One of my favorite “escapes” is a creative retreat. I try to go on one at least 3 times a year. They are a way for me to refresh my perspective. I find them not only peaceful, but also productive. For me they are a form of “active rest.” On creative retreats, I make sure to take everything in with all of my senses. I want to make sure that I really brand the memories of the place into my mind. I practice being truly present and in the moment. I get filled up with all of this creative energy to then pour it back into my work when I get home. For me, Dilijan is the perfect creative retreat. From gorgeous natural landscapes, to captivating monasteries, to charming ancient architecture there is a little something for everyone to be inspired by. Dilijan is one of those places that is beautiful all year long, but I love going in the spring to see all of the wildflowers bloom.
There are so many great hikes in Dilijan that are very easy to do, but have beautiful views all along the way. One of my favorite hikes in Dilijan is in the Dilijan National Park. It is one of the most densely forested areas in Armenia. There are moments that you are engulfed by all of the trees and then you pop out to rolling hills with wild flowers abundantly sprinkled throughout. There is another popular hike in this area that connects Lake Parz to Lake Gosh which are both great resting spots.
Lake Parz is a small lake in the Dilijan National Forest surrounded by giant hanging green trees. I like to take a walk by myself around this lake stopping at various points to take it all in. To me being around a body of water is very relaxing. I like to listen to the sounds of birds chirping and bees buzzing as I watch people paddle across the lake. It is the perfect place to daydream.
Armenia is filled with lots of ancient monasteries. In fact it is estimated that there are 4,000 monasteries all throughout the country. One of my favorite monasteries in particular is Haghartsin. It is surrounded by forests on all sides so you feel like you are enclosed. The monastery has been destroyed and rebuilt many times due to enemy invasions and earthquakes. However, it is currently still standing thanks to the recent renovations in 2010. I love walking through the grounds to see every detail. Right next to the monastery there is a small honey shop that is made by the monastery. My absolute favorite honey in the whole world is sold there. The honey is a fluffy texture and a beautiful ivory white color. It tastes more like marshmallow whip than honey which takes me back to being a kid. I also pick up a couple jars to bring home whenever I am there. What is more beautiful than buying locally produced honey from a monastery in the forest?
There is so much more than even the things that I listed to see and do in Dilijan, but I wanted to give you a taste so that you crave to see more.
