Waterfall Town

The Jermuk Waterfall drops 70 metres into the Arpa River gorge — the natural centrepiece of the town. The water splits into dozens of thin streams that slide down the cliff like strands of hair, inspiring its local nickname "the Mermaid's Hair waterfall".

According to legend, a water maiden once lived here and fell in love with a mortal. When she was forbidden to see him, she chose to disappear into the rock, and only her long hair remained, flowing forever as the waterfall.

The waterfall lies in a narrow gorge just below the spa town of Jermuk. Above are sanatoriums, hot springs and parks — below, the landscape suddenly becomes wild, with steep cliffs and the Arpa River rushing through the canyon. From the bridge and viewpoints you get impressive angles of both the falls and the gorge.

A visit to Jermuk works best as a mix of wellness and nature — spend time in the spa, taste the mineral waters at the gallery, and then walk down to the waterfall to feel cool mist on your face. It is one of those places where being there — listening to the water and feeling the scale of the cliff — leaves a much stronger impression than any photo.

What to Do

Walk to the waterfall, drink mineral water straight from the springs, try spa treatments, stroll the gorge promenade and explore Jermuk town and its surroundings.

How to Get There

About 170 km from Yerevan via the M2 highway toward Vayk, then follow the signs to Jermuk.