the necessary beach infrastructure: changing cabins, showers, toilets, beach cafes and bars, you can rent an umbrella and a sunbed. It will cost about 5000 AMD, and the entrance to the beaches themselves is free. The shore is sandy and sandy-pebbly, the entrance to the water is gentle, but a little further from the shore there are sharp depressions.
There are also several private beaches here, they usually belong to hotels or are located slightly away from the peninsula. Entrance to the beaches is paid, the price depends on the selected set of services: you can rent a sunbed, as well as a gazebo or a whole beach house.
Wild sandy beaches are worth looking for on the east coast, there are very few tourists here, but there is practically no infrastructure. The west coast is also known for its wild beaches, but here they are mostly rocky. It is here that tourists celebrate the most picturesque views.
Skiing
Sevan as a ski resort is not yet as famous as Tsakhkadzor, but is actively developing in this direction.
There are trails of all levels of difficulty: gently sloping for children and beginners, a 2 km long serpentine and even one long “black” trail 1.2 km long (there is no such long one even in Tsaghkadzor), the elevation difference is up to 400 m. On the mountain slopes of Sevan great opportunities for freeride, has its own ski school. In addition, a cable car with a length of almost 1.2 km operates in the village of Tsovagyukh, at the foot of the Pambak Range, in a place called Mashtotsner.
The school is located in the only Akhtamar hotel in the resort, which is built right on the mountain range, each room offers very beautiful views of the mountains.
One of the main advantages of this ski resort is the price. A ski pass for a day will cost about 5000 AMD, about the same amount as a ski rental.
Shopping in Sevan
In Sevan, you can buy a standard souvenir set from Armenia: national amulets, vases made of wood and semi-precious stones, jewelry, as well as dried fruits, honey and cognac. All this is sold in the shops of the resort's tourist area, next to the Sevanavank monastery.
There are also several markets where you can buy cheese, homemade wine and very cheap fruits and vegetables, but bargaining is a must: it's not so much about saving, but about ritual.
There are few shops in the tourist areas of Sevan, the nearest large supermarkets are located in the cities of Sevan or Hrazdan (about 20 km from Sevan).
Cuisine and restaurants
In Sevan, you should definitely try the local fish (in particular, trout) and crayfish. All this is served literally in every restaurant, almost every one will be delicious, but prices can vary significantly. At the same time, expensive establishments may not easily have chic interiors or service, and in a "rich" outwardly restaurant, prices are sometimes more than affordable.
A portion of barbecue will cost about 4000 AMD in an inexpensive restaurant, and a dinner for two with homemade wine will cost 9000-1000 AMD. Portions in local restaurants are usually large, they can be safely divided into two.
People often come to Sevan to try the famous Sevan trout.
Guides in Sevan
Sights of Sevan
Lake Sevan with its picturesque views and turquoise smooth surface is already a wonderful attraction in itself. But in addition to the picturesque water surface and beaches, there are many interesting things here: ancient monasteries, museums and nature reserves.
Architectural monuments of Sevan
In addition to the lake itself and the mountains surrounding it, the Sevanavank Monastery in the northwest of the lake is considered the most famous attraction on the coast of Sevan. Initially, it was located on an island, but over the years the water level dropped, an isthmus connected the land with the island, and the monastery ended up on a peninsula. The monks who settled here in the 8th century first built a chapel and cells, and a few years later Princess Maryam of Syunik founded a monastery, from which only two temples made of black tuff have survived to this day. The monastery existed until the 16th century. It practically had no walls, but the last monk left here only in the middle of the 20th century. Nowadays, Sevanavank is functioning again, a theological seminary has been opened under it, and it is from the monastery that numerous excursion routes originate.
On the western shore of Lake Sevan there is another monastery - Hayravank, built at about the same time as Sevanavank. The monastery is located on a hill above the lake, offering a beautiful view. Many tourists love it more than the popular Sevanavank, for the absence of crowds of other tourists, souvenir shops and other fuss.
Makenis Monastery is located on the southern shore of the lake. It is not particularly popular among tourists, but it is very important for Armenian culture. It was the Makenis Monastery that played an important role in the spread of writing in Armenia during the early Middle Ages and was at that time one of the key educational and religious centers in the country.
Not far from Lake Sevan and the city of Gavar there is an open-air museum: the medieval cemetery of Noratus, where hundreds of khachkars of the 13th-14th centuries have been preserved - large stone blocks with crosses carved on them.
