Nature

Lake Arpi is Armenia's largest highland wetland and a designated national park, spread across the open Shirak plateau near the border with Georgia. There are no big resorts or party beaches here — just water, wide skies, small villages and the feeling that you are very far from city noise.

The lake and its surroundings form an important habitat for birds. In spring and summer you can see many species nesting and feeding around the wetlands, while in autumn it becomes a stopover for migrating flocks. For anyone interested in birdwatching — or simply in watching the sky — Lake Arpi is a rewarding place to be.

A visit to Lake Arpi is more about escape than activity. Walk along the shore, sit in the grass, listen to the wind and birds and watch the light change on the water. If you want to see a different, less-visited side of Armenia — honest, understated and peaceful — this is an excellent place to add to your route.

What to Do

Birdwatching, lakeside walks, highland wetland photography, visit Amasia village nearby, and combine with a trip to Gyumri.

How to Get There

About 40 km from Gyumri by car. From Amasia village it is roughly 5 km further toward the lake.