Why This Tavush Province Town Should Be on Your Travel List
Tucked away in northeastern Armenia, 137 kilometers from Yerevan, lies Ijevan—a town that perfectly captures the essence of Armenian mountain life. At 755 meters above sea level, this provincial capital of Tavush offers visitors something increasingly rare: authentic nature, rich history, and genuine local culture, all without the crowds.
A Town Born from Caravans
The name Ijevan itself tells a story. Meaning “inn” in Armenian, it harks back to the town’s days as a vital rest stop on the ancient trade route between Syria and the North Caucasus. Merchants and their caravans would pause here, finding shelter and refreshment in the valley of the Aghstev River. Today’s travelers continue this tradition, discovering Ijevan as a welcome escape from city life.
Nature’s Playground
What sets Ijevan apart is its setting. The Gugark Mountains embrace the town, their slopes covered in thick forests that transition to alpine meadows at higher elevations. This isn’t the manicured, tourist-friendly nature of developed resorts—this is raw, authentic Armenian wilderness. Hiking trails wind through the forests, leading to hidden waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints that few tourists ever see.
The air here is different. At this altitude, every breath feels cleaner, fresher. Locals will tell you that Ijevan’s mountain air has healing properties, and after a few days here, you might just believe them.
Sacred Stones and Ancient Monasteries
History buffs will find plenty to explore. Within a 15-kilometer radius, you’ll discover:
- Makaravank Monastery (10th century): Built from purple and green stone, this forest-hidden complex is a photographer’s dream
- Surp Hovhannes Church (13th century): Located just west of town
- Arakelots Monastery of Kirants (13th century): A testament to medieval Armenian architecture
These aren’t reconstructed tourist attractions—they’re living monuments where you can feel the weight of centuries.
Taste the Tradition
Ijevan has been producing wine and brandy since 1951, when the Ijevan Wine-Brandy Factory first opened its doors. A visit to taste local spirits offers insight into Armenian traditions and craftsmanship. The region’s cuisine also reflects its mountain character—hearty, flavorful, and made with ingredients that actually come from nearby farms.
Where to Stay: Dan Resort
For visitors seeking an immersive mountain experience, Dan Resort offers something truly unique. Located in the Ijevan area, this 2022-opened retreat takes the concept of mountain hospitality to a new level. Completely nestled within the forest, Dan Resort doesn’t just offer views of nature—you’re living in it.
The resort’s design tells a story. A ship structure representing Noah’s Ark, pyramid-shaped cottages symbolizing Mount Ararat’s twin peaks (Sis and Masis), and a Christ statue at the summit create an atmosphere where biblical heritage meets natural beauty. Open-air pavilions scattered throughout the property let you dine, relax, or celebrate under the forest canopy.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or even a destination wedding or corporate retreat, Dan Resort provides a base camp for exploring Ijevan while offering its own unique experience. The combination of symbolic architecture and pristine forest creates a setting you won’t find anywhere else in Armenia.
Getting There
Ijevan sits right on the Yerevan-Tbilisi highway, making it easily accessible whether you’re coming from Armenia’s capital or crossing from Georgia. The 137-kilometer drive from Yerevan takes about two hours, with mountain scenery improving with every kilometer.
Why Visit Now
With a population of just under 19,000, Ijevan remains refreshingly authentic. It hasn’t been overrun by tour buses or transformed into a sanitized tourist attraction. It’s a real town where real people live real mountain lives—and they’re happy to share it with curious visitors.
As more travelers discover Armenia beyond Yerevan and Lake Sevan, Ijevan is emerging as a destination for those seeking something deeper than standard tourism. Come for the monasteries, stay for the mountains, and leave with a different understanding of what Armenian beauty really means.
Ready to explore? Ijevan is waiting.