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Nature
In the vicinity of Lake Sevan, you should definitely climb the mountains to feel the greatness of the “land of extinct volcanoes”. For example, you can climb Ajaak volcano, the highest point of the Geghama Range. A small lake is located in its crater with a radius of 100 m, and from a height of 3600 m an unforgettable view opens - the panorama of the Armenian Highlands. From here you can see Lake Sevan itself, sparkling like an azure mirror, and the jagged top of the highest mountain in Armenia, Aragats, and the whitening peaks of Ararat. At the top of the extinct Armagan volcano(height 2829 m) there is also a small mountain lake, a small chapel, and panoramic views of Sevan and the Geghama mountains also open from here.
Worth a stroll around the area. Sevan National Park with an area of more than 1500 sq. km, with its huge variety of plants and several hundred species of animals. The park is divided into several parts: protected areas, recreation areas and economic areas. The national park includes several reserves with a strict environmental regime. One of the most famous - Norashensky reserve, it is here that the nesting colony of Armenian gulls listed in the Red Book is under protection. They live on the Island of Seagulls, which may soon disappear: the water level in the lake is constantly rising, the island is gradually flooding, and one day rare seagulls will have to look for another shelter.
Leisure
Beaches, volleyball courts, equipment rentals for active recreation are equipped on the shores of Lake Sevan.
Almost all hotels in the resort area of Sevan offer scootering, this is the most popular type of water recreation in these parts. The average rental price is 10,000 AMD for 15 minutes, but you can bargain, especially if you are going to ride for a long time. In addition to scooters, catamarans, water skis and water bikes are also available for rent.
Fishing on Lake Sevan is allowed only in certain places, but all hotels know these places and offer fishing even for free. You will only have to pay for the rental of equipment and the services of a cook if you need to cook the caught fish.
The ship "Kilikia" is another popular attraction on Lake Sevan. This sailing ship is an exact copy of a merchant ship from the time of the Cilician Kingdom, built according to ancient drawings and descriptions in manuscripts. This ship was built for 11 whole years, and during its existence it managed to visit 25 countries of the world, and then it became a full-fledged museum on the water on Lake Sevan. There are guided tours around the ship, where you can learn the history of this ship and the Cilician kingdom, as well as take pictures in the interiors of the ship of the 13th century.
Walking around the city, look among the buildings for the house where the poet Osip Mandelstam lived, and look into the local museum named after the Orbeli brothers. A ski resort is open for both children and adults. V
But also throughout the Caucasus. It is located at an altitude of 1900 meters above sea level, has an area of 1240 square meters. km, fed by tributaries of 28 rivers and is considered the main donor of the complex of hydroelectric power plants of the Sevan-Hrazdan cascade.
Since ancient times, people have settled on the banks of the natural reservoir, realizing that even in difficult times, fresh water will help them survive. In conditions when attacks and sieges by unfriendly neighbors were the norm, Sevan gave strength and hope for the future. The lake keeps many secrets about the fate and events that took place in these places. Today, its shores are covered with numerous villages, and since 1978 the reservoir itself has belonged to the national park of the same name in Armenia.
Rest on Lake Sevan 2019
In the Soviet years, the water body with its picturesque banks was considered an all-Union health resort. Not only representatives of the party nomenclature, but also ordinary citizens came here to relax, improve their health and receive medical treatment. There were sanatoriums and boarding houses, tourist bases and rest houses. Visitors were offered sightseeing tours and one-day itineraries.
An amazing land full of mountain landscapes and historical monuments, famous for its traditional Caucasian cuisine, wines, cognac and genuine hospitality, attracted Soviet people from all over the vast country. There is something to do here even today - horseback, hiking and cycling routes along the shore of the lake, walks around Sevan on the only still working boat that has been preserved from Soviet times, as well as acquaintance with the cultural and architectural heritage. Some tourist bases have been preserved here, but their infrastructure is not at the highest level.
Those who managed to visit Lake Sevan, which is considered one of the symbols of Armenia, recommend a water body for a mandatory visit. Despite the problems associated with lowering the water level, the reservoir remains picturesque and unique. They say that no photo can convey its beauty and unusual emerald colors. The water here is clean and cool even in the heat. But on the beaches in the summer season they sunbathe and even swim.
