Looking for an adventure-packed weekend getaway in Armenia? You are sure to find it in Tsaghkadzor, a charming resort town that offers various activities regardless of the season. If you wonder what tourists can do in Tsaghkadzor, we will help you.
First of all, the town is known as Armenia’s number-one mountain resort. Ski slopes and a ropeway are the signature places attracting tourists all year round. However, if you are not an adrenaline seeker and are looking for peaceful moments, this destination has it all.
Although it’s a small town, Tsakhkadzor has a good infrastructure and many activities. State-of-the-art cafes and restaurants will definitely be an impressive experience. Here are must-do activities to make the most of your weekend escape.
Best Time to Visit Tsaghkadzor
The best time to visit Tsaghkadzor depends on your preferences. This picturesque mountain town offers something for every season. Winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, with pristine slopes and thrilling winter sports activities. However, it has been less snow during the recent winters. So, before packing your ski equipment check the weather. Sometimes there is not that much snow in early December.
It’s fair to say that Tsaghkadzor’s charm extends beyond winter. Spring, summer, and fall months are the best to enjoy nature in the mountains. It’s an ideal place for hiking, picnics, and exploring the surrounding trails. Take the ropeway in the fall to see the vivid colors of forests.
Winter Activities in Tsaghkadzor
The resort town has been a magnet for winter sports enthusiasts since Soviet times. It draws tourists and locals eager to embrace the snowy adventures. With its world-class skiing slopes and a ropeway, Tsakhkadzor fits both seasoned professionals and beginners.
The resort’s modern ropeway provides access to ski slopes and breathtaking views of Lake Sevan from the mountain peaks. For those traveling light, equipment rental is conveniently available on-site. In general, the skiing season normally starts in mid-December. It’s possible to ski, snowboard, and ride on snowmobiles here.
The ropeway has been working here since the 1960s. It has been updated and now is functioning year-round. The stations have a café to have a rest in the lap of nature. The highest peak where the ropeway can take you in around 30 minutes is at a height of 2819 meters.
Kecharis Monastery
Those having experience traveling in Armenia are aware of its medieval monasteries scattered around the country. Tsaghkadzor is not an exception with Kecharis Monastery holding centuries of Armenian history within its ancient walls.
Dating back to the 11th to 13th centuries, this medieval complex was founded by a Pahlavuni prince and later expanded under the patronage of the Proshyan family.
Moreover, it used to be a prominent religious and educational center. The complex consists of three churches, two chapels, and a congressional room. Here you can find intricate stone carvings and medieval khachkars. When touring the churchyard, tourists can see many graves which were probably family burial vaults. Despite facing destruction during the invasions, Kecharis has been restored and is a functioning church now.
Zip Line in Tsaghkadzor for Extreme Lovers
Once adrenaline junkies are done with snowboarding and skiing, they can shift to a zipline. Tsakhkadzor’s zipline is a must-try experience offering a journey through stunning natural landscapes.
Extreme lovers can soar in the air for 5 minutes at a height of 130 meters. It’s a great chance to have an unforgettable experience of flying amidst the breathtaking scenery. So, if you are not afraid of heights, make memories that will leave you breathless with excitement!
Hiking in Tsaghkadzor
A weekend in Tsakhkadzor is a great chance to get a refreshing escape from the summer heat of Yerevan. Spring and summer are the best time for hiking adventures. There are some trails starting from Tsakhkadzor. One of the popular ones leads through mountains and forests towards Ttujur mineral springs and Bjni.
When taking hiking trails here you can encounter the ruins of the medieval fortress of Bjni. Constructed in the 9th to 10th century by the Pahlavuni family, it has a strategic position overlooking the surrounding landscape.
Hotels and Restaurants in Tsaghkadzor
The resort town offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s preferences. From cozy guesthouses to luxurious resorts like Marriott where you can enjoy a pool and a spa center. However, we recommend also considering small houses you can find here for rent. They usually have all the amenities, and you can fully enjoy the views of the morning breeze and snow-covered mountains.
In addition to accommodation, Tsakhkadzor boasts a variety of restaurants and cafes, many offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The Armenian and European cuisine – there are dining options for any tourist.
Tsakhkadzor is a part of many classic tours of Armenia, especially for those seeking winter activities. Levon Travel is your best pick as it is offering the best itineraries and experienced tour guides.
