23 November 2024

Armenia Travelogue — Yerevan, Monasteries & Hidden Treasures

Hot air balloon over Yerevan: one hour, up to 2,000 meters
Cascades: 118 meters tall stair complex with escalators inside
Zipline under the bridge: Start at 123 meters, 870 meters long
Garni is located about 23 kilometers outside of Yerevan.
Chess is a separate school subject in Armenia.

Contents of this post4 chapters

1Yerevan
2Garni
3Next stop: Back to Camperlife! 🤙
4Frequently Asked Questions

The 🔝 Highlights from Armenia

Yerevan

The International Hot Air Balloon Festival

On the Republic Square, early in the morning on October 14th, hot air balloonists from all over the world gathered 🗺. I had been looking forward to this day for weeks. At half past seven, it was finally time. The Brazilian hot air balloonist was already waiting for our arrival. In total, there were five of us, standing shoulder to shoulder. Shortly after, not only did the balloon rise, but so did our excitement 😁. It felt somewhat insecure. "So helpless, so unpredictable." Max even said he found it worse than paragliding 😯. But for me, it was the opposite. In the first half-hour, we ascended up to 2000 meters and enjoyed the incredible panoramic view 🥰. Then I felt nauseous for five minutes, and luckily I felt better afterwards 🤮 🤣. I don't usually have a fear of heights, but even for me, that was pretty high 😂! (By the way, the ride lasted an hour).

An experience that will probably stay in my memory forever. ✨

Cascade Complex 😎

One of the most beautiful viewpoints over the city of Yerevan is probably the 118-meter-high staircase complex, the Cascade. Don't worry: There are enough escalators available that slowly take you up through the interior of the Cascade 😁. Meanwhile, you can admire the artful exhibits and make a stop on the outdoor terrace at each level. ☺️

Mother Armenia Complex 🙂

In Victory Park, you'll find the "Mother Armenia" monument, which consists of a mausoleum, military museum, and a large statue. 🤗

From there, you also get another impressive view over the city! 😇

Modern Art Museum 🎨

In Mashtots Avenue, you'll find the modern art museum, where you can find various paintings and some statues. The artworks are truly impressive, allowing your imagination to run wild. 🎭

Opening 🛍️

A paradise for all souvenir buyers and shopping enthusiasts. ❤️

Here you'll find a good mix of knick-knacks and high-quality craftsmanship! At some stands, you can even see how the chessboards are made. Did you know that chess is a separate subject in Armenian schools? ♟️

Dancing Fountains 💦

In the evening, you'll find illuminated water fountains at Republic Square, presenting their water display with diverse music and changing colors 😯. Additionally, you'll have a view of the Marriott Hotel, the Post Office, the Government Building with Clock Tower, and former buildings of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 🥰

Freedom Square 📸

At this city square, you'll find the Opera and Ballet Theater. It's the most important and largest music theater! 🎶

Also, a cool spot to zip around in an electric car 🤙.

Yerevan Zipline Airlines 🙌

A zipline that runs directly under the bridge! 😱

The first route starts at a height of 123 meters and is 870 meters long. The second one is slightly shorter, only 650 meters in length. You don't really need to worry about much since the track has an automatic stop system installed. That's why it was pretty easy. The only important thing is to ensure that the minimum weight is met, so you don't get stuck halfway 🤣.

Max and I rode together, which was pretty cool! 💨

Garni

The Symphony of Stones, Garni Gorge

This majestic natural monument is only about 23km away from the capital and is truly admirable! ✨

This majestic natural monument is located only about 23km from the capital and is truly awe-inspiring! ✨

Next stop: Back to Camperlife! 🤙

Frequently Asked Questions

How high and for how long does the hot air balloon fly in Yerevan?

We climbed to 2,000 meters in the first half hour; the entire trip took an hour. I felt nauseous for five minutes, even though I'm not usually afraid of heights. Max found it even more unpleasant than paragliding.

Do I have to run up the cascades?

No. The stairwell is 118 meters high, but there are plenty of escalators inside to get you up. Along the way, you'll see exhibits and can step outside on each floor.

How does the zipline in Yerevan work?

It runs directly under the bridge. The first section starts at a height of 123 meters and is 870 meters long, the second 650 meters. An automatic stopping system makes it easy—the only important thing is the minimum weight, otherwise you'll stop halfway through. We rode as a pair.

What is worth visiting outside of Yerevan?

Garni with the Symphony of Stones in the Garni Gorge. The natural monument is located only about 23 kilometers from the capital.

About the author

Janet Dannehl

Travel Creator · Visual Storyteller · Camera Producer

Since over 8 years as a Travel Creator with over over 2.4 million followers on Instagram and YouTube. Specializing in authentic visual storytelling, luxury hotel campaigns, and collaborations with tourism boards from 60+ countries.

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