Features of the reservoir
The lake bowl, surrounded by mountain ranges, was formed as a result of tectonic processes and hardened lavas that formed a dam. The water area of the reservoir is divided into two lakes - Big and Small Sevan. Artanish peninsula and Noratus cape are natural barriers that left a wide channel between them. The first lake is larger, but smaller. Its maximum depth is no more than 28-30 meters. The coastline of Small Sevan is indented with bays, its depth in some places reaches 80 meters. The average depth of the two lakes is about 26 meters.
In addition to the flowing rivers, the reservoir is fed by underground springs. The flow occurs in the Hrazdan River. In the Soviet period, lake water was actively used for the needs of agriculture and industry. The Sevan-Hrazdan cascade, which eventually included eight hydroelectric power stations, has been under construction since 1923.
The water level in Sevan was deliberately reduced. The vacated lands were planned to be used for growing crops necessary for the national economy, but the soil conditions turned out to be unsuitable for such large-scale tasks. Already in the middle of the 20th century, this experiment led to an ecological disaster. The level dropped by 18 m, and the reservoir did not have time to replenish. As a result, the concentration of harmful substances in the water increased. By the end of the last century, the minus mark was 20 m.
The project of 1931 assumed that in 50 years Lake Sevan should have become shallow by 55 meters. In this case, only Small Sevan would remain, and it was planned to plant hazel and oak in the place of the drained Big Sevan.
The completion in the early 2000s of the construction of a number of canal tunnels, designed to transfer fresh water to Lake Sevan from other reservoirs and rivers, helped to improve the situation. The level began to rise slowly and steadily, but this led to new problems. The fact is that people managed to build their houses on the drained coastline. And now the buildings have begun to go under the water. In addition, the highway and railway lines may be in the flood zone.
The coastal territory of Sevan, liberated as a result of water discharges, is artificially planted with sea buckthorn, pines, poplars, etc. trees and shrubs. A little further there are thickets of mountain ash, wild rose and barberry. In places, natural islands of maple, oak and juniper have been preserved.
Name
The toponym is translated as "black monastery". Most likely, this is due to the ancient Sevanavank monastery, the walls of which were built from volcanic tuff, which has a dark color. A religious object appeared on the island of Sevan as early as the 9th century. and has survived to this day. In those days, getting out of it was problematic. According to one of the legends, the guilty monks from the monastery of Etchmiadzin were sent there for correction.
The second version of the translation is associated with Lake Van, located on the Armenian Highlands within the borders of the modern territory of Turkey. There is a mild and warm climate. Ancient Armenians used to say: “There is a paradise in the sky, and on the earth – Lake Van!”. When, as a result of another war, the Armenians had to leave their beloved Van and move to Sevan, they exclaimed angrily: “We got the Black Van!”, i.e. cold and inhospitable.
Lake Sevan throughout its history had different names - Gelamovo, Gegharkunik, Gelam, etc. In ancient sources, it is referred to as the sea.
lake surroundings
The main attraction of the reservoir is the monastery of Sevanavank. It is located on the northwestern shore of the reservoir, near the city of Sevan. The monastery complex was founded and built at the end of the 9th century on a hard-to-reach island, which, as a result of the “drainage” of the lake, turned into a peninsula (cape).
On the western bank of Sevan is the village of Hayravank (Khayaravank), whose history is closely connected with the monastery of the same name built in the 9th century. Nearby rises an ancient fortress. Another Vanevan monastery (X century) is located in the village of Artsvanist.
The village of Noratus is known for the country's largest cemetery of khachkars - stone steles with carved crosses. Similar cemeteries exist in several other villages in the south of Lake Sevan.
After a significant decrease in the water level in the reservoir, archaeologists managed to discover numerous ancient artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age. Today they can be seen in the historical museums of Yerevan.
At the beginning of the 20th century, engineering structures were erected on the banks of Sevan, designed to organize the transportation of passengers and goods by water. Shipping began with small motor boats, but over time motor ships appeared in the water area. The most famous of them is Mikoyan.
The water communication was eliminated due to a decrease in the water level in the lake. Today in Sevan you can see only sailing boats.
In 2012, a sunken ship was discovered at the bottom of the reservoir. One part of it is perfectly preserved, the other is destroyed.
