If your aim is elevation gain, the hike up to Mt. Apakeqar in Dilijan National Park will certainly make you feel the strain! The views from the top are well worth it though.  

Starting from the M4 highway and going through the village of Hovk, you have a short but sweet hike to the peak of Apakeqar (1,651 meters). The trail is calculated one-way so remember that you have to come back down 5km!

The name Apakeqar comes from the Armenian words “apaki” meaning glass, and “qar” meaning rock. Once at the top, you’ll be able to enjoy a panoramic vista over the park. From there you can either walk the 5km back to Hovk, one of the highest settlements of the park, and stop by Lake Kari along the way, ideal for cooling off and watching the sunset. Or, you can continue to the other side of the mountain and on to the village of Haghartsin, 4.5km away. Don’t be surprised if you run into some locals celebrating life over a barbecue and homemade fruit brandy you may even be offered a victory toast for completing the hike!