by Anush Bichakchyan
The Caucasian mountains amaze with their greatness. The beauty of nature has inspired many poets and artists, but the mountains are not only about snow-capped peaks, but also dense forests, crystal clear lakes and rivers. Today we would like to represent you the top 6 beautiful lakes of Armenia and Georgia, which are considered popular attractions in this region.
Lake Sevan, Armenia
Lake Sevan [TOP PHOTO] is considered the largest freshwater lake in the CIS. On one side the lake is surrounded by the Geghama Range. The mountain lake covers an area of ??1416 square kilometers and is located at an altitude of 1916 meters above sea level.
The lake is located in the “Sevan” national park and reserve, which has an important ecological value for the country. Sevan and surrounding mountains annually attract a huge number of tourists. For fans of active sports, trekking and hiking tours are organized around Armenia including Sevan and the surrounding mountains.
Sevan has so many attractions like the Ajakaak volcano, the monastery of Sevanavank on the peninsula, the khachkar cemetery and much more. Be sure to try the local delicacy, trout and whitefish BBQ. The tasting of the local fish of Sevan is one of the most important moments of the gastronomic tours in Armenia.
The beauty of Lake Sevan has been described many times, and standing on the shore of a mountain lake it’s hard not to think about romance. The blue waters of Sevan touch the horizon creating a whole palette of blue.
Lake Parz, Armenia
In the paradise of Armenia, in the resort town of Dilijan there is another pearl of Armenia. Lake Parz is located in the north-east of Dilijan. It is surrounded by trees, which, reflected in clear mirror waters, create 3D reality.
Lake Parz and the area are ideal for horse riding and hiking. In a secluded place you can completely relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Not far from Lake Parz there are the main attractions of the area, the monastic complexes of Haghartsin and Goshavank. Be sure to spend time in Dilijan and feel the vitalizing effect of the local climate of pine forests.
Lake Arpi, Armenia
Mountainous Lake Arpi is located in the north-east of the country, on the Ashok Plateau, in the Shirak region, at an altitude of 2015 m above sea level. From the lake the river Arpi begins. The climate of the area is quite severe, and the lake freezes during the winter months.
To preserve the natural beauty of the lake and the territory, the “Lake Arpi” National Park was opened. More than 255 animals, 10 of which are listed in the Red Book live in the park.
The lake and the whole area are ideal for ecotourism and trekking. The best time of the year to visit the lake is the summer months.
Lake Paravani, Georgia
The largest lake in Georgia Paravani is located in the south of the country, in Samtskhe-Javakheti, at an altitude of 2,073 meters above sea level. The lake covers an area of ??37.5 square meters. The maximum depth is 3.3 meters. The unique nature of the area has turned the lake into a popular attraction, but it must be taken into account that the climate of the area is rather severe and starting from the second half of the autumn to spring the mountain lake freezes.
Turtle Lake, Georgia
The most popular lake among the locals and tourists is the Turtle Lake, which can be considered a place of entertainment rather than a natural attraction. The lake is located in Vake-Saburtalo district, Tbilisi, at an altitude of 700 m above sea level. A huge number of turtles lived in the waters of the lake this is why the reservoir got its name. It is surrounded by dense forests, and the beaches are comfortably arranged for a family holiday.
In the summer months, Turtle Lake is a favorite place for Tbilisi residents and guests. To attract more tourists, routes for trekking along the ridge were opened.
Lake Kvareli, Georgia
Lake Kvareli is located in the wine region of Georgia – Kakheti, which is popular for its fertile vineyards and beautiful nature. It seems that the lake Kvareli is “created” to enjoy the sunset and silence sitting on the beach with a glass of wine.
From all sides the lake is surrounded by dense forests and mountains, and the air is crystal clear, one of the most luxurious hotels in Georgia, Kvareli Lake Resort is located on the shore of lake. The windows face the lake, and mornings – even Monday mornings – are always pleasant here.
If You Go:
If you are planning to visit Armenia, you can get some useful information on the Travel Armenia website where you can organize tours about the most popular sights of Armenia.
For an unforgettable rest in lake Sevan make sure to book a room in best hotels of Sevan: Hotel Complex “Harsnaqar” and Bohemian Resort.
Plan your trip to Georgia beforehand with useful advice and ready-to-go tours to popular attractions with the help of My Geo.
To book a room in Kvareli Lake Resort on the banks of the lake you can visit their official website.
Kakheti One Day Tour: Telavi-Kvareli-Signagi and Wine Tasting
About the author:
Anush Bichakchyan is a freelance writer from Armenia with the passion to travel the world and see all the wonders. She enjoys traveling but never forgets to go back to her motherland. She loves to write about Armenia and Georgia and talk about the treasures of ancient countries.
All Photos by Anush Bichakchyan