The lake is inhabited by four subspecies of the Sevan trout belonging to the salmon family. This is the main commercial fish of Sevan. You can taste it in almost every local cafe or restaurant.
There is a helipad on the western shore of the lake.
How to get to Lake Sevan
From Yerevan to the city of Sevan, located on the western side of the reservoir, you can get by train number 6531, following the schedule. Next, you will have to use the services of private cabs.
Shuttle taxis depart from the center and from the Yerevan railway station to the city of Sevan. Drivers, as a rule, offer to continue the journey to the lake, in particular, to the Sevanavank monastery for an additional fee. Shuttle taxis also follow from Yerevan in the direction of the city of Dilijan. Their path partially runs along the northwestern coast of the reservoir. You can find out where the transport is going by the sign on the windshield.
It is necessary to leave Yerevan by private car along the M-4 highway. The driving pattern is shown below.
The most popular among travelers is the western coast of Sevan.
The Pearl of Armenia – Lake Sevan: video
Until 1961, Sevan was considered a settlement. After he received the status of the city. Sevan is located northeast of Yerevan, 54 kilometers from the capital. The city stands on the very shore of the famous Lake Sevan.
The city of Sevan is shaped like a kind of amphitheater. The distance between residential buildings, as well as cultural and administrative objects of the city is minimal. In the center there is a city cultural recreation park.
Sevan comes alive in the summer when tourists come from all over the world. And in winter, when the lake freezes and westerly winds blow, a very calm rhythm of life is established here.
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Gegharkunik |
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23,200 people |
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UTC+4, summer UTC+5 |
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Climate and weather
The harsh mountain climate of Sevan is characterized by long winters and cool summers. The city is located at a relatively low latitude, where the same average monthly temperatures prevail as in Karelia and the Leningrad region. Also, the climate is affected by the low location above sea level.
Only at harsh temperatures, from -20 ºС, Lake Sevan can freeze completely - countless springs beat in it.
Strong winds often blow here, humidity is high. From the end of November, snow falls in Sevan and lies until mid-April. And summer here actually lasts only from mid-June to mid-September. The longest season in Sevan is autumn.
Nature
Beach holidays prevail in this area - the city is located on the coast of the largest of the high-altitude lakes. Sevan is a picturesque resort with a huge number of motels, hotels, camp sites, boarding houses and restaurants created for vacationers of different income levels. It is really beautiful here in any weather, but it is best to come to Sevan in summer.
Lake Sevan is of volcanic origin. The local landscape of the area is very attractive - here you have steppes, smoothly turning into alpine meadows, mountains covered with snow peaks, and mountain forests.
The lake is usually divided into two parts - small and large. The depth of Small Sevan reaches 98 meters, Big Sevan - 58 meters. 28 rivers flow into the lake, but only one of them (Hrazdan) flows out of it.
The surface of the water has a fabulous azure color, and it is also so transparent that from above you can see everything that happens in the lake at a depth of 12 meters. In summer, the water temperature in the reservoir reaches from +17 to +24 ºС.
sights
In the city of Sevan, besides the lake itself, there are many more important sights. On the shore of the famous reservoir, on a high rock, is located Hayravank church. No one knows the exact date of its construction, but if we take into account the architectural details, then this building can be attributed to the obelisks of the 9th century. The church was built of roughly hewn stones, its appearance is quite simple, but the temple is surprisingly in harmony with the local nature.
In the northwest of Lake Sevan, a peninsula rises up, on which medieval monasteries built in 874 are located. They were ordered to be erected by Queen Miriam, daughter of Ashot Bagratuni. A combination of a turquoise lake, blue sky and the churches of St. Astvatsatsin (Virgin Mary) and St. Arakelots always makes a special impression on tourists.
Another attraction of the city is Selim Gorge, which for many centuries was the main trade route. Countless camel caravans passed through this gorge, carrying priceless goods, jewelry to the west. All wanderers and animals traveling through this place needed rest, therefore, by order of the local prince, this caravanserai was built. The building is a three-nave structure (that is, it consists of three oblong rooms). It is illuminated only with the help of hatches-holes cut in the roof itself. This method of construction was distinguished by increased safety for travelers. At times it seems that in the mysterious twilight one can hear the hubbub of merchants and wanderers.
