Walks Around Lake Sevan

What to Expect

Sevan has no organised city walking tours. The walks are self-guided and short, and they sit on a spread-out shoreline rather than in a walkable town centre. Sevan town lies about 3 km from the water, so most walkers start from the peninsula car park, the Noratus village or a lakeside stop reached by car or taxi.

Sevanavank and the Peninsula

The best-known walk is the climb from the car park to the churches: about 200 stone steps, uneven and in places without railings. Leave time at the top for the two churches and the view over the lake. Mapping sites list a hiking trail on the peninsula, though its length is not marked. Keep to clear footpaths, wear shoes with grip and bring a windproof layer. The site is free, open daily in daylight hours, and an active place of worship, so cover shoulders and knees. Read more: Sightseeing around Sevan .

Noratus Cemetery Walk

Noratus is the gentlest walk near the lake. The ground is flat and grassy, and a loop among the khachkars suits all ages. Several hundred to almost a thousand carved stones stand across about 7 ha, with the oldest from the late 10th century. Informal local guides may offer to explain the carvings. Walk quietly, stay on the paths and never climb on the stones. The village church beside the cemetery is still in use.

Mount Artanish

Artanish is a hill near Shoghakat, formerly called Shorzha, on the north-east shore. It is a hiking hill with a viewpoint over the whole lake. Go in clear weather, carry water and start early, since the lake sits at about 1,900 m and winds rise quickly.

In Dilijan

Dilijan, about 37 km from Sevan by road, has more walking than the lake. Old Dilijan has Sharambeyan Street, and the trail from Parz Lake to Goshavank is about 6.5 km on foot according to hiking guides. These suit a day trip or an overnight stay. Dilijan lies outside the UK warning areas, but never take the road between Ijevan and Noyemberyan.

Practical Tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes, since steps and paths are uneven.
  • Bring layers and a hat; wind and strong sun are both usual at altitude.
  • Carry water for the hill walks.
  • Keep children close on the steps and near the water on gusty days.

Getting There

The M4 drive from Yerevan is 65 km, taking 1 to 1.5 hours. Marshrutkas to Sevan town take about 45 minutes to 1 hour 15, with timetables on t-armenia.com . A taxi covers the last stretch to the peninsula.

Find guided walking options on GetYourGuide .