Berd Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see and do in Berd, Armenia. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and more, plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Berd

Nestled in northern Armenia, Berd is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. It is a relatively small town but rich in history and culture. Berd is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking. The town is also home to several museums and historical landmarks, showcasing the unique culture and heritage of the region.

In this comprehensive travel guide to Berd, we will provide you with everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and more, read on to discover the best things to see and do in Berd, Armenia.

List of Places to Visit in Berd

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Berd is home to several museums and historical places that showcase the region’s unique culture and heritage. Some of the top cultural attractions to visit in Berd include:

  • Berd Museum of Regional Studies: This museum offers a comprehensive collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that illustrate the history and culture of the region.
  • Church of the Holy Mother of God: A beautiful 18th-century cathedral that offers a glimpse into the town’s religious history.
  • Akhuryan Historical-Cultural Museum-Reserve: Located just outside the town, this museum offers both indoor and outdoor exhibits about the region’s unique geological, ecological, and cultural features.

Natural Attractions of Berd: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

In addition to its cultural attractions, Berd offers an abundance of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Some of the top natural attractions to explore in Berd include:

  • Lake Kari: A picturesque lake located high in the mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Mount Aragats: The highest peak in Armenia, offering challenging hiking trails and breathtaking views.
  • Gosh Lake: A peaceful lake surrounded by lush green forests, offering opportunities for fishing and other outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Berd

For hiking and biking enthusiasts, Berd offers a wide variety of trails to explore. Some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in Berd include:

  • Mount Aragats Summit Trail: A challenging hike that takes you to the summit of Mount Aragats, the highest peak in Armenia.
  • Berd-Ashotsk hiking trail: A moderate hike that takes you through the beautiful natural scenery surrounding Berd, including the Akhuryan Gorge.
  • Berd-Goshavank biking trail: A scenic biking route that takes you through the lush forests and past the beautiful Gosh Lake.

Best Things to Do in Berd: Activities and Tours

Aside from exploring the town’s cultural and natural attractions, there are several other things to see and do in Berd. Some of the top activities and tours to consider include:

  • Horseback Riding: Take a horseback riding tour through the scenic landscapes surrounding Berd.
  • Culinary Tours: Explore the town’s food scene with a culinary tour, experiencing traditional Armenian dishes and learning about the local cuisine.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Berd offers a wide range of outdoor adventures, including rock climbing, skiing, and camping.
  • Wine Tasting: Armenia is known for its world-class wine, and Berd is no exception. Take a wine tasting tour and sample local varietals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Berd

Day 1: Visit the Berd Museum of Regional Studies and the Church of the Holy Mother of God. Day 2: Hike the Berd-Ashotsk hiking trail. Day 3: Explore the Akhuryan Historical-Cultural Museum-Reserve. Day 4: Take a horseback riding tour through the scenic landscapes surrounding Berd. Day 5: Visit Lake Kari and enjoy a picnic lunch. Day 6: Take a wine tasting tour and sample local varietals. Day 7: Explore the Goshavank Monastery and take the Berd-Goshavank biking trail.

Food and Drink Scene of Berd

Must-Try Dishes

Armenian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and use of fresh, local ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes in Berd include:

  • Khorovats: Armenian barbecue, featuring skewered meat cooked over an open flame.
  • Harissa: A hearty stew made with wheat and chicken, seasoned with cinnamon and other spices.
  • Khash: A traditional Armenian soup made with cow’s feet.

Local Beverages

Armenia is known for its world-class wine and brandy. Some of the best local beverages to sample in Berd include:

  • Armenian Wine: Made from local grape varietals, Armenian wine is known for its bold, complex flavors.
  • Armenian Brandy: Considered to be some of the best brandy in the world, Armenian brandy is aged in oak barrels for several years, resulting in a smooth, velvety texture.

Where to Stay in Berd: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Berd offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and travel style. Some of the top places to stay in Berd include:

  • Hotel Mihran:
  • Guesthouse Narek:
  • Berd Hotel:
  • BerdGuest House:

What to Buy in Berd: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are several unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from Berd. Some of the top items to consider include:

  • Armenian Carpet: Handmade carpets are a traditional craft in Armenia, and make for a beautiful and unique souvenir.
  • Sujukh: A candy made with walnuts and grape molasses, sujukh is a popular local treat.
  • Armenian Brandy: Bring home a bottle of locally-produced Armenian brandy to enjoy at home.

Local Culture and Customs of Berd

Armenia is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and Berd is no exception. Visitors to Berd should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Remove shoes when entering homes or certain businesses.
  • Avoid discussing politics or religion unless invited to do so.
  • Always accept food and drink when offered by locals.

Best Time to Visit Berd

The best time to visit Berd depends on your travel style and preferences. The summer months (June-August) offer the warmest temperatures and the most opportunities for outdoor activities. However, the fall (September-November) is a beautiful time to visit, with colorful foliage and cooler temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Berd

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and traditional dishes.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  • Engage with locals and learn more about their culture and way of life.

Don’t:

  • Discuss politics or religion unless invited to do so.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Bargain too aggressively when shopping in local markets.
  • Visit religious sites without removing shoes when required.

Safety and Health

Safety in Berd

Berd is a relatively safe town, but visitors should still take general safety precautions, including:

  • Keep valuables out of sight and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Take precautions when hiking or biking to avoid injuries and accidents.
  • Keep emergency contact information on you at all times.

Health in Berd

Visitors to Berd should take precautions to stay healthy during their stay, including:

  • Drinking bottled water to avoid the risk of stomach upset.
  • Avoiding unpasteurized dairy products.
  • Taking precautions to avoid tick bites during outdoor activities.

Getting to Berd: Transportation Options and Logistics

Berd is located approximately 200 km from Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. Visitors to Berd can get to the town by several means of transportation, including:

Airports Near Berd

The nearest airport to Berd is Zvartnots International Airport, located in Yerevan.

Bus Stations Near Berd

There are several bus stations in Yerevan that offer regular service to Berd.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private driver to get to Berd from Yerevan.

How to Get Around in Berd

Berd is a relatively small town that can be easily explored on foot. Visitors can also rent bikes or hire a car to explore the surrounding areas more comfortably.

Where to Go Next from Berd: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider as part of your trip to Berd, including:

  • Lake Sevan: Located just two hours from Berd, Lake Sevan is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Ijevan: A charming town known for its traditional crafts and outdoor activities.
  • Dilijan: A picturesque mountain town with several museums and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Berd is a hidden gem waiting to be explored in Northern Armenia. With its rich culture, natural beauty, and abundance of outdoor activities, this charming town has something to offer for every traveler. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your perfect trip to Berd and start exploring this unique and beautiful region today.

Khoranashat Monastery Khoranashat Monastery