A special place in Sevan is Noratus which is considered an open-air museum. The most striking manifestation of medieval Armenian culture is the art of khachkars (stone stelae on which a cross is carved). So in this place hundreds of unique khachkars are collected, among which there are monuments of the XIII-XIV centuries. It is here that you can feel the development of the art of Armenian khachkars in chronological order.
Nutrition
You can eat everywhere in Sevan, you just have to take a good look around. You will definitely see within a radius of 100 meters around you some cafe or restaurant with any choice of cuisine - Georgian, Arabic, European, Armenian, Chinese.
At the restaurant "Ago's" you will be fed with amazingly delicious nettle soup with potatoes. It’s a bit pricey here for the locals, as the restaurant is aimed at guests from Yerevan, but the range of dishes is impressive - fish cakes, whitefish kebab, unforgettable crayfish kebab, which you will remember until old age. "Ago's", like many other establishments of this type, has a large spacious hall. Unusual cabins designed for companies from 4 to 20 guests are noteworthy here. And if the owner of the restaurant (Ago himself) likes you, he will definitely come to your booth with his cognac and chocolate set in order to show his respect.
Residence
Sevan has a huge number of places where you can stay - from hotels of the highest level to the houses of local residents who are always ready to offer their rooms for a symbolic reward.
Located on Lake Sevan Best Western Bohemian Resort. This hotel has very friendly staff. Everyone speaks English. The hotel offers rooms in the form of separate houses on the lake. All of them are spacious and very clean, comfortable and cozy. On the first floor there is a living room and a bathroom, and on the second floor there are two bedrooms. The window offers an impressive view of the monastery and the mountains.
In another hotel, Maria Resort, you can swim in a wonderful pool, next to which there is a cafe-bar. Here you can not only drink delicious cocktails, but also eat. Despite the fact that this is a cafe, they serve very tasty restaurant food.
Entertainment and recreation
For some time, a large football club "Akhtamar" was training in Sevan, which also glorified the whole area.
Sevan is visited by many outdoor enthusiasts to practice beach football and volleyball, surfing and other water sports. There are also water parks for children and their parents, equestrian clubs, mini-football and basketball courts, and tennis courts.
And if you want, you can walk around the Sevan National Park, which was created in 1978 to protect the surrounding nature and the lake.
Purchases
Due to the fact that Sevan is a wonderful resort, here, of course, you can find many shops and shops. This is especially true for souvenirs. Truth. But the prices here will be the same as in other resorts - biting. But what is worth buying in Sevan? Absolutely - local wine and cognac. These are the main souvenirs worth bringing from Armenia.
Transport
M4 passes through Sevan - the highway that connects Tbilisi and Yerevan. The road runs along the shore of the lake on the south and east side of the city.
In addition, the city has a railway station belonging to the line Yerevan—Hrazdan—Sevan—Shorzha—Sotq. Passenger traffic practically does not function in Sevan during the year, but in the summer the electric train runs every day.
Connection
Sevan communication is represented by three main Armenian mobile operators. Having a card of one of them, you can always make a domestic call or make an international call. You can also contact civilization via the Internet, which is offered free of charge by some large hotel complexes, or using mobile communications. By the way, you can also call through a hotel operator who will connect you via an international line. Unfortunately, there are no public telephones in the city.
Safety
Sevan is quite safe. The fact is that this is only a tourist complex, so there is no crime on a large scale. Of course, you can meet cases of petty theft or other minor violations, but there is no significant danger for vacationers here. Local authorities carefully monitor the peace of their guests.
Business climate
On the territory of the city there are dozens of factories that were built in the Soviet era. But only a few of them are in modern operation.
In Sevan there is an Industrial-Technological College, which enrolls people from all over the country.
Unfortunately, the regional and city economy is not as strong as in the capital. People don't want to work in factories, moreover, more and more people are leaving these places.
In Sevan, all the staff are Armenians. So you should honor and observe the laws and customs of Armenia. The first thing you need to know is that Armenians honor the cult of their homeland. For them, this is sacred, so any disparaging statement about their country or city will be perceived with hostility. It is the same with regard to women, here they are revered especially strongly. Don't insult women and you won't have any problems.
In local hotels or any other homes, it is perfectly normal (and even healthy) to drink water from the tap. And this is not surprising - water in Armenia is taken exclusively from mineral and artesian sources. By the way, if you see a pulpulak (a kind of water source a meter high) on the streets, you can also absolutely calmly drink from it, it's completely